Velana Airport Opens Former Terminal to House Tourists Amid Middle East Flight Disruptions

The Maldives Airports Company Limited has converted the former domestic terminal at Velana International Airport into temporary accommodation for approximately 1,400 tourists stranded in the Maldives following widespread flight cancellations linked to instability in the Middle East.

The move comes after significant portions of Middle Eastern airspace were closed amid escalating regional tensions, disrupting outbound travel for passengers scheduled to depart the Maldives. According to Tourism Minister Ibrahim Thoriq, the cancellations have affected around 1,400 tourists, many of whom were due to transit through the region.

To manage the situation, MACL arranged sleeping bags and mats for affected passengers and ensured access to essential amenities, including drinking water. Prior to the formal allocation of space, stranded tourists had been staying inside the former domestic terminal building and in an air conditioned area beneath the restaurant located in front of the terminal.

Minister Thoriq visited Velana International Airport on Tuesday night to assess the arrangements. Speaking to state media PSM, he confirmed that comprehensive measures had been implemented through MACL to provide a more comfortable stay within the airport premises.

He said the former Island Aviation lounge is being prepared and cleaned to accommodate families, creating a designated area better suited to longer waiting periods. The minister noted that while some passengers are actively rebooking tickets on alternative routes, others have opted to remain at the airport to monitor developments before finalising travel plans.

Authorities are coordinating closely with industry stakeholders to respond to the evolving situation. The disruption stems from heightened regional tensions and military escalations in the Middle East, which have prompted airlines to suspend or reroute services operating through affected airspace.

Velana International Airport, managed by MACL, serves as the Maldives’ primary international gateway and handles the majority of inbound and outbound tourist traffic. The temporary repurposing of airport facilities reflects efforts to manage operational disruptions while ensuring passenger welfare during an uncertain period for regional aviation.