Emirates opens airport lounges to economy class passengers

Emirates has taken the significant step of opening its airport lounges at Dubai International Airport to all passengers, regardless of travel class.

Under the new system, economy class passengers will be able to pay to enter the airline’s First and Business Class lounges in Dubai, as long as they are a member of the Emirates Skywards frequent flyer programme.

Business class passenegrs will be offered the chance to pay for an upgrade to the First Class lounges.
Dubai International Airport is home to seven Emirates lounges spread over three concourses.

“We made the decision to expand access to our lounges in Dubai based on our customer feedback, and after a careful review to ensure that the same quality experience can be maintained,” explained Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ executive vice president & chief operations officer.

“We are pleased to see many of our customers appreciate the opportunity to be able to pay for their additional guests and access the lounge which enables them to enjoy a relaxing space and indulge in delicious meals before their flight.”

Emirates’ economy class passengers will be charged US$100 for four hours’ access to the Business Class lounges or US$200 for the First Class lounges. Business class can upgrade to First Class lounges for US$100. Silver, Gold and Platinum members of the Skywards programme will continue to receive complimentary lounge access.

Facilities at the Business Class lounges include F&B services, showers, a spa, children’s play area and free Wi-Fi.

Emirates has a global network of more than 30 airport lounges, and it plans to extend its paid access system to other international lounges in future.