Maldives Inaugurates Hanimaadhoo International Airport Built With India’s Support

• The Maldives has inaugurated the Hanimaadhoo International Airport , a flagship infrastructure project developed with India’s financial and technical assistance . The inauguration ceremony, held on 9 November 2025 , was presided over by President Mohamed Muizzu and attended by India’s Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu . The project marks a milestone in India-Maldives cooperation and celebrates 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Symbol of Economic Transformation

• President Muizzu hailed the new airport as a “gateway to prosperity” and a symbol of economic transformation for northern Maldives. He noted that the modern international terminal will boost tourism, fisheries, agriculture, and trade , bringing inclusive development to the atolls beyond Malé. The project is part of the government’s broader effort to decentralise economic growth and strengthen social and infrastructure connectivity across the country.

India’s Role and Project Details

• The airport was developed under India’s USD 800 million Line of Credit (LoC) , extended through the Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank) in 2019. The construction was executed by India’s JMC Projects at a total cost of USD 136.6 million .
• The initiative aligns with India’s “Neighbourhood First” and “MAHASAGAR” (Maritime and Security Growth for All in the Region) visions, aimed at promoting regional connectivity and economic integration in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) . The Indian High Commission in Malé described the airport as a “ true vehicle for progress and prosperity ,” underscoring the shared vision of sustainable growth and partnership.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

• Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu’s presence at the ceremony reflected India’s continued support for Maldives’ infrastructure and development priorities. During his visit, he held discussions with Maldivian Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel on enhancing cooperation in aviation, trade, and maritime connectivity . Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability and mutual prosperity .

Exam-Oriented Facts

• Inauguration Date: 9 November 2025

• Location: Hanimaadhoo, northern Maldives

• Project Cost: USD 136.6 million

• Funding: India’s USD 800 million Line of Credit (EXIM Bank, 2019)

• Constructed by: JMC Projects (India)

• Significance: Marks 60 years of India-Maldives diplomatic ties

Gateway to Northern Development

The Hanimaadhoo International Airport is expected to increase tourist arrivals to northern Maldives, open new export opportunities, and enhance air connectivity within South Asia. With modern facilities and extended runways, the airport will serve as a regional hub , promoting economic resilience, sustainable growth , and stronger India-Maldives cooperation in the Indian Ocean region .