{"id":1022,"date":"2026-01-12T10:55:30","date_gmt":"2026-01-12T10:55:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.ru\/maldives\/?p=1022"},"modified":"2026-03-11T07:28:18","modified_gmt":"2026-03-11T07:28:18","slug":"velana-international-airport-in-maldives","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/","title":{"rendered":"Velana international airport in Maldives"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, this article is all about Velana Airport \u2013 the main international airport in Maldives. Around 99% of travelers arrive here for their holiday, and you will, too. I will share everything a tourist needs to know: infrastructure details, duty-free shopping, luggage storage, and how to get from Mal\u00e9 to the airport. You\u2019ll also find information about the other airports in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>It will be difficult for you to plan your dream trip to Maldives without these websites<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/wayaway.tp.st\/y9Loq1Pp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"512\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/themes\/maktub\/assets\/images\/transparent.gif\" data-lazy=\"true\" data-src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-bilety.png\" alt=\"cheap tickets direct flights maldives\" class=\"wp-image-3965\" style=\"width:64px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-bilety.png 512w, https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-bilety-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-bilety-150x150.png 150w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Flight tickets<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tp.st\/2C2pdhCb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"512\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/themes\/maktub\/assets\/images\/transparent.gif\" data-lazy=\"true\" data-src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-tours.png\" alt=\"package tours maldives island\" class=\"wp-image-3964\" style=\"width:64px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-tours.png 512w, https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-tours-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-tours-150x150.png 150w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>eSIM internet<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-default\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/tripadvisor.tp.st\/tXjdIZsr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"512\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/themes\/maktub\/assets\/images\/transparent.gif\" data-lazy=\"true\" data-src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-hotel.png\" alt=\"maldives top hotels\" class=\"wp-image-3963\" style=\"width:64px\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-hotel.png 512w, https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-hotel-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/04\/shapka-hotel-150x150.png 150w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Hotels<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#Velana_The_International_Airport_in_Maldives\" >Velana: The International Airport in Maldives<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#A_Brief_History\" >A Brief History<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#General_Information_%E2%80%93_Live_Flight_Board_Infrastructure_IATA_Code\" >General Information \u2013 Live Flight Board, Infrastructure, IATA Code<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#What_to_Expect\" >What to Expect<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#Duty_Free_and_Souvenirs_Selection_and_Prices\" >Duty Free and Souvenirs: Selection and Prices<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#How_Expensive_Are_We_Talking\" >How Expensive Are We Talking?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#Alcohol_Confiscation_and_Return_Policy\" >Alcohol Confiscation and Return Policy<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#Where_and_How_to_Get_It_Back\" >Where and How to Get It Back<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#Getting_To_and_From_Male\" >Getting To and From Mal\u00e9<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#Transport_Options\" >Transport Options<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/velana-international-airport-in-maldives\/#Domestic_Airports_in_the_Maldives\" >Domestic Airports in the Maldives<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Velana_The_International_Airport_in_Maldives\"><\/span><strong>Velana: The International Airport in Maldives<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The full name is <em>Ibrahim Nasir International Airport<\/em>, named after the president who led the Maldives until 1978 and under whose leadership the country first opened its doors to tourism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Did you know?<\/strong><\/p>\n<cite>Today, the official name is <em>Velana International Airport<\/em>. \u201cVelana\u201d is one of President Nasir\u2019s family names. This name has been officially used since 2017.<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>Almost every tourist to the Maldives lands here. Out of the country\u2019s 17 airports (we\u2019ll cover the others later), this is the only one with a runway over 3,000 meters long. That means it\u2019s the only airport in Maldives capable of handling wide-body aircraft \u2014 the kind that bring tourists from all over the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/03\/airport-1.jpg\" alt=\"airport in maldives male\" class=\"wp-image-1061\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The airport in Maldives is located on a small island in the ocean.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_Brief_History\"><\/span>A Brief History<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a quick but fascinating history of this airport in Maldives to give you a complete picture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The airport opened in 1960, with a runway made of metal sheets. It was just 900 meters long and had no lighting \u2014 meaning it could only handle small propeller planes during daylight hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 1964, a competition was held between Mal\u00e9\u2019s four districts to build an asphalt runway. Volunteer teams from each district raced to finish their section, with the fastest team winning a grand prize of 1,000 rufiyaa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With the start of the tourism boom, Velana Airport underwent major reconstruction, the runway was extended, and in 1981 it received full international airport status, meeting global standards of the time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2018, the runway was expanded to 3,400 meters, allowing it to accommodate any size of aircraft from anywhere in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In November 2022, Velana Airport opened a new seaplane terminal. (<a href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/traveling-around-maldives-by-planes\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"856\">You can read our in-depth guide to inter-island<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/traveling-around-maldives-by-planes\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"856\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/traveling-around-maldives-by-planes\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"856\">seaplane transfers, prices, and how to book tickets via the link<\/a>.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In July 2025, a brand-new international terminal was inaugurated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/03\/airport-2.jpg\" alt=\"international airport in maldives\" class=\"wp-image-1062\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The new seaplane terminal at Velana Airport, with Mal\u00e9 in the background.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Interesting fact:<\/strong><\/p>\n<cite>Until 2018, the airport in Mal\u00e9 was located on its own island, with ferry service being the only connection to the capital. In mid-2018, the 2-kilometer-long Sinamal\u00e9 Bridge opened, linking the three main islands of the capital: Mal\u00e9, Hulhul\u00e9 (where Velana Airport is located), and Hulhumal\u00e9 (a modern new district of Mal\u00e9). Now you can easily reach the airport by bus as well.<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/03\/airport-3.jpg\" alt=\"airport in maldives departure board\" class=\"wp-image-1063\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The bridge that now connects the airport with Mal\u00e9.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"General_Information_%E2%80%93_Live_Flight_Board_Infrastructure_IATA_Code\"><\/span>General Information \u2013 Live Flight Board, Infrastructure, IATA Code<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>IATA code<\/strong>: MLE<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coordinates<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/nQZpAELree2GWSqPA\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/nQZpAELree2GWSqPA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4.188791539230475, 73.52857873558743<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Official website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.macl.aero\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.macl.aero\/<\/a> (very user-friendly)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/03\/airport-4.jpg\" alt=\"airport infrastructure in the Maldives\" class=\"wp-image-1064\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Both mobile operators, Ooredoo and Dhiraagu, have service centers in the arrivals area, so you can buy a SIM card right away.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_Expect\"><\/span>What to Expect<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Velana International Airport in Maldives is not as large as the world\u2019s major international hubs. Don\u2019t expect anything overly extravagant \u2014 but it offers everything you need, and it\u2019s all conveniently close and compact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Currency exchange<\/strong> \u2013 There is a bank where you can exchange money. The rate isn\u2019t the most favorable, but it\u2019s acceptable. (More about <a href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/currency-in-maldives\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"249\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">currency and exchange rates<\/a> in our linked article.)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Luggage storage<\/strong> \u2013 You can store your bags and explore Mal\u00e9 if you have a late flight. Prices range from about $7 to $13 per day per bag, depending on size.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mobile operators<\/strong> \u2013 Both Maldivian telecom providers have shops in the arrivals area, plus there are two self-service SIM vending machines. I recommend going to the official counters. (More about <a href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/internet-in-maldives\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1090\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mobile plans, prices, and internet speeds in our Maldives guide<\/a>.)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Food &amp; drink<\/strong> \u2013 You\u2019ll find a fast-food outlet, caf\u00e9s, and restaurants.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hotel counters<\/strong> \u2013 Right in the arrivals hall, where greeters wait, there are about 300 counters for hotels, resorts, islands, and private companies. If you have a transfer arranged \u2014 or are on a package tour \u2014 you simply find your counter, and they will guide you to your speedboat, seaplane, or taxi.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/03\/airport-5.jpg\" alt=\"list of airports in maldives\" class=\"wp-image-1065\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Just a small section of the arrivals hall, filled with hotel counters greeting tourists \u2014 there are hundreds of them here.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Duty_Free_and_Souvenirs_Selection_and_Prices\"><\/span>Duty Free and Souvenirs: Selection and Prices<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This part of the guide gets a bit more interesting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Important:<\/p>\n<cite>There are no duty-free shops or any stores at all in the arrivals area of Velana Airport. You can\u2019t buy anything when you land. All duty-free and souvenir shopping is only available in the departures area.<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>The selection of alcohol and souvenirs is quite extensive. You can find pretty much anything you forgot to buy during your holiday \u2014 but be prepared for high prices. Why so expensive?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to alcohol, it\u2019s easy to understand: the Maldives is a Muslim country, alcohol is prohibited, and where it is available, it\u2019s very expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Souvenirs are a different story. Most tourists spend their entire holiday at a private island resort, where there are no shopping malls or real stores \u2014 only the resort itself and the beach. At best, you might find a small souvenir shop. That\u2019s why so many travelers wait until the airport to buy keepsakes, since for most of them it\u2019s the only chance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Expensive_Are_We_Talking\"><\/span>How Expensive Are We Talking?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>I won\u2019t list all alcohol prices in duty free, but here\u2019s a comparison. There\u2019s an unofficial way to measure the \u201cprice level\u201d of duty free in any airport: check the cost of a 1-liter bottle of Martini. The global average is $9\u201310. In the airport in Maldives? $20. Here, alcohol is even pricier than in my local store back home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/03\/airport-6.jpg\" alt=\"duty free at the airport in maldives\" class=\"wp-image-1066\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Alcohol in Velana Airport\u2019s duty free is extremely expensive<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to souvenirs, things get even worse. You won\u2019t find a fridge magnet for under $5. Anything more interesting \u2014 expect $20, $30, even $50. I once saw a small wooden manta ray magnet priced at $25; I bought the exact same one on Rasdhoo island for $3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/03\/airport-7.jpg\" alt=\"souvenirs in maldives airport\" class=\"wp-image-1067\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">I\u2019ve seen few countries where a simple magnet costs $25. Actually, make that just one \u2014 the Maldives.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong><\/p>\n<cite>If you can, buy souvenirs before you get to the airport. Mal\u00e9\u2019s market has a lot of interesting options for up to ten times cheaper. The airport in Maldives is one of the priciest places for shopping.<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>You can check out our detailed articles on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/male-city-tourist-guide-overview-2023\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3010\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Exploring Mal\u00e9<\/a>: sights, the market, and where to buy souvenirs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/top-5-souvenirs-and-gifts-from-maldives\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1840\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What to bring home from the Maldives<\/a> (not just magnets!).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Alcohol_Confiscation_and_Return_Policy\"><\/span>Alcohol Confiscation and Return Policy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a very brief version \u2014 the full guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/alcohol-in-the-maldives\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"201\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">alcohol in the Maldives<\/a> covers prices (from $100 per bottle), where you can buy it (almost nowhere), the official allowance (zero liters), and how baggage checks work. But let\u2019s talk about the confiscation and return process here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The legal import limit for alcohol in the Maldives is <strong>0 liters<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anything over that (including bottles bought in duty free during a transit stop) will be confiscated.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your hand luggage is scanned for liquids immediately after you leave the plane, and there\u2019s another scanner in the \u201cgreen channel\u201d before exiting the arrivals hall.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There\u2019s no fine. Airport staff simply take your alcohol and fill out a confiscation form with your passport details. Sometimes you get a copy, sometimes not.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You can reclaim your alcohol on your way out of the country \u2014 just present your passport.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_and_How_to_Get_It_Back\"><\/span>Where and How to Get It Back<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The alcohol return counter is located in the same hall as the check-in desks, just to the left of them, near the restrooms \u2014 but crucially, it\u2019s <strong>after<\/strong> the first security checkpoint. You can\u2019t access it without a valid ticket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Very important:<\/strong><\/p>\n<cite><em>First, collect your alcohol, then check in for your flight and place it in your checked baggage. If you check in first and keep it in your carry-on, it will be confiscated again at the next security point before duty free. Many travelers make this mistake.<\/em><\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/03\/airport-8.jpg\" alt=\"alcohol at the airport male\" class=\"wp-image-1068\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>This is where you collect your alcohol on departure \u2014 left of the check-in desks, near the toilets.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Getting_To_and_From_Male\"><\/span>Getting To and From Mal\u00e9<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This part is very straightforward. The main international airport in Maldives, as you\u2019ve probably noticed, is located on its own island. The moment you step out of the terminal, you\u2019re right at the pier, facing the ocean. There\u2019s no need to walk a kilometer to reach a bus stop like in Montenegro or Qatar \u2014 here, everything is compact and close.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Fun fact:<\/strong><\/p>\n<cite>Velana International Airport regularly appears in the top rankings of the world\u2019s most beautiful airports. You\u2019ll understand why as soon as you land. If you arrive during daylight hours, the turquoise water and postcard-perfect islands will greet you through your window.<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Transport_Options\"><\/span>Transport Options<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>All speedboat and seaplane transfers to resorts pick up guests directly from the arrivals hall.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Many speedboats also depart from the main airport pier: <strong>Hulhul\u00e9 Ferry<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>From this same pier, ferries leave every 10\u201315 minutes for both Mal\u00e9 and the northern island of Hulhumal\u00e9. Tickets cost 10 rufiyaa (about $0.65), but for some reason the evening rate is 15 rufiyaa.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Buses to Mal\u00e9 also depart every 15\u201320 minutes from here, with the same 10 rufiyaa fare.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Both ferries and buses take around 10\u201315 minutes to reach the capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/03\/airport-9.jpg\" alt=\"how to get to the airport in Maldives from Male\" class=\"wp-image-1060\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Typical ferries and buses operating between the airport and Mal\u00e9.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Coordinates:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Airport ferry pier: <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/Yahg61DNvGJoX67VA\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/Yahg61DNvGJoX67VA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4.18967460912598, 73.52686626060776<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Airport bus stop: <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/UEe4pKgp8ZszzCyy7\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/UEe4pKgp8ZszzCyy7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4.189204493188107, 73.52697925272528<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hulhumal\u00e9 ferry terminal: <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/FyvNGeiY1t21q9Gg6\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/FyvNGeiY1t21q9Gg6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4.217383242149406, 73.53720945551848<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mal\u00e9 ferry terminal (<em>Henveiru Ferry<\/em>): <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/KnFgLu4GneQbPZyV8\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/KnFgLu4GneQbPZyV8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4.177906752166473, 73.51716442644583<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mal\u00e9 bus terminal (<em>Maafannu Bus Terminal<\/em>): <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/CR3aXefMjapz8ayB6\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/CR3aXefMjapz8ayB6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">4.169246657042577, 73.50466918752326<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Important for onward ferry travel:<\/strong><\/p>\n<cite>The ferry from the airport to Mal\u00e9 arrives only at Henveiru Ferry \u2014 the old terminal. But Mal\u00e9 has two ferry terminals, and about 80% of ferries to local islands depart from the new <strong>Villingili Terminal<\/strong>, located about 1.5 km away. You can take a taxi for around $3 or walk in 30 minutes.<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Domestic_Airports_in_the_Maldives\"><\/span>Domestic Airports in the Maldives<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The international airport in Mal\u00e9 \u2014 Velana \u2014 is not the only one in the country. In addition, there are 16 domestic airports with their own runways, plus around 300 seaplane docks (piers where seaplanes can moor after landing on the water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Seaplane docks are simple: water, a pier, and that\u2019s your airstrip. But seaplanes don\u2019t operate at night or in bad weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Domestic flights, on the other hand, are a vital part of transportation between distant islands. They operate frequently, aren\u2019t affected by weather, and are quite expensive for tourists \u2014 a 30\u201345 minute flight costs about $200 per person one way, and that\u2019s not even for the farthest atolls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Official domestic airline website:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/maldivian.aero\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Maldivian.aero<\/a> \u2014 check here for tickets, prices, and schedules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/embed?mid=1CSFhEZ887buT5FY-OaK9MVGUE-0OaGM&amp;hl=en&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"100%\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Good to know:<\/p>\n<cite>Looking at the map of airports, you\u2019ll notice that apart from Velana, there are no other airports in the central part of the Maldives \u2014 even though there are 4\u20135 large atolls there. For example, the popular Alif-Alif Atoll (North Ari), located about 60\u201370 km from Mal\u00e9, can only be reached by sea or expensive seaplane transfers. There\u2019s no conventional airport there. For more information on <a href=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/how-to-choose-best-atolls-in-maldives\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"900\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>atolls and which island to choose for the best vacation<\/strong><\/a>, see the link provided.<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>Most domestic airports in Maldives have runways shorter than 2,000 meters. This means they can only handle small aircraft carrying around 40\u201350 passengers. The main fleet consists of twin-propeller <strong>Dash 8<\/strong> planes with 50 seats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2023\/03\/airport-10.jpg\" alt=\"all local airports in maldives\" class=\"wp-image-1069\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The Dash 8, the most common aircraft for inter-island travel in the Maldives. Below: a typical domestic airport.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Final Notes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, the main international airport in Maldives is a modern facility with all essential infrastructure. It is the country\u2019s primary transport hub, handling 99% of all tourist arrivals. Velana Airport is constantly being upgraded, expanded, and improved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even today, from Velana Airport you can easily fly or sail to any island or atoll in the country \u2014 whether by speedboat, seaplane, or domestic flight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>Resources to help you plan your dream trip to the Maldives<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul style=\"background-color:#f9f9fe\" class=\"wp-block-list has-background\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/wayaway.tp.st\/CcIwZcSL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flight tickets<\/a><\/strong> and the best deals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vacation packages<\/strong> (from budget to luxury): <a href=\"https:\/\/cheapoair.tp.st\/CFVzNXiR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CheapOair<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hotels and guesthouses<\/strong> on any island: \n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/tripadvisor.tp.st\/EXHzrU8J\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TripAdvisor<\/a> compares prices among a dozen other services and platforms and offers to choose the best one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/trip.tp.st\/ogKzqY3F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Trip.com<\/a> &#8211; the most popular service for booking accommodation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/12go.tp.st\/l5sSc3oJ\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/12go.tp.st\/l5sSc3oJ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">12go <\/a>is the largest Asian ferry and speedboat reservation service. It gathers all Maldivian carriers, even the small ones that operate between local islands.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tours and excursions<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/viator.tp.st\/DWWL0pHJ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Viator<\/a> &#8211; a limited selection of excursions, but convenient and reliable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Comprehensive insurance<\/strong>: <strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ektatraveling.tp.st\/VomskiGi\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/ektatraveling.tp.st\/VomskiGi\" target=\"_blank\">EKTA<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tp.st\/OPi1AJhc\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/tp.st\/OPi1AJhc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">eSIM<\/a><\/strong> at the same price as in telecom office in Male airport.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Of course, this article is all about Velana Airport \u2013 the main international airport in Maldives. Around 99% of travelers arrive here for their holiday,&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1024,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1022","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-transportation"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1022","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1022"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1022\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4871,"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1022\/revisions\/4871"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1024"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1022"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1022"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/travel-4-fun.com\/maldives\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1022"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}