Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has updated that land reclamation works in Haa Alifu Dhidhdhoo are progressing at an accelerated pace, with 21 hectares reclaimed so far, accounting for 18.75 per cent of overall completion.

Reclamation works for the Dhidhdhoo project commenced on January 5, 2026, and are currently being carried out using Leiv Eiriksson, one of the world’s largest trailing suction hopper dredgers, with a capacity of 46,000 cubic metres.

According to MACL, the project will add approximately 115 hectares of land to Dhidhdhoo, creating space to support the development of the island’s airport, housing initiatives, and essential community services. The company said the reclamation phase is part of a broader, phased development plan.

Under the plan, reclamation works will be followed by shore protection, runway construction, and the development of airport buildings and related infrastructure. MACL said the project is designed to address existing land constraints on Dhidhdhoo, enabling land allocation for both airport facilities and residential development.

The expansion will significantly increase the island’s land area, supporting long-term growth and improving connectivity for the northern atoll.