First Visitor of 2026 Receives Warm Welcome at VIA

The Maldives marked the beginning of 2026 by warmly welcoming its first international visitor of the year at Velana International Airport (VIA), continuing the country’s tradition of celebrating th...

Mohamed Hilmy

01 January 2026, 00:00

The first visitor of 2026 was identified as Mr. Thomas Andrew Helvega, a 54-year-old German national, who arrived in the Maldives on an Etihad Airways flight. He was accompanied by his wife, and the visit marks the couple’s first journey to the Maldives.

To commemorate the occasion, a special welcoming ceremony was held at the airport’s arrival area. On behalf of Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), the Deputy Chief Officer of Passenger Services, Ali Mushtaq, extended a warm greeting to Mr. Helvega and presented him with a commemorative gift in recognition of the milestone.

The annual welcome ceremony highlights the Maldives’ continued commitment to hospitality and its position as a leading global tourism destination. It also reflects the importance placed on creating memorable arrival experiences for visitors from around the world.

MACL reiterated its dedication to providing world-class services to all airlines and passengers using its facilities, ensuring smooth, efficient and welcoming journeys for travelers arriving in the Maldives throughout the year.

First Visitor of 2026 Receives Warm Welcome at VIA

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