Work to develop the Villingili International Airport is expected to begin before the end of November 2026, Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has said.
The airport is a presidential pledge announced in Villingili, Gaaf Alif Atoll, in August 2023 by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed during the President’s official visit to the island in February 2024, but work has yet to begin.
During the latest session of the ‘Ahaa’ forum, the minister was asked regarding the project. In his response, the minister said efforts are ongoing to kickstart the project, and that the government plans to change the contractor and begin practical work soon.
The project aims to develop Villingili International Airport as well as the atoll’s tourism industry. Plans for the airport include a 2.2 km runway, a transit hotel and other international airport facilities.
Luxury resorts, hotels and a yacht marina are also expected to be developed under the project. The government previously announced an estimated investment of USD 500 million to USD 750 million for the airport and related tourism development.