MACL Launches Ha. Dhidhoo Land Reclamation Project for the New Airport

The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has officially launched the Ha. Dhidhoo Land Reclamation Project, holding an inaugural ceremony to mark the start of work for the development of the island’s new airport.

The ceremony was officiated by Minister of Finance and Planning Moosa Zameer, with MACL CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, Dhidhoo Parliamentary Member Abdul Latheef Mohamed, and Dhidhoo Council President Abdulla Rasheed in attendance. The event was presented as part of the development vision of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who has prioritised expanding regional airports across the Maldives.

MACL stated that the reclaimed land will be used for the airport, along with space allocated for housing and essential services connected to the project. The company highlighted the initiative as a key step toward improving connectivity and supporting long‑term development in the northern atolls.

While the ceremony underscored the government’s commitment to accelerating airport construction, MACL’s growing involvement in major state‑driven development projects has drawn attention. Traditionally focused on airport operations and aviation infrastructure, the company is now taking on a broader range of government‑aligned responsibilities.

Despite these concerns, the Dhidhoo ceremony signaled a clear intention to move ahead quickly. With reclamation now underway, MACL says the new land will form the foundation for Dhidhoo’s future airport and related community facilities.