Government selects Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo for second Laamu Atoll airport

Jun 25, 2026, 4:15 PM
An aerial view of Isdhoo: Kalaidhoo is geographically linked to this island. -- Photo: Local Government Authority

An aerial view of Isdhoo: Kalaidhoo is geographically linked to this island. -- Photo: Local Government Authority

The government has officially announced its decision to develop a second airport in Laamu Atoll, to be located in the Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo area.

The atoll already has an airport at Kadhdhoo, situated between the islands of Fonadhoo and Gan. Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo are two islands located at the northernmost tip of the atoll, with Isdhoo spanning 128 hectares and Kalaidhoo covering 233 hectares.

The establishment of a second airport in Laamu Atoll was a key campaign pledge of President Mohamed Muizzu. However, until now, the administration had not specified the location for the project.

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had also pledged to build a second airport in the atoll during his re-election campaign. At the time, demonstrations were held calling for the airport to be built near Maavah. However, Maavah is geographically isolated from the majority of the atoll’s inhabited islands.

Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo are among the most populous islands in the atoll. Currently, residents must undertake a 45-minute sea journey to reach Kadhdhoo Airport.

While the government has confirmed Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo as the site for the new airport, further details regarding the project’s execution and timeline have yet to be disclosed.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Maaniu appointed to Greater Male' Transport and Mobility Office

Former Customs chief Yoosuf Maaniu has been appointed to lead the new Greater Male' Transport and Mobility Office to address the capital's traffic crisis. The office will implement a vehicle registration quota system and draft a Mobility Reform Plan. These emergency measures under the Land Transport Act will remain in effect for three years.

Malaysian Prime Minister concludes visit to Maldives

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim concluded his visit to the Maldives after signing MoUs on defense and religion. The nations agreed to a $100 million currency swap and initiated talks on a trade agreement. Discussions also covered energy exploration by Petronas, renewable energy, and streamlining visa services to boost bilateral cooperation.

Some companies used black market profits to fund payrolls: Saeed

Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed alleges that large companies are using massive black market dollar profits to fund their entire payrolls. He claims these businesses artificially manipulate exchange rates, driving up the cost of living. The government is now cracking down on these illicit activities to restore market stability.

Maldives invites Petronas to explore offshore energy reserves

The Maldives has invited Malaysian energy giant Petronas to explore for oil, gas, and minerals within its territorial waters. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed confidence in the company's expertise to handle the project. This follows a recent cabinet decision to establish a legal framework for resource extraction in the nation's EEZ.

Maldives and Malaysia to pursue trade agreement

The Maldives and Malaysia have agreed to begin talks on a Preferential Trade Agreement to boost economic ties and business opportunities. The nations also signed MoUs on defense and Islamic affairs while pledging to collaborate on tourism and halal industry development. President Muizzu further invited Malaysian investment in key sectors.

Malaysia pledges $100 million financial facility to Maldives

Malaysia will provide a $100 million financial facility to the Maldives following a request from the Maldives Monetary Authority. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed the deal during a bilateral visit with President Mohamed Muizzu. The nations also signed agreements to strengthen cooperation in defense and religious affairs.

Two MoUs signed between the Maldives and Malaysia

The Maldives and Malaysia signed two Memorandums of Understanding to enhance bilateral cooperation in defense and Islamic affairs. These agreements, signed during Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s visit, build on a long-standing diplomatic partnership established in 1968 and follow previous collaborations in various sectors.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox