Maafaru COVID-19 lab reopens after upgrade, offers free tests for Maldivians

The COVID-19 lab established in Maafaru International Airport in N. Atoll by Soneva Foundation and Velaa Private Resort has reopened after temporary closure for upgrade, and is offering 100 complimentary tests for Maldivians every day.

In a statement on Sunday, Soneva Foundation said that the lab has been reopened after an upgrade to increase testing capacity.

Soneva said that the rate for tests has been reduced from USD 55 to USD 40 – the lowest charged by any laboratory in Maldives.

“The intention of the Maafaru laboratory has always been to be of service to the local community, and has provided tests to resorts and local islands in Baa, Raa, Lhaviyani and Noonu atolls,” said Soneva in its statement.

Soneva said that no dividend has been derived from the lab to date, and that any surplus revenue generated will be split between Velaa Private Resort and Soneva Foundation.

The lab is also offering complimentary training to nurses at resorts to teach them how to take samples and submit them to the lab for testing.

Soneva said that the Maafaru lab intends to find ways to further lower the cost charged per test, encouraging more extensive testing in resorts.