Velana International Airport
International airport · Malé ·

Velana International Airport

International airport · Malé ·

Maldives main hub with seaplane terminal; new terminal improves arrivals

modern design
clean surroundings
well organized
spacious
limited food options
no staff
overcrowding
basic amenities
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null
Velana International Airport by null

Information

Airport Main Rd, 22000, Maldives Get directions

Restroom
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom

Information

Static Map

Airport Main Rd, 22000, Maldives Get directions

+960 332 3506
@macl.aero
𝕏
@VelanaAirport

Features

•Restroom
•Wheelchair accessible entrance
•Wheelchair accessible parking lot
•Wheelchair accessible restroom

Last updated

Jan 28, 2026

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How to Plan a Trip to the Maldives

"Arriving at Velana International Airport, which is set to unveil an expansion at the end of the year, you’ll see resort representatives holding plaques in the arrivals terminal who will escort you to your transfer — either the domestic terminal for a plane transfer, a speedboat directly to your resort, or the seaplane terminal — and the resort rep will take care of the logistics so all you have to do is follow them." - Katie Lockhart Katie Lockhart Katie is a travel and food journalist specializing in luxury brands and hotels. She has been writing and traveling the world full-time for more than four years. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/maldives-travel-guide-8667041
Velana International Airport

Darius R.

Google
Arrival: Quick and efficient. The restrooms were clean, but a bit pushy with the showers. Exit was quick! Departure: Few active security checkpoints, but it went smoothly. Interesting shops, reasonable prices. Nice souvenirs from the Maldives to buy. I think I counted three smoking areas. KFC and two other buffets on site, plus two cafes. The Wi-Fi was average. Boarding ok!

Darshana H.

Google
Velana International Airport Terminal 2 is awesome! It has newly opened and is truly next-level. I’m really happy with the experience so far. The environment and overall atmosphere are very good—modern, clean, and well designed. However, the immigration system still needs improvement. There is a lot of crowding, and the queues move very slowly. If this can be managed better, it would greatly improve the arrival experience. Compared to many South Asian airports, this terminal definitely ranks among the top. Great job overall!

Pranit P.

Google
Landing at Velana International Airport (Malé) immediately rewards you with a breathtaking panorama of serene turquoise waters. The moment you step out, the crystal-clear lagoon surrounding the airport feels straight out of a postcard—an iconic Maldivian welcome that sets the tone for your entire trip. While the airport is functional and fairly easy to navigate, it’s important to note that the terminal is only partially air-conditioned. Certain waiting areas can feel quite warm and humid, especially during peak hours, which may make the experience slightly sweaty. Inside the arrival zone, you’ll find snack corners, currency-exchange booths, and SIM card counters, but prices here are significantly higher than market rates. If possible, it’s wiser to exchange a small amount or buy essentials on the local islands for better value. For onward journeys, the airport offers dedicated counters for speedboat transfers to local islands as well as private island resort counters, making it convenient to arrange transportation immediately after landing.

chris

Google
Velana International Airport is a great airport. Everyone is extremely friendly, and the facilities are very clean and well maintained. The lounge is excellent, offering a comfortable atmosphere with a wide selection of tasty food. Beverages are readily available, with a good variety to choose from, which makes the overall experience even more enjoyable.

Mike

Google
This airport is at best practical. It’s functional and meets the needs of travellers to pass through it The amenities are basic and kept generally clean The facilities are tired and worn - in the outside area’s mostly chaotic and mange to get you where your going It’s the chaos that worries you with bags and people- it. An be hot and overwhelming Take a breath and watch your luggage - be organised and have a plan - best to be on your guard

Kavindu S.

Google
This new international airport is truly impressive! Modern design, clean surroundings, and a well organized layout. It’s not just an airport , it’s a beautiful, welcoming gateway to the country. Great work!

Husam K.

Google
The Maldives International Airport is well-organized, clean, and very easy to navigate. Immigration and baggage handling were smooth, and the staff were welcoming and helpful. The seaplane and speedboat connections are also efficiently arranged directly from the airport. However, the best experience comes when your arrival and departure are coordinated in advance with a trusted travel agency or your resort. This makes the transfers seamless and saves a lot of time, especially during busy hours. Overall, a very pleasant and hassle-free airport experience.

User V.

Google
Malé is a very compact and lively capital that shows the real local side of the Maldives. It’s busy, densely populated, and interesting to see for a short visit. The new terminal at Velana International Airport is modern, clean, and well-organized, offering a smooth and professional arrival experience. A strong first impression of the country.