Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has participated in the inauguration of the Velana International Airport, a landmark project that aims to significantly enhance the Maldives’ infrastructure.
With a total investment of $90 million (AED 330.5 million) from ADFD, the Velana International Airport project was implemented in two phases, receiving co-financing from the Saudi Fund for Development, theKuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and the OPEC Fund for International Development.
This cooperation highlights the shared commitment of regional development institutions to support high-impact projects in developing nations to contribute to an inclusive, sustainable growth.
ADFD’s funding played a critical role in enhancing the operational capacity of Velana International Airport, accommodating over 7 million passengers annually meeting the nation’s growing travel demand. The project included the expansion of the airport’s western passenger terminal, the implementation of 26 passenger boarding bridges, and the construction of a state-of-the-art international terminal.
These enhancements reinforce the Maldives’ position as a key hub for commercial, tourism, and investment activities, and underscore the Fund’s commitment to supporting impactful, sustainable projects that improve the quality of life in communities.
HE Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi Director-General – ADFD
“The Fund’s mission towards strengthening strategic partnerships between regional development institutions and international organizations, fostering broader and more sustainable developmental impacts. Through our partnership with the Government of Maldives and regional development institutions, we have collectively contributed to the country’s economic and social growth. Coinciding with the Maldives’ Independence Day celebrations, the inauguration of Velana International Airport underscores our ongoing commitment to ensuring greater resource efficiency and supporting our partner nations to build a resilient economy and prosperous future.”
H.E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives, stated that, “ADFD’s financing of Velana International Airport, in partnership with international collaborators, reflects our shared commitment to achieving sustainable development goals and demonstrates a long-term strategic vision for infrastructure development and growth in developing nations. The opening of this airport will further enhance the Maldives’ position in the global aviation sector.”
