Emirates redesigns its global lounges at $13.7mn per site

Munich and Frankfurt are already open under the new concept, with Manchester, Mauritius and Istanbul to follow before year-end.

Staff Writer
Emirates redesigns its global lounges at AED 50m per site
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Emirates is spending more than AED 50 million per location to redesign its global lounges, starting with Munich and Frankfurt. Manchester, Mauritius and Istanbul are set to open under the new concept before the end of the year.

Key points

  • Emirates investing over AED 50 million per new lounge globally
  • Munich and Frankfurt open; Manchester, Mauritius, Istanbul to follow
  • New design features live cooking, quiet zones, and prayer rooms

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Emirates has launched a new lounge design concept it plans to roll out across its global network, with each refurbished location carrying an investment of more than AED 50 million.

The first two sites under the format, in Munich and Frankfurt, are already open. Manchester is scheduled to open in July, Mauritius in August, and Istanbul in October.

“Our investment in our next-generation signature lounge concept reflects Emirates’ continued commitment to delivering a seamless, premium experience at every stage of the journey. These new lounges have been designed to combine refreshed luxurious interiors with the elevated hospitality and innovation that Emirates is known for – a space for our customers to relax, enjoy, dine and prepare for their travel in comfort. As we expand this concept and theme across our global network, it will set a new benchmark and standard for airport lounges and further strengthen our premium proposition,” Adel Al Redha, Deputy President and Chief Operations Officer at Emirates said in a statement.

The aesthetic draws on the interiors of Emirates’ latest cabin product: herringbone floors, marble and gold accents, discreetly integrated lighting, and the backlit Ghaf Tree motif, a reference to the UAE’s national tree. The airline says the design incorporates more than 50 individual enhancements compared to its previous lounge standard.

Functionally, the spaces are divided into distinct zones. Work areas feature Italian eco-leather seating, wireless charging, and universal power at every seat, alongside a communal space intended to serve as both a social hub and a working environment. A dedicated artefact wall is intended to reflect local artists and Emirati culture. Rolex clocks displaying global time zones feature throughout.

Dining has been rebuilt around live cooking. A bread oven produces handcrafted pizzas, flatbreads and manakeesh, described by the airline as inspired by Dubai.

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A “Made In” section spotlights local cuisine at each location, and buffet selections are refreshed continuously. A barista bar runs alongside a mixologist offering locally inspired cocktails, mocktails and speciality coffees.

On the wellness side, shower suites have been upgraded with spa-style finishes and VOYA amenities. A Quiet Zone provides plush seating, soft lighting, blankets, eye masks and earplugs for passengers on layovers. Dedicated prayer rooms for men and women include ablution facilities and integrated Qibla direction.

Access remains complimentary for First and Business Class passengers and Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members, including those travelling in Premium Economy or Economy. Paid access is also available.

Emirates currently operates 42 dedicated lounges worldwide, eight of them at Dubai International Airport‘s Terminal 3.