MACL Completes Special Umrah Departure Operation for 5,565 Pilgrims at Velana International Airport

Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has concluded the special departure operation carried out at Velana International Airport (VIA) to support Umrah pilgrims travelling from the Maldives during July.

With the final group departing today, the total number of pilgrims processed through VIA reached 5,565. The operation was managed by MACL’s Passenger Services, Terminal Services and Estate Security Services teams, working in coordination with relevant airport stakeholders to maintain smooth passenger flow and ensure efficient processing throughout the period.

Groups of more than 100 pilgrims were provided pre‑check‑in services one day prior to departure, enabling early baggage acceptance, check‑in and boarding pass issuance. MACL also worked with Maldives Immigration to facilitate advance passport clearance.

At VIA, dedicated arrangements were made for pilgrims, including a separate terminal entrance, allocated immigration counters, exclusive security screening lanes and additional X‑ray machines to reduce congestion and processing time.

Further measures were implemented across the landside area to manage vehicle movements, taxi queues and access routes, allowing regular airport operations to continue without major disruption.

MACL expressed appreciation to Maldives Immigration, participating airlines, travel agencies, Umrah groups, airport stakeholders and all individuals and institutions whose cooperation contributed to the successful completion of the operation.