The operation was carried out by MACL’s Passenger Services, Terminal Services and Estate Security Services teams in coordination with other airport stakeholders.
MACL
Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has completed a dedicated operation to facilitate the departure of Umrah pilgrims travelling through Velana International Airport (VIA) during July, with more than 5,565 pilgrims served throughout the operation.
The final group of pilgrims departed on Wednesday, marking the conclusion of the special arrangements put in place during one of the airport’s busiest travel periods of the year.
The operation was carried out by MACL’s Passenger Services, Terminal Services and Estate Security Services teams in coordination with other airport stakeholders. The measures were introduced to streamline the departure process and manage passenger flows associated with the large pilgrim groups.
For groups consisting of more than 100 pilgrims, MACL provided pre-check-in facilities one day before their scheduled departure. Through this arrangement, passengers were able to complete baggage acceptance and check-in procedures and receive their boarding passes in advance. MACL also worked with Maldives Immigration to facilitate advance passport clearance for these groups.
Additional measures were implemented inside the terminal on the day of departure. Pilgrims were directed through a dedicated terminal entrance, while separate immigration counters, security screening lanes and X-ray machines were allocated to the groups to help minimise waiting times and congestion.
Outside the terminal, MACL also introduced arrangements to manage traffic and passenger movement, including vehicle access, taxi queues and routes for arriving and departing vehicles.
According to MACL, the measures enabled regular airport operations to continue without major disruption throughout the period.
The airport operator expressed its appreciation to Maldives Immigration, airlines, travel agencies, Umrah groups, airport stakeholders and other institutions involved in supporting the operation and facilitating the movement of pilgrims through VIA.
