6 Airports in Maldives With IATA Codes: Operating Airlines & Terminals

The Maldives, a slice of paradise nestled in the Indian Ocean, is famed for its turquoise waters, luxurious resorts, and unforgettable underwater experiences. Whether you’re arriving for a romantic getaway or a tranquil retreat, knowing about the best airports can make your journey more enjoyable. 

This guide highlights the top airports in Maldives, including IATA codes, terminal details, and airline services to help you plan your travel with ease.

Airport Name	Type	Airport Code (IATA)
Velana International Airport	International	MLE
Gan International Airport	International	GAN
Hanimaadhoo International Airport	International	HAQ
Maafaru International Airport	International	NMF
Villa International Airport, Maamigili	Domestic	VAM
Dharavandhoo Airport	Domestic	DRV

1. Velana International Airport (MLE) – The Main Airport in the Maldives

Velana International Airport, formerly known as Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, is the primary international gateway to the Maldives. Located on Hulhulé Island near the capital Malé, it’s the busiest and one of the best airports in Maldives. It connects the island nation to key cities across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Address:Airport Main Rd, 22000, Maldives
Location:https://maps.app.goo.gl/DiLDEAY8d2GgUaTC7
Airport Code: MLE
Category: Operates both international and domestic flights
Phone:+960 332-3506
Distance from City Center: 4 km from Malé (via ferry)
Operating Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines, SriLankan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Flydubai, IndiGo, Maldivian
Terminals: International Terminal, Domestic Terminal, Seaplane Terminal
Services & Amenities:

• Seaplane and speedboat transfer counters
• VIP and business lounges
• Duty-free shopping, cafés, and restaurants
• Currency exchange, ATMs, and prayer rooms
• Free Wi-Fi and baggage services

Nearby Attractions:

• Malé City: National Museum, local markets, Grand Friday Mosque
• Hulhumalé Island: Urban beach area and relaxing cafés
• Diving & Snorkeling: Near North Malé Atoll

Suggested Read: Maldives on a Budget

2. Gan International Airport (GAN) – Southern Maldives Hub

Gan International Airport is the second international airport in the Maldives, located on Gan Island in Addu Atoll. It serves as a key entry point for travelers heading to the southern atolls and is one of the top airports in the Maldives for exploring off-the-beaten-path resorts.

Address:Building No 100, Airport Main Road, Addu Cit,y Gan, 19070, Maldives
Location:https://maps.app.goo.gl/HzwTSoowv6HUt93w5
Airport Code: GAN
Category: International and domestic
Phone: +960 689-8010
Distance from City Center: 3 km from Feydhoo
Operating Airlines: Maldivian, Sri Lankan Airlines
Terminals: Single integrated terminal
Services & Amenities:

• Domestic and international transfer services
• Restaurant and café
• Currency exchange and basic shopping
• Transportation to nearby islands and resorts

Nearby Attractions:

• Addu Nature Park: Mangroves, birdwatching, kayaking
• Gan Island Beaches: Secluded and scenic
• WWII Historical Sites

Suggested Read: Maldives in January

3. Hanimaadhoo International Airport (HAQ) – Northern Gateway to Maldives

Located in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Hanimaadhoo International Airport connects the northern islands to the rest of the country and limited international destinations. It’s among the best airports in Maldives for eco-resort access and peaceful island getaways.

Address:P5W9+XGH, Hanimaadhoo, Maldives
Location:https://maps.app.goo.gl/DNFE2kQLbmndAszB6
Airport Code: HAQ
Category: International and domestic
Phone:+960 652-0023
Distance from City Center: 1 km from Hanimaadhoo village
Operating Airlines: Maldivian, FlyMe (seasonal)
Terminals: One small terminal
Services & Amenities:

• Compact lounge area
• Cafeteria and local handicraft stalls
• Transportation to eco-resorts
• Basic medical services

Nearby Attractions:

• Hanimaadhoo Beach: Quiet, palm-lined coast
• Eco-resorts: Focused on sustainability and coral reef protection
• Snorkeling & diving excursions

Suggested Read: Reasons to Visit the Maldives

4. Maafaru International Airport (NMF) – Luxury Travel Destination

Maafaru International Airport is a newly developed airport in Noonu Atoll, designed primarily for private jets and luxury tourism. It’s becoming one of the top airports in Maldives for travelers seeking direct access to high-end resorts in the north-central region.

Address:RFGG+7HF, Maafaru, Maldives
Location:https://maps.app.goo.gl/Mzzuom5XzZh4Cb2R9
Airport Code: NMF
Category: International (limited) and domestic
Distance from City Center: 1 km from Maafaru village
Operating Airlines: Mostly private and chartered flights
Terminals: One upscale terminal with VIP amenities
Services & Amenities:

• VIP lounge and private transfer services
• Seaplane and speedboat connectivity
• Custom immigration for private travelers
• Modern runway accommodating large jets

Nearby Attractions:

• Noonu Atoll Resorts: Cheval Blanc Randheli, Soneva Jani
• Pristine reefs and underwater experiences
• Island hopping via luxury yacht

Suggested Read: Honeymoon in the Maldives

5. Villa International Airport Maamigili (VAM) – Gateway to South Ari Atoll

Villa International Airport, located on Maamigili Island, primarily supports domestic travel and private charter flights to nearby luxury resorts. It is one of the best airports in Maldives for travelers heading to the South Ari Atoll, known for whale shark spotting.

Address:FRFQ+859, Maamigili, Maldives
Location:https://maps.app.goo.gl/2wri3QSzsjwMTX276
Airport Code: VAM
Category: Domestic and limited international charters
Phone:+960 668-8866
Distance from City Center: 1.5 km from Maamigili center
Operating Airlines: FlyMe (Villa Air)
Terminals: Single terminal
Services & Amenities:

• Private lounges and exclusive resort check-in
• Direct speedboat transfers to nearby resorts
• Whale shark excursion services
• Café and basic retail shops

Nearby Attractions:

• Dhigurah and Maamigili Islands: Marine activities and island vibes
• South Ari Marine Protected Area: Whale shark safaris
• Lux* South Ari Atoll and Conrad Maldives resorts

Suggested Read: Beaches in the Maldives

6. Dharavandhoo Airport (DRV) – Best for Baa Atoll Biosphere

Dharavandhoo Airport in Baa Atoll offers quick access to some of the Maldives’ most exclusive resorts and is the closest airport to the UNESCO-listed Hanifaru Bay. It’s one of the top airports in Maldives for travelers looking to experience manta ray snorkeling and luxury retreats.

Address: Dharavandhoo Island, Baa Atoll, Maldives
Location:https://maps.app.goo.gl/HY8Buy7zD5PPtN3W8
Airport Code: DRV
Category: Domestic
Phone:+960 778-1817
Distance from City Center: 1 km from Dharavandhoo village
Operating Airlines: Maldivian
Terminals: Single terminal
Services & Amenities:

• Lounge area and tourism assistance
• Seaplane and boat connectivity
• Island transfers arranged by nearby resorts
• Medical assistance and travel services

Nearby Attractions:

• Hanifaru Bay: Seasonal manta ray gathering site
• Soneva Fushi and other luxury eco-resorts
• Baa Atoll’s diving and snorkeling sites

Suggested Read: Hiking in the Maldives

Top 5 Places You Must Visit in the Maldives

The Maldives is a tropical haven scattered across the Indian Ocean, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and overwater luxury resorts. 

Whether you’re arriving via one of the best airports in the Maldives or planning a serene island escape, these five iconic destinations deserve a spot on your travel list.

Place	Location	Highlights
Maafushi Island	South Male Atoll	Budget-friendly, water sports, and local culture
Vaadhoo Island	Raa Atoll	Glowing “Sea of Stars,” bioluminescent beaches
Male City	North Male Atoll	Capital city, cultural sites, and local markets
Baros Island	Near Male	Luxury resorts, house reef snorkeling, honeymoon spot
Addu Atoll	Southern Maldives	WWII relics, diving, and untouched islands

Maafushi Island – South Male Atoll

Just a 30-minute speedboat ride from Male, Maafushi Island offers an affordable Maldivian experience without compromising on natural beauty. It’s a hub for budget travelers seeking activities like snorkeling, diving, parasailing, and dolphin cruises. You’ll also get a taste of local life, with charming guesthouses and authentic eateries.

Best For: Budget travelers, backpackers, and adventure seekers.

Vaadhoo Island – Raa Atoll

Famed for its magical “Sea of Stars,” Vaadhoo Island lights up at night thanks to bioluminescent phytoplankton. The shimmering glow along the shoreline makes this one of the most surreal experiences in the Maldives.

Best For: Nature lovers, couples, and photographers.

Male City – North Male Atoll

The vibrant capital of the Maldives is often overlooked, but it’s worth exploring for its local charm. Visit the 17th-century Hukuru Miskiy (Friday Mosque), Sultan Park, and the bustling fish and local markets.

Best For: Culture seekers, foodies, and city explorers.

Baros Island – Near Male

Baros is a luxury private island resort known for its intimate overwater villas, pristine beaches, and an exceptional house reef just steps from your villa. It’s a go-to for honeymooners and those seeking an exclusive escape.

Best For: Honeymooners, couples, and luxury travelers.

Addu Atoll – Southern Maldives

Located at the southern tip of the Maldives, Addu Atoll offers a unique mix of history and marine adventure. Discover British WWII relics, lush islands, and world-class diving spots with manta rays, shipwrecks, and untouched reefs.

Best For: Divers, history buffs, and off-the-beaten-path explorers.

FAQs

What are the accommodation options near Maldives Airport?

Velana International Airport (MLE), the main gateway to the Maldives, is located on Hulhulé Island near the capital city, Male. There are several accommodation options nearby, ranging from transit hotels to luxurious resorts:

• Hulhule Island Hotel (HIH): The only hotel located directly on the airport island.
• Hotel Jen Malé by Shangri-La: A premium stay in the capital with a short speedboat ride from the airport.
• Maagiri Hotel & Mookai Hotel: Popular business and transit hotels in Male City.
• Nearby island guesthouses & resorts: Many offer complimentary airport transfers.

What are some of the facilities at the Maldives Airport?

Velana International Airport is equipped with modern services and facilities, including:

• VIP and business lounges (Leeli Lounge, Koimala Lounge)
• Duty-free shopping and souvenir stores
• Restaurants, cafes, and snack bars
• Currency exchange, ATMs, and banking services
• Free Wi-Fi and charging stations
• Medical center and pharmacy
• Baggage handling and porter services
• Dedicated counters for resort check-ins and transfers

What is the e-Gate scanning system?

The e-Gate system at Velana International Airport is an automated border control system for Maldivian passport holders and eligible travelers. It allows for faster immigration processing by scanning the passport and verifying identity through facial recognition or fingerprint data, significantly reducing wait times.

What are the transport options available from the airport?

Transportation from the top airports in the Maldives includes:

• Speedboat Transfers: Available for nearby resort islands and local islands.
• Seaplane Transfers: Operated by Trans Maldivian Airways and Manta Air for further resorts.
• Domestic Flights: To regional airports across the Maldives.
• Ferries: To Male City, running every 10-15 minutes.
• Taxis: Available on Hulhulé Island and in Male after ferry transfer.

What is the duration for which the Maldives tourist visa lasts?

All nationalities receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival in the Maldives, completely free of charge. This visa can be extended up to a total of 90 days, subject to approval by the Maldives Immigration Authority. 

To obtain an extension, visitors must apply before their initial visa expires, provide a valid reason for the request, and demonstrate sufficient financial means to support their extended stay in the country.

What are a few of the items that cannot be brought into the Maldives?

The Maldives has strict customs regulations. Prohibited items include:

• Alcoholic beverages (only available at resorts)
• Pork and pork products
• Religious materials for proselytization
• Pornographic material
• Drugs and narcotics
• Explosives or weapons

Any such items will be confiscated at the airport.

What procedures should be followed if some items of belonging get lost inside the Maldives Airport?

If you lose an item at the airport, visit the Lost & Found counter at the terminal. Alternatively, contact the airport’s general information desk or email them via the official Velana Airport website.

How much is 1 MVR in INR?

As of the latest exchange rate (subject to change), 1 Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) is ₹5.40 INR.

Which airport should I fly into in the Maldives?

The primary airport for international travelers is Velana International Airport (MLE). It is one of the major airports in the Maldives that you can choose to fly into.