Enjoy extraordinary journeys with us
When you fly from The Maldives to Sulaymaniyah with Qatar Airways, every detail is carefully designed to make your journey exceptional from the moment you board. Experience renowned hospitality as our attentive cabin crew welcomes you, ensuring you are well cared for throughout your flight. Step into a modern aircraft interior, where spacious seating and elegant design create a relaxing atmosphere. Settle in and explore Oryx One, our award-winning in-flight entertainment system, offering thousands of movies, TV shows and games. Whether you prefer a light snack or full-course meal, enjoy a menu of gourmet cuisine, freshly prepared and inspired by global flavours. With plush pillows, soft blankets and luxury amenity kits, you can rest in unmatched comfort and arrive feeling refreshed.
Your journey begins at Velana International Airport (MLE), the gateway to the Maldives and a remarkably beautiful departure point surrounded by brilliant blue water. Enjoy a comfortable travel experience at this easy-to-navigate international hub.
Getting to the airport involves travelling on water since it's located on its own island, without land connections to Malé city. Speedboats are the most common mode of transport, alongside local water taxis known as dhonis, which bring you directly to the terminal. You can also take a transfer by seaplane.
Once inside the terminal, you'll find several facilities to explore before your flight. You can relax in the lounge area or browse retail outlets for any last-minute purchases. Shop local goods, luxury accessories, perfume and jewellery. Stay connected using the complimentary internet kiosks situated in the duty-free area, near gates 1, 2 and 3. You can easily find the prayer room inside the terminal, or access one of the two mosques just five minutes’ walk from the airport.
Discover Sulaymaniyah, often called Slemani, the cultural capital of Iraq. This dynamic city, framed by the beautiful Zagros Mountains, is celebrated for its literary legacy, which has produced renowned Kurdish poets.
The region’s stunning natural scenery is perfect for outdoor activities, such as hiking in the nearby Azmar and Goizha mountains. You can immerse yourself in local culture by exploring the historic Old Town. Wander through the large, bustling open bazaars where you can taste delicious regional food specialties and shop for traditional crafts.
To learn about the region's past, visit the Sulaymaniyah Museum, which houses a significant collection of Mesopotamian and ancient Persian artifacts. End your trip by admiring the scenic landscape around the largest lake in the region, Lake Dukan.
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Feeling inspired? Explore beyond Maldives
Feeling inspired? Explore beyond Sulaymaniyah