Velana International Airport
Male, Maldives · Since 1966
Last updated:
About MLE
Velana International Airport is the main international airport of the Maldives, located on Hulhulé Island adjacent to the capital Malé. It is the primary gateway for the millions of tourists visiting the Maldives' luxury resorts. A new seaplane terminal and water villa-style VIP terminal reflect the unique island character. Speedboat and seaplane transfers depart directly from the airport to resorts across the atolls.
Hub For
Maldivian, Trans Maldivian Airways (seaplane)
Terminals
International Terminal
The main terminal handling all international flights. Features duty-free shops, Maldivian craft stores, and restaurants. Connected to the seaplane terminal and speedboat jetty.
Domestic Terminal
Handles domestic flights to island airstrips across the Maldives. Adjacent to the Trans Maldivian Airways seaplane terminal.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at MLE
Maldivian
Domestic Terminal Hub
Aeroflot
Air Arabia
Air Astana
Air France
Air India
AirAsia
Austrian Airlines
Showing 8 of 43 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Speedboats to resorts, seaplanes, domestic flights, ferry to Malé, taxis on Hulhumalé
Taxi
$2-3 (ferry) + $2 taxi in Malé
15-20 min total to city center
Public Transport
$1-2
10-15 min (ferry) to city center
Parking at MLE
Limited parking. Most travelers transfer directly to boats or seaplanes....
Airport Parking
Hulhumalé Parking
Airport Lounges
CIP Terminal (VIP)
International Terminal
Exclusive water villa-style VIP terminal offering premium check-in, spa, shower, dining, and direct speedboat departure. Used by luxury resort guests.
Moonimaa Lounge
International Terminal
Modern lounge in the international terminal with Maldivian and international cuisine, shower facilities, and rest areas. No alcohol (Maldives is a Muslim country). Views over the lagoon.
Leeli Lounge
International Terminal
Departure lounge offering local snacks including Maldivian fish curry, short eats, and fresh juices. Comfortable seating area.
Where to Stay
Connected Hotels
Hulhulé Island Hotel
On the airport island, 5-minute walk from terminal
The only hotel on the airport island. Beach access, pool, and multiple restaurants. Perfect for seaplane transfers the next morning. Day rooms available.
Nearby Hotels
Arena Beach Hotel Hulhumalé
Hulhumalé, 15 minutes via bridge
Budget beach hotel on Hulhumalé. Beach access, restaurants, and easy airport access via the Sinamalé Bridge.
Food & Dining
The Kitchen
Maldivian/International
International Terminal (Airside)
Main airport restaurant serving Maldivian fish curry, mas huni, grilled fish, and international options. Open around the clock for late-night arrivals.
24 hours
Café Aromas
Café/Light Meals
International Terminal (Landside)
Coffee shop with espresso drinks, fresh juices, sandwiches, and Maldivian short eats (hedhikaa). Good for a quick bite.
5:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Domestic Terminal Café
Maldivian
Domestic Terminal (Landside)
Simple café serving local dishes, roshi (flatbread), and tea. Authentic and affordable.
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Car Rental
Avis Maldives
International Terminal, Arrivals
Very limited use in the Maldives. Only practical on Hulhumalé and Addu Atoll. Most visitors do not need a car.
STO Rent-a-Car
Airport area
Local company. Cars only useful for Hulhumalé and Malé. Scooter rentals also available for Hulhumalé.
What to Do During a Layover
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Hulhumalé Beach
Cross the Sinamalé Bridge to the reclaimed island of Hulhumalé for a swim at the public beach. Bikini-friendly unlike local islands. Restaurants and cafés nearby.
Malé City Walking Tour
Explore the compact capital: visit the Grand Friday Mosque with its golden dome, the Maldives National Museum, and the vibrant fish market. Take the airport ferry to Malé.
Snorkeling Day Trip
Join a half-day snorkeling trip from Malé to nearby reefs and sandbars. See tropical fish, rays, and possibly reef sharks. Book through local operators.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (30 minutes)
- Speed Rating: ●●●○○
- Power Outlets: Type G (British), Type C
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: $5-10 per bag per day
- Showers: $10 (in CIP lounge)
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
Money & Currency
- Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), USD widely accepted
- Exchange: Arrivals hall in international terminal, domestic terminal
- Hours: 24 hours (aligned with international flights)
- Tipping: Tipping is appreciated in resorts. $5-10/day for room staff is common. Service charge is usually included at resorts.
US Dollars are accepted everywhere in the Maldives. No need to exchange large amounts. Resorts bill in USD.
Smoking Areas
Outdoor designated areas outside the terminal
Insider Tips
Most resort guests are met by their resort representative at arrivals. Seaplane transfers only operate during daylight hours - if arriving at night, you may need to stay in a Hulhumalé hotel. Book resort transfers in advance as they are expensive ($200-600 per person round trip for distant atolls).
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, restaurants, prayer rooms, VIP lounges, speedboat terminal, seaplane terminal