Flying out of Malé, we used the Leeli Lounge Maldives, the main contract lounge for international departures at Velana International Airport. We were flying back to the UK in British Airways’ 777. For an airport of this size, the lounge was impressively large and airy, catering to the steady stream of premium passengers heading home after island stays. It wasn’t about luxury or fine dining, but it offered plenty of space, decent food, and superb Wi-Fi, which, after a week of patchy island internet, felt like the biggest upgrade of all.
In this review:
- Opening Hours
- Locating the lounge and reception
- Comfort
- Food & drink
- Toilets & showers
- Wi-Fi, charging & productivity
- Extras
- BG1 Verdict
Opening Hours
The Leeli Lounge Maldives operated throughout the main wave of international departures from Velana International Airport. With most long-haul flights departing late morning through evening, the lounge kept hours to match, giving premium passengers a comfortable place to wait.
Locating the lounge & reception
The Leeli Lounge Maldives was located in the International Departure Terminal at Malé’s Velana International Airport, on the first floor near the duty-free area. Entry was straightforward once through security, with clear signage and no queues at the reception desk. Access was included for business-class passengers on most international airlines, though day passes were available for those in economy who wanted the space. For passengers wanting to pay their way in, entry cost about USD 40 for three hours. But with no alcohol and only decent (rather than outstanding) food options, it’s worth considering whether it represents good value for money.
Comfort
The Leeli Lounge Maldives turned out to be far larger than expected for a small airport. It was bright, expansive, and designed to handle the steady stream of premium passengers that pass through Malé. Seating was plentiful, with armchairs, sofas, and tables spread across different zones. The far end by the windows was lighter and quieter, offering a better atmosphere than the busier central sections. Two separate areas served coffee, which helped reduce queues. Piano music piped softly through the speakers added a touch of calm, though the lounge was lively and, at times, noisy. Families with children gave it the feel of a crèche, and some travellers seemed to dominate the buffet!
Food & Drink
Breakfast at the Leeli Lounge Maldives was simple but sufficient. There was a choice of hot and cold dishes, fruit, pastries, and a small buffet that did the job without trying to impress. Tea, coffee, juices, and soft drinks were available, but alcohol was not served. It won’t rival premium airline-branded lounges for fine dining or champagne, but as a functional spot to eat and recharge before a flight, it delivered.
Toilets and showers
The Leeli Lounge Maldives had two sets of toilets, each with plenty of cubicles. They were clean and available throughout our stay. There were no showers on offer, but for the short waits most passengers have here, it wasn’t a major drawback.
WiFi, power & productivity
One of the highlights of the Leeli Lounge Maldives was the internet speed. After a week on resort islands with patchy connections, being able to download films and shows at lightning pace felt like a real luxury. Almost every seat had access to a mains socket along with two USB-A ports, making it easy to charge phones and laptops while waiting.
(↓ 68.4 Mbps ↑ 12.6 Mbps)
Extras
Beyond its sheer size, the Leeli Lounge Maldives didn’t offer many frills. Still, the combination of bright spaces, soft piano music, and ample charging options set it apart from many small-airport lounges.
BG1 verdict
The Leeli Lounge Maldives was bigger, brighter, and more functional than we imagined, and a fitting start or end to a Maldivian trip. Don’t expect premium airline-style dining or alcohol, but do expect comfortable seating, decent food, and some of the fastest Wi-Fi you’ll find in the islands.
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