Travelers asked to arrive early at VIA on Friday as hundreds of pilgrims set to return

Hundreds of pilgrims are set to return from the umrah pilgrimage on Friday, prompting the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) to advise outbound travelers to arrive early at the Velana International Airport (VIA) as it anticipates heavy traffic.

In a press statement on Thursday, the MACL said that over 1,000 pilgrims are set to return from umrah in Saudi Arabia on Friday. The airport said it anticipates it will create heavy traffic along airport’s roads and within terminal areas.

“Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to their scheduled departure to ensure a smooth travel experience,” said the MACL.

Peak times on Friday:

• 06:00 am to 09:00 am

Expected arrivals: 2,678 (including 618 umrah pilgrims)

Expected departures: 1,372

• 02:00 pm to 04:00 pm

Expected arrivals: 2,071 (including 452 umrah pilgrims)

 Expected departures: 1,091

The MACL also requested all taxi centers and drivers to extend their cooperation during peak times by ensuring timely pick-ups and drop-offs, and maintaining traffic flow around the airport premises.