Dharavandhoo Airport Expansion: IASL Invites EOIs for New Passenger Terminal Development

New Dharavandhoo Airport Terminal Project to Boost Baa Atoll Tourism and Domestic Aviation

Island Aviation Services Limited, (IASL) has opened Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the development of a new passenger terminal at Dharavandhoo Airport under a contractor-financing model, marking a major milestone in the expansion of one of the Maldives’ key domestic aviation hubs.

The project aims to modernise airport infrastructure, improve passenger handling capacity, and strengthen connectivity to Baa Atoll, one of the Maldives’ most important tourism regions and home to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

According to the announcement issued on 21 May 2026, contractor selection is expected to conclude in the coming months, with construction scheduled to begin later this year. The deadline for EOI registration is set for 4 June 2026 at 23:59hrs Maldives time.

Dharavandhoo Airport’s Strategic Importance in the Maldives

Dharavandhoo Airport first opened on 17 October 2012, with commercial flight operations beginning shortly before its official inauguration by former President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan.

Located in Baa Atoll, the airport serves as a major gateway for tourists travelling to luxury resorts, dive destinations, and guesthouses across the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve region. The airport also plays an important role in domestic connectivity between the atolls and Malé.

Originally developed by Coastline Hotels and Resorts, the airport is currently owned and operated by  Island Aviation Services Ltd., the state-owned operator of the national airline, Maldivian.

Operational management of Dharavandhoo Airport was transferred to IASL as part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic aviation infrastructure and support tourism growth across the Maldives.

Dharavandhoo Airport Passenger Traffic and Flight Statistics

Dharavandhoo Airport has experienced steady growth in passenger traffic due to rising tourism demand in Baa Atoll and increased domestic air connectivity.

Official aviation statistics show the airport handled more than 30,000 passengers during the first four months of 2024 alone, highlighting the increasing demand for domestic travel to the region.

While full 2025 monthly passenger statistics have not yet been officially published, IASL confirmed in 2026 that Dharavandhoo Airport has handled more than 1.8 million passengers and over 42,000 flight movements since opening in 2012.

The airport currently accommodates an average of eight daily flights, with international tourists accounting for approximately 72 percent of total passenger traffic.

Industry observers say Dharavandhoo Airport continues to see strong demand from travellers heading to nearby resort islands and popular diving destinations such as Hanifaru Bay.

Current Facilities at Dharavandhoo Airport

Currently operating as a domestic airport, Dharavandhoo Airport features a 1,189-metre asphalt runway capable of accommodating ATR and Dash 8 aircraft.

Existing airport facilities include:

• Domestic passenger check-in counters

• Arrival and departure processing areas

• Basic baggage handling services

• Passenger waiting lounges

• Security screening facilities

• Daily domestic flights to Malé and regional destinations

• Operations by airlines including Maldivian and Manta Air

New Passenger Terminal Features and Expansion Plans

The new Dharavandhoo Airport passenger terminal is expected to significantly improve airport capacity and passenger experience.

According to the project concept, the upgraded terminal will include:

• A larger arrival hall

• Expanded baggage handling and sorting systems

• Self-service check-in kiosks

• Three passenger boarding gates

• Modern security screening systems

• A 75-seat passenger lounge

• Dedicated baby care facilities

• Interior design inspired by the Maldives’ underwater scenery

Once completed, the expanded terminal will increase passenger handling capacity from approximately 80 passengers to 175 passengers at a time.

The upgraded airport infrastructure will also enable Dharavandhoo Airport to accommodate three aircraft simultaneously, supporting future tourism growth and improving operational efficiency.

Major Infrastructure Investment for Baa Atoll Tourism

Industry stakeholders view the Dharavandhoo Airport terminal expansion as a major infrastructure investment that will further strengthen Baa Atoll’s position as one of the Maldives’ leading tourism destinations.

The project is expected to improve passenger services, support tourism expansion, and enhance regional connectivity while reinforcing the Maldives’ growing domestic aviation network.