USD 750M airport development project at Villingili awarded to Besix

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) pertaining to the development of an international airport at GA. Villingili – the most significant electoral pledge by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to the island – was signed on Thursday.

The MoU was signed during a meeting President Muizzu held with Villingili residents as part of his ongoing tour of Gaafu Alifu Atoll.

Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muthalib signed the MoU on behalf of the Maldivian government.

The project, valued between USD 500 and USD 750, was awarded to to French-Belgian company, Besix Construction.

Notably, the company had undertaken the Burj Khalifa project; the tallest highrise in the world. 

At the completion of this project:

• 17 resorts will be developed, creating approximately 5,000 beds
• High-end marinas will be established
• An airport measuring over 2,000 meters in length will be established
• A helipad will be established

Speaking at Villingili during his presidential campaign – President Muizzu said his vision was to develop an international airport at Villingili and Ekefaru which will proceed alongside an integrated tourism project.

Back then, the President said Kooddoo Airport would be transformed into a training centre.

On Tuesday, a Thai contractor was awarded the development of an international airport after reclaiming land from the lagoon of Thinadhoo City.

In addition to building the airport, the contractor will also invest in the development of 12 resorts – which will create 2,000 new tourist beds.