Velana International Airport’s newly inaugurated terminal has begun broadcasting the Islamic call to prayer (Adhan) five times daily, starting with today’s Asr prayer.

The announcement was made via a post on the President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's X account, commemorating the first time the new terminal has formally issued prayer calls since its inauguration. The implementation reflects the integration of religious observance into the operations of the country’s primary international gateway.

The new terminal, now designated Terminal 1,  is equipped with multiple prayer rooms located throughout the facility, designed to accommodate both male and female worshippers. These spaces aim to provide convenience for both passengers and airport staff in observing daily prayers.

Developed to handle up to 7.5 million passengers annually, the terminal offers modernised infrastructure, including dedicated spaces for arrivals, departures, and transit passengers. It also features expanded immigration services, with 28 counters and seven electronic gates to streamline processing and improve overall efficiency.