MACL Signs Agreement to Build Third Airport in Thaa Atoll

The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has signed an agreement to build a new airport in Thaa Atoll Guraidhoo, marking the third airport to be developed in the atoll.

The agreement was signed during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s tour of Thaa Atoll. Finance Minister Moosa Zameer signed the agreement on behalf of the government, while MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef signed on behalf of the company.

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Our CEO & MD, Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, signed a MoU with the Ministry of Finance for the development of Th. Guraidhoo Airport. This initiative represents a significant step towards strengthening infrastructure and enhancing services in the region. pic.twitter.com/hfrU0NBhkL— Maldives Airports Company Ltd (@MACLmedia) September 25, 2025

According to President Muizzu, the Guraidhoo Airport is scheduled for completion within 22 months and will be inaugurated on 26 July 2027, coinciding with Maldives’ Independence Day. He also stated that a land reclamation agreement for Guraidhoo would be signed today as part of the island’s broader development plan.

Guraidhoo Council President Thaufeeq Ali said the airport project fulfilled a long-held aspiration of the island’s residents.

Thaa Atoll currently has one operational airport in Thimarafushi, which was opened in 2013 during former President Dr Mohamed Waheed’s administration. The airport, developed by the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), features a 1,200-metre-long and 30-metre-wide runway and was built at a cost of MVR 32 million.

A second airport is currently under development in Vilufushi, with reclamation works beginning on Thursday.

During his visit to Thaa Atoll, President Muizzu also announced several other new development initiatives for the region.