The Government has awarded Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) the responsibility for land reclamation and airport development in Alifu Alifu Mathiveri.

The agreement was formalised during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s ongoing visit to the atoll. The contract was signed on behalf of the Finance Ministry by State Minister Hussain Imran, while MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed signed on behalf of the company.

Speaking to the residents at the community meeting, President Dr Muizzu said the project, which MACL will invest in and finance independently, is expected to be completed within 30 months. He highlighted that the project is 100 per cent feasible and that the airport will serve not only Mathiveri but also the wider atoll, opening new opportunities for the tourism sector and generating broader economic benefits.

The President also recalled that the Government had earlier announced plans to pursue the Mathiveri airport through a cross-subsidy model. He noted that despite challenges in financial feasibility, the airport’s development is crucial for strengthening transport links and unlocking new growth in the region’s economy.

According to project details, the development will include a 1,500-metre-long, 30-metre-wide runway, taxiways and aprons, a passenger terminal, fire station, and supporting infrastructure such as access roads. In addition, 26.5 hectares of land will be reclaimed from Mathiveri to accommodate the airport and future housing projects.