A new F&B complex with world’s top fast food franchises will be opened at the Maldives main Velana International Airport in October, state airport operator Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) announced Thursday.
MACL Managing Director Adil Moosa told state broadcaster Public Service Media (PSM) that assembling the steel structure for the 14,000 square feet building was underway. The prefab building brought in from China would have two storeys, with the ground floor being a walkway for passengers, he added.
“If all goes according to plan, we will be able to complete the project and open the complex in October,” Adil said.
Workers assemble the steel structure of the new waterfront F&B complex at the main Velana International Airport. PHOTO/ MACL
MACL has earlier announced that it was in talks with regional licensees of top fast food franchises to set up their outlets at the new waterfront F&B complex, which is to be built at the waterfront of the airport. Some of the franchise brands in the January announcement include McDonald’s, KFC, Starbucks, Pizza Hut, Domino’s, Krispy Kreme, Dunkin’ Donuts and Hard Rock Café.
MACL will also allow franchise operators to open outlets in the new terminal of the airport being developed.
Velana International Airport already features a number of international fast food franchises, including Burger King, The Coffee Club, Thai Express, The Pizza Company and Dairy Queen. The franchises are managed by Thailand-based Minor International, which also operates four resorts in the Maldives.
A separate USD 800 million mega project has been launched by the government to expand and upgrade the Maldives’ main gateway. The project includes construction of a new runway and terminal, and establishment of support infrastructure and services in order to allow the airport to cater to at least seven million passengers per annum.
Ali Naafiz
