Latest news with #MohamedSaifAlSuwaidi
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Second airport backed by Abu Dhabi inaugurated in the Maldives with AED 330.5 million investment
The Velana International Airport project was co-financed by ADFD alongside the Saudi Fund for Development, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and OPEC Fund for International Development/ Image: WAM The Republic of Maldives and the United Arab Emirates have marked another milestone in a longstanding partnership centered on sustainable development and infrastructure enhancement. Over four decades of cooperation through the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has seen the successful implementation of critical projects across sectors like tourism, energy, transportation, and healthcare. Most recently, two significant aviation projects, Maafaru International Airport earlier this month and Velana International Airport today, stand as the latest additions to a portfolio exceeding AED 1.11 billion (approx. USD 302 million). These projects are not only infrastructural upgrades but also strategic interventions to enhance connectivity, drive economic growth, and position Maldives as a global hub. Velana Airport Inaugurated on Maldives' 60th Independence Anniversary The Government of Maldives today inaugurated the Velana International Airport, a flagship development aligned with the country's strategic infrastructure goals, with participation from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) highlighting its key role in the project. The event coincided with the 60th anniversary of the Maldives' independence, adding symbolic significance to the unveiling of this high-impact development. The airport's transformation was made possible by a total investment of AED 330.5 million (USD 90 million) from ADFD, executed in two phases, and co-financed by the Saudi Fund for Development, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and the OPEC Fund for International Development. This multi-stakeholder cooperation highlights a shared commitment among Gulf-based development partners to support inclusive and sustainable growth in developing nations. The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of prominent leaders and officials, including: Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi , Director-General of ADFD Rahma bin Abdulrahman Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Maldives Senior representatives from the partnering development funds and both governments The upgraded Velana Airport can now accommodate over 7 million passengers annually, a major boost to the nation's capacity to handle international travel and tourism. Key features of the project include: Expansion of the western passenger terminal Installation of 26 passenger boarding bridges Development of a state-of-the-art international terminal. These infrastructure upgrades aim to position Velana International Airport as a vital commercial, tourism, and investment hub in the Indian Ocean, enhancing the Maldives' global competitiveness in aviation and hospitality. During the inauguration, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu expressed heartfelt gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for the enduring support shown by the UAE towards the Maldives' development goals. 'ADFD's financing of Velana International Airport, in partnership with international collaborators, reflects our shared commitment to achieving sustainable development goals and demonstrates a long-term strategic vision for infrastructure development and growth in developing nations. The opening of this airport will further enhance the Maldives' position in the global aviation sector,' he said, adding that the project marks a key step in strengthening the country's global aviation presence. Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, highlighted the significance of the collaboration as a model for regional cooperation in sustainable development: 'Through our partnership with the Government of Maldives and regional development institutions, we have collectively contributed to the country's economic and social growth. Coinciding with the Maldives' Independence Day celebrations, the inauguration of Velana International Airport underscores our ongoing commitment to ensuring greater resource efficiency and supporting our partner nations to build a resilient economy and prosperous future,' he said, noting that the project reflects ADFD's broader mission to support impactful, long-term growth in partner countries. Maafaru Airport Sets the Stage for Regional Connectivity The Velana project follows the recent launch of Maafaru International Airport on 8th July 2025, another high-impact ADFD-funded initiative aimed at improving access to the country's northern islands and luxury resorts. Constructed with an investment of AED 367 million (USD 100 million), Maafaru Airport includes a 2,850-metre-long and 45-metre-wide runway, capable of receiving large wide-body aircraft including Airbus A330 and Boeing 777. The airport is designed to serve as a key gateway to seven surrounding luxury resorts, playing a pivotal role in driving tourism revenue and employment in the region. The inauguration ceremony was attended by: Mohamed Saeed, Minister of Economic Development and Trade of the Maldives Dr. Abdulla Muththalib , Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD During the event, Minister Mohamed Saeed extended his appreciation to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, noting the strategic value of the bilateral relationship and the UAE's unwavering commitment to supporting sustainable development in the Maldives. He also acknowledged ADFD's vital role in helping the country implement transformative projects and strengthen key economic sectors such as transport and tourism. Partnership Built Over Four Decades The Maldives' development partnership with the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) began in 1978. Since then, ADFD has financed 11 strategic projects across vital sectors such as transportation, tourism, energy, and healthcare, with total investments exceeding AED 1.11 billion (USD 302 million). The recently inaugurated airport projects are a continuation of this enduring collaboration, aligning with the Maldives' national development agenda and the UAE's broader vision for international cooperation and sustainable growth. Established in 1971, ADFD is one of the UAE's leading financial institutions, focused on supporting infrastructure development in emerging economies. The Fund manages UAE government grants for key strategic projects and follows a diversified investment strategy that enhances economic resilience in partner countries. It also finances UAE-based private sector companies to help expand their global reach and competitiveness.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Abu Dhabi-backed Velana International Airport in Maldives inaugurated with AED 330.5 million investment
The Velana International Airport project was co-financed by ADFD alongside the Saudi Fund for Development, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and OPEC Fund for International Development/ Image: WAM The Republic of Maldives and the United Arab Emirates have marked another milestone in a longstanding partnership centered on sustainable development and infrastructure enhancement. Over four decades of cooperation through the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has seen the successful implementation of critical projects across sectors like tourism, energy, transportation, and healthcare. Most recently, two significant aviation projects, Maafaru International Airport earlier this month and Velana International Airport today, stand as the latest additions to a portfolio exceeding AED 1.11 billion (approx. USD 302 million). These projects are not only infrastructural upgrades but also strategic interventions to enhance connectivity, drive economic growth, and position Maldives as a global hub. Velana Airport Inaugurated on Maldives' 60th Independence Anniversary The Government of Maldives today inaugurated the Velana International Airport, a flagship development aligned with the country's strategic infrastructure goals, with participation from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) highlighting its key role in the project. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo The event coincided with the 60th anniversary of the Maldives' independence, adding symbolic significance to the unveiling of this high-impact development. The airport's transformation was made possible by a total investment of AED 330.5 million (USD 90 million) from ADFD, executed in two phases, and co-financed by the Saudi Fund for Development, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and the OPEC Fund for International Development. This multi-stakeholder cooperation highlights a shared commitment among Gulf-based development partners to support inclusive and sustainable growth in developing nations. The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of prominent leaders and officials, including: Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi , Director-General of ADFD Rahma bin Abdulrahman Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Maldives Senior representatives from the partnering development funds and both governments The upgraded Velana Airport can now accommodate over 7 million passengers annually, a major boost to the nation's capacity to handle international travel and tourism. Key features of the project include: Expansion of the western passenger terminal Installation of 26 passenger boarding bridges Development of a state-of-the-art international terminal. These infrastructure upgrades aim to position Velana International Airport as a vital commercial, tourism, and investment hub in the Indian Ocean, enhancing the Maldives' global competitiveness in aviation and hospitality. During the inauguration, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu expressed heartfelt gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for the enduring support shown by the UAE towards the Maldives' development goals. 'ADFD's financing of Velana International Airport, in partnership with international collaborators, reflects our shared commitment to achieving sustainable development goals and demonstrates a long-term strategic vision for infrastructure development and growth in developing nations. The opening of this airport will further enhance the Maldives' position in the global aviation sector,' he said, adding that the project marks a key step in strengthening the country's global aviation presence. Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, highlighted the significance of the collaboration as a model for regional cooperation in sustainable development: 'Through our partnership with the Government of Maldives and regional development institutions, we have collectively contributed to the country's economic and social growth. Coinciding with the Maldives' Independence Day celebrations, the inauguration of Velana International Airport underscores our ongoing commitment to ensuring greater resource efficiency and supporting our partner nations to build a resilient economy and prosperous future,' he said, noting that the project reflects ADFD's broader mission to support impactful, long-term growth in partner countries. Maafaru Airport Sets the Stage for Regional Connectivity The Velana project follows the recent launch of Maafaru International Airport on 8th July 2025, another high-impact ADFD-funded initiative aimed at improving access to the country's northern islands and luxury resorts. Constructed with an investment of AED 367 million (USD 100 million), Maafaru Airport includes a 2,850-metre-long and 45-metre-wide runway, capable of receiving large wide-body aircraft including Airbus A330 and Boeing 777. The airport is designed to serve as a key gateway to seven surrounding luxury resorts, playing a pivotal role in driving tourism revenue and employment in the region. The inauguration ceremony was attended by: Mohamed Saeed, Minister of Economic Development and Trade of the Maldives Dr. Abdulla Muththalib , Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD During the event, Minister Mohamed Saeed extended his appreciation to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, noting the strategic value of the bilateral relationship and the UAE's unwavering commitment to supporting sustainable development in the Maldives. He also acknowledged ADFD's vital role in helping the country implement transformative projects and strengthen key economic sectors such as transport and tourism. Partnership Built Over Four Decades The Maldives' development partnership with the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) began in 1978. Since then, ADFD has financed 11 strategic projects across vital sectors such as transportation, tourism, energy, and healthcare, with total investments exceeding AED 1.11 billion (USD 302 million). The recently inaugurated airport projects are a continuation of this enduring collaboration, aligning with the Maldives' national development agenda and the UAE's broader vision for international cooperation and sustainable growth. Established in 1971, ADFD is one of the UAE's leading financial institutions, focused on supporting infrastructure development in emerging economies. The Fund manages UAE government grants for key strategic projects and follows a diversified investment strategy that enhances economic resilience in partner countries. It also finances UAE-based private sector companies to help expand their global reach and competitiveness.
Gulf Today
2 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
ADFD advances Maldives aviation sector through inauguration of Velana International Airport project
Aligned with its commitment to its strategic sustainable development goals, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) participated in the inauguration of the Velana International Airport, a landmark project that aims to significantly enhance Maldives' infrastructure. With a total investment of Dhs 330.5 million (USD 90 million) from ADFD, the project was implemented in two phases, receiving co-financing from Saudi Fund for Development, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and OPEC Fund for International Development. This cooperation highlights the shared commitment of regional development institutions to support high impact projects in developing nations to contribute to an inclusive, sustainable growth. Attending the inauguration ceremony, which coincided with Maldives' 60th independence anniversary, were Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives, Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, and Rahma Bin Abdulrahman Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Maldives, along with senior officials from both nations and from Saudi Fund for Development, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and OPEC Fund for International Development. ADFD's funding played a critical role in enhancing the operational capacity of Velana International Airport, accommodating over 7 million passengers annually meeting the nation's growing travel demand. The project included the expansion of the airport's western passenger terminal, the implementation of 26 passenger boarding bridges, and the construction of a state-of-the-art international terminal. These enhancements reinforce the Maldives' position as a key hub for commercial, tourism, and investment activities, and underscore the Fund's commitment to supporting impactful, sustainable projects that improve the quality of life in communities. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives, during the ceremony, expressed his sincere appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for the continuous support from the UAE to advance Maldives' national goals. He said: 'ADFD's financing of Velana International Airport, in partnership with international collaborators, reflects our shared commitment to achieving sustainable development goals and demonstrates a long-term strategic vision for infrastructure development and growth in developing nations. The opening of this airport will further enhance the Maldives' position in the global aviation sector.' Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, highlighted that this collaborative development is a testament to ADFD's dedication to supporting the sustainable development goals of its partner nations. He reaffirmed the Fund's mission towards strengthening strategic partnerships between regional development institutions and international organizations, fostering broader and more sustainable developmental impacts. Al Suwaidi said: 'Through our partnership with the Government of Maldives and regional development institutions, we have collectively contributed to country's economic and social growth. Coinciding with the Maldives' Independence Day celebrations, the inauguration of Velana International Airport underscores our ongoing commitment to ensuring greater resource efficiency and supporting our partner nations to build a resilient economy and prosperous future.' ADFD's partnership with Maldives dates to 1978. Over the past four decades, the Fund financed 11 strategic projects with a total investment of Dhs 1.11 billion, spanning across key sectors including transportation, tourism, healthcare, and energy. ADFD played a critical role in supporting Maldives' economic activities and enabling the country to achieve its sustainable development objectives. WAM
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi Fund for Development advances Maldives aviation sector through inauguration of Velana International Airport project
27 July 2025 15:20 MALÉ (WAM)Aligned with its commitment to its strategic sustainable development goals, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) participated in the inauguration of the Velana International Airport, a landmark project that aims to significantly enhance Maldives' a total investment of Dh330.5 million ($90 million) from ADFD, the project was implemented in two phases, receiving co-financing from Saudi Fund for Development, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and OPEC Fund for International Development. This cooperation highlights the shared commitment of regional development institutions to support high impact projects in developing nations to contribute to an inclusive, sustainable the inauguration ceremony, which coincided with Maldives' 60th independence anniversary, were Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives, Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, and Rahma bin Abdulrahman Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Maldives, along with senior officials from both nations and from Saudi Fund for Development, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, and OPEC Fund for International funding played a critical role in enhancing the operational capacity of Velana International Airport, accommodating over seven million passengers annually meeting the nation's growing travel project included the expansion of the airport's western passenger terminal, the implementation of 26 passenger boarding bridges, and the construction of a state-of-the-art international terminal. These enhancements reinforce the Maldives' position as a key hub for commercial, tourism, and investment activities, and underscore the ADFD's commitment to supporting impactful, sustainable projects that improve the quality of life in Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives, during the ceremony, expressed his sincere appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for the continuous support from the UAE to advance Maldives' national said: 'ADFD's financing of Velana International Airport, in partnership with international collaborators, reflects our shared commitment to achieving sustainable development goals, and demonstrates a long-term strategic vision for infrastructure development and growth in developing nations. The opening of this airport will further enhance the Maldives' position in the global aviation sector.'Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, highlighted that this collaborative development is a testament to ADFD's dedication to supporting the sustainable development goals of its partner nations. He reaffirmed the fund's mission towards strengthening strategic partnerships between regional development institutions and international organisations, fostering broader and more sustainable developmental Suwaidi said: 'Through our partnership with the Government of Maldives and regional development institutions, we have collectively contributed to country's economic and social growth. Coinciding with the Maldives' Independence Day celebrations, the inauguration of Velana International Airport underscores our ongoing commitment to ensuring greater resource efficiency, and supporting our partner nations to build a resilient economy and prosperous future.'ADFD's partnership with Maldives dates to 1978. Over the past four decades, the fund has financed 11 strategic projects with a total investment of Dh1.11 billion, spanning across key sectors including transportation, tourism, healthcare, and energy. ADFD played a critical role in supporting Maldives' economic activities and enabling the country to achieve its sustainable development objectives.
Mid East Info
21-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi: Union Pledge Day is a Moment to Renew Our Commitment to National Values
Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi: Following in the footsteps of the Founding Fathers… we will maintain the values of loyalty and affiliation His Excellency Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development ADFD, said: 'Union Pledge Day is a historic occasion on which we honor the vision and dedication of the UAE's Founding Fathers, and their pivotal role in shaping our national identity, promoting and embedding the values and principles that continue to guide the country's developments journey. It is a day to renew our pledge of loyalty and service, and to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the UAE remains a leader on both the national and international stage.' 'On Union Pledge Day, we reaffirm our resolve to move forward with confidence toward greater achievements, inspired by the legacy of our Founding Fathers and guided by the vision of our wise leadership. They instil in us the belief that unity is the foundation of strength and success. At Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, we remain steadfast in fulfilling our development mission with dedication and purpose, ensuring that the UAE continues to thrive and shape a future that reflects the ambitions of its people,' His Excellency added.
