Airport for private jets to be developed in Vaavu atoll

Mar 26, 2026, 5:52 AM

A special airport for private jets, named Aman International Private Airport, is being developed in Dhiggaru lagoon of Vaavu atoll.

The Vaavu jet airport is being developed by Global Ace Maldives, a joint venture between businessman Mohamed Ali Janah and two foreign companies.

Foreign holdings in Global Ace are AG East 2 DMCC and Sandstorm Collective. The Sandstorm Collective is believed to be linked to Aman Resorts, which is developing a resort in Fohtheyo lagoon of Vaavu atoll.

The Managing Director of Global Ace is the Chief Development Officer of Aman Resorts, Shan Tjio. The company's board consists of Tijo and Janah.

According to the EIA report, an area of 134 hectares will be reclaimed from the lagoon. All the sand for this project will be taken from the lagoon.

The previous government started searching for contractor to develop an airport in Dhigurah lagoon during the presidential election campaign in 2023.

This was first announced when former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih visited Vaavu atoll for a campaign and announced the Aman Resorts project.

Comments

Fishing in the north slows down due to high oil prices

Apr 2

Budget surplus at MVR 2 billion in first ten weeks

Mar 28

MIB board approves a dividend of MVR 129 million

Mar 26

BML seeks license to open branch in Sri Lanka

Mar 25

Latest News

Russian Travel Union seeks exemption from new tax rules

The Russian Travel Union has asked the Maldives to exempt its tour operators from new tax rules requiring them to pay Tourism Goods and Services Tax on final sales. The union argues that taxing business activities conducted within Russia is legally impossible and lacks a practical mechanism for foreign oversight.

BML caps monthly dollar ATM withdrawals at USD 3500

Bank of Maldives has capped monthly dollar ATM withdrawals at $3,500 per customer to address currency shortages and promote digital banking. While cash withdrawals are restricted, daily card transaction limits remain at $1,600. The bank aims to reduce cash reliance by encouraging the use of its mobile and internet banking platforms.

Mihad and Sahar removed from MACL board

The Maldives Privatization and Corporatisation Board has removed Mohamed Mihad and Sahar Waheed from the board of the Maldives Airports Company Limited. No specific reasons were provided for their dismissal. Both individuals hold high-level executive positions at other major Maldivian institutions.

Tourist arrival figures still lag behind last year

The Maldives has reached 1.5 million tourist arrivals, yet figures remain 50,000 behind last year due to Middle East conflict impacts. With current trends lagging, the government is unlikely to meet its annual target of 2.4 million visitors. Tax changes and regional instability continue to create uncertainty for the tourism industry.

Illy Golden Hour Series Launches in Maldives

SIMDI Resu and JEN Maldives are celebrating International Coffee Day on October 1, 2026, with the launch of the illy Golden Hour Series. The event features a masterclass and DIY drink stations to showcase new coffee creations. These specialty beverages will be available at various cafes and restaurants across the Maldives.

No solution in sight for the US dollar crisis: Nasheed

Former President Mohamed Nasheed warns that the Maldives' dollar crisis remains unresolved as exchange rates climb and businesses struggle to import goods. Despite government mandates for resorts to convert foreign currency, Nasheed claims these measures have failed to provide relief, leaving the public to bear the economic burden.

Rip Curl store opens in Maafushi

SIMDI Group has expanded its retail presence in the Maldives by opening a new Rip Curl store in K. Maafushi. The outlet offers a wide range of authentic surf and lifestyle apparel for men, women, and children. To celebrate the launch, the store is offering a grand opening promotion with discounts of up to 40% storewide.

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox