Smart Gate Service Launched at Velana International Airport

February 29, 2024

The Maldives Customs Service in collaboration with Maldives Airports Company Limited has introduced a smart gate service at Velana International Airport.

The service was inaugurated by Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, CEO and Managing Director of MACL.

This new system replaces the conventional method of using red stickers on luggage that needs extra scrutiny during customs checks. Instead, it used "radio frequency identification" (RFID) tags to identify such luggage through a smart gate. Any attempt to remove luggage without proper customs clearance activates the smart gate, improving security and efficiency during the customs clearance procedure. Under the new system, owners of luggage fitted with tags for additional search will be required to proceed to the red channel for customs clearance of the tagged items.

Inaugurating the service, Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, CEO and Managing Director of MACL, stated that the smart gate implemented today will enhance the service quality and overall airport experience for passengers and expedite the clearance process especially for passengers required to clear through the green channel, ensuring smooth completion without delays.

We are continuously working closely with stakeholders and enforcement agencies to improve our services. This service will also aid in combating terrorism, money laundering, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and smuggling, thereby safeguarding the entry and exit points of the Maldives " he said.