Travelers Can Now Look For Velana International Airport

After a cabinet meeting held on 26th December 2016, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom made the decision to rebrand Ibrahim Nasir International Airport to Velana International Airport. In order to focus on the transformation of the airport in line with the Administration’s economic vision, the decision was made after consulting with the cabinet members.

At a ceremony held at Hulhulé on 31st December 2016, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom inaugurated Velana International Airport. In the event, Minister of Economic Development, Mohamed Saeed handed over the Aerodrome license of Velana International Airport to the Maldives Airports Company Limited by the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. During the ceremony the President lit the signboard of Velana International Airport to make the change official.

With the rebranding, the airport’s name has changed to “Velana International Airport”. While concise, “Velana” is also a reference to former Prime Minister, Sumuvvul Ameer Ibrahim Nasir Rannabandeyrikilegefaanu.

When Ibrahim Nasir International Airport was first developed in pursuant to a deceleration on 1st May 1964, it had been an essential element to developing and strengthening several key foreign relations as well as enhancing the country’s economy. The Prime Minister Sumuvvul Ameer Ibrahim Nasir Rannabandeyrikilegefaanu played a critical role in realizing the airport, along with support and involvement of the public.

With the airport recently being leased, it had cost the Maldives a great sum. The impending decline has been avoided with legal complications and the control of the nation’s most important airport has been restored and with plans in favor of national improvements.

The airport is undergoing a lot of enhancements and expansions in line with President Yameen’s vision. These improvements are meant to reinvigorate the nation’s economy; similar to the economic transformation brought about by the initial development of 1964. When the transformation is complete, the tourism industry in Maldives I said to see significant growth and at the same time would work towards being recognized as a major hub for distance travel.

As of 1st January 2017, the name change of INIA to Velana International Airport came into effect. Maldivian Airlines was the first flight to touch down at the Airport.

If you think luxury and the city don’t mix, think again. The bustling capital of the Maldives just welcomed a game-changer in hospitality: Barceló Nasandhura Malé, the city’s first-ever five-star hotel. Located in the heart of Malé, where ocean breeze meets urban rhythm, this stunning new property now offers guests a rare fusion of indulgence and convenience. Whether you’re visiting for business or seeking a refined island-city getaway, here are five compelling reasons to make Barceló Nasandhura your go-to destination for your next Maldivian visit.

1. An Unbeatable Location That Brings Everything Closer

Just 10 minutes from Velana International Airport and directly opposite the Henveiru Ferry Terminal, Barceló Nasandhura delivers something few others in Malé can: seamless connectivity without sacrificing tranquility. As a result, this prime location lets both business travelers and tourists transition from plane to paradise in record time. Step out of the busy city streets and into a peaceful haven, where the rhythm of the waves plays counterpoint to the urban hum just beyond the lobby doors.

2. City Sophistication Meets Seaside Serenity

Barceló Nasandhura stands apart with its architectural elegance and thoughtful design: a blend of modern sophistication and Maldivian charm. Moreover, the hotel curates each room and apartment as a sanctuary. From the minimalist lines of the Superior Ocean View rooms to the sprawling three-bedroom penthouses with panoramic views, every space floods with natural light and invites you to unplug in style. Whether you’re staying for a few days or settling in for an extended visit, the serviced apartments deliver all the comforts of a high-end home in paradise.

3. A Culinary Journey Worth Booking a Room For

Barceló Nasandhura doesn’t just serve food, it indulges you. With three signature restaurants and two stylish bars, the hotel transforms dining into a destination. For instance, you can grab a morning brew or light snack at Alimas Café, dive into a rich international buffet at Oivaru, or savor bold flavors at Dons, the in-house Chinese restaurant with unbeatable sea views. Then, head up to BHeaven, the rooftop lounge where sunset mocktails meet a panoramic skyline, or unwind by the city’s only oceanfront pool with a refreshing drink in hand. In short, dining here goes beyond necessity it becomes an experience.

4. Wellness Experiences That Recharge You

Barceló Nasandhura brings the wellness retreat to the city, so you don’t need to rush off to remote islands. The on-site Mandara Spa offers six serene treatment rooms, where world-class massages and facials melt away every trace of stress. If you prefer to sweat it out, the fully equipped fitness center, complete with ocean-facing windows, turns workouts into moments of calm and clarity. Ultimately, whether you want to relax, rejuvenate, or reinvigorate, the hotel supports your mind, body, and soul.

5. A New Standard for Business and Events

Barceló Nasandhura offers more than just a comfortable stay for business travelers, it provides a smart strategic base. Notably, with over 1,000 square meters of flexible event space, including meeting rooms, exhibition areas, and ballrooms that host up to 600 guests, the hotel meets the demands of MICE events. Guests can also enjoy the sea view from the Ari room and seamless access to a sleek buffet hall next to the wedding venue. In this way, Barceló Nasandhura merges luxury with logistics, ensuring your professional trip feels as seamless as it is stylish.

The Final Word: More Than a Stay, It’s a Statement

Barceló Nasandhura Malé doesn’t just elevate hospitality in the Maldives, it redefines it. With its strategic location, thoughtful design, high-end amenities, and warm service, the hotel proves you can enjoy both the energy of Malé and the serenity of the Maldives in one unforgettable experience. So, whether you’re planning your next business trip, a romantic escape, or a long-term stay with all the perks of a luxury apartment, Barceló Nasandhura stands ready to welcome you into a new era of urban island living.

So why settle for ordinary when you can check in to extraordinary?

Travelers Can Now Look For Velana International Airport

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