Emirates unveils its biggest lounge upgrade programme with over Dh50m investment per location
New spaces blend technology, comfort and locally inspired hospitality
DUBAI – Emirates has unveiled its next-generation signature lounge concept, marking the airline’s biggest lounge upgrade programme to date as it continues to enhance its premium travel experience worldwide.
The new design has been introduced at the Emirates Lounges in Munich, Germany and Frankfurt, Germany, with further rollouts planned in Manchester, Mauritius and Istanbul over the coming months. Designed as a blueprint for Emirates lounges across its international network, the refreshed concept combines luxury hospitality, modern design, technology and locally inspired experiences for travellers.
The airline will invest more than Dh50 million into each next-generation lounge, highlighting its focus on creating premium airport facilities across key destinations. Following the launches in Munich and Frankfurt, the Emirates Lounge in Manchester, United Kingdom is scheduled to open in July, followed by Mauritius in August and Istanbul, Turkey in October.
Redesigned spaces
The redesigned lounges take inspiration from Emirates’ latest aircraft cabin interiors, bringing the airline’s signature style from the skies to the ground. Customers will find contemporary architecture, refined furniture, integrated technology, locally influenced dining concepts and wellness-focused spaces designed around different stages of the journey.
The new lounge concept introduces more than 50 design enhancements, creating dedicated areas for relaxation, productivity, dining and social interaction. The interiors feature Emirates’ distinctive aesthetic with discreet lighting, herringbone flooring, marble and gold accents, alongside the signature backlit Emirates Ghaf Tree motif, reflecting the UAE’s national tree and cultural identity.
The spaces have been designed to support travellers who want to work, unwind, connect with others or enjoy a quiet moment before their flight. Italian eco-leather seating, wireless charging facilities and universal power access at every seat are included to improve convenience for customers staying connected while travelling.
Dedicated work areas and communal spaces provide flexibility for both business and leisure travellers. A specially designed artefact wall celebrates local artists and Emirati culture, while Emirates’ signature Rolex clocks display global time zones throughout the lounges.
Dining experience
Dining areas have been redesigned around a more interactive culinary experience, featuring live cooking stations and refreshed food concepts. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of international dishes, regional specialities and a dedicated “Made In” area showcasing local flavours from each destination.
Live cooking stations will serve freshly prepared à la minute dishes, while hot and cold buffet options will be replenished throughout the day and night. A dedicated bread oven adds to the experience with freshly prepared pizzas, flatbreads and manakeesh inspired by Dubai’s culinary scene.
The beverage offering continues to feature Emirates’ selection of wines, beers, champagne and spirits. The updated lounge concept also introduces a dedicated barista bar, where customers can enjoy speciality coffees, artisan teas and locally inspired cocktails and mocktails prepared by an expert mixologist.
Relaxation and wellness
Emirates has incorporated wellness-focused features throughout the new lounges, creating quieter environments for customers seeking rest during their journey. The lounges feature the airline’s signature scent of bergamot, citrus, jasmine and soft wood, complemented by local plants and fresh floral arrangements.
Upgraded shower suites include spa-inspired finishes and sustainable VOYA amenities, allowing passengers to refresh before their flights. Dedicated male and female prayer rooms have also been integrated into the design, featuring ablution facilities and Qibla direction to provide a comfortable and private space for prayer.
For customers travelling on longer journeys or during layovers, the Quiet Zone offers a peaceful setting with plush seating, soft lighting and sleep amenities including blankets, eye masks and earplugs. Additional facilities include private meeting areas and breastfeeding spaces to support a wider range of passenger needs.
All Emirates Lounges operate as silent environments, maintaining a calm atmosphere for travellers throughout their stay.
Global lounge network
Emirates currently operates a network of 42 dedicated airport lounges, including eight at Dubai International Airport, Dubai, UAE and 34 across international destinations. The lounges are located in major cities including Auckland, Bangkok, Beijing, Birmingham, Brisbane, Cairo, Colombo, Delhi, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Glasgow, Hamburg, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Johannesburg, Kuala Lumpur, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Manchester, Melbourne, Milan, Munich, New York, Paris, Perth, Rome, San Francisco, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Vienna and Zurich.
At Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3, Emirates operates eight lounges, including three dedicated to First Class customers and five for Business Class travellers.
Access to Emirates Lounges is complimentary for First Class and Business Class passengers, as well as Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members, including those travelling in Premium Economy and Economy Class. Paid access is also available for eligible travellers seeking a premium airport experience.