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Best lounge in Dubai airport in 2024: Features, access options, and more

Flying through Dubai International Airport (DXB)? Here’s your guide to the best lounges in Dubai Airport in 2024 — what’s great, what’s not, and how to get in.

Updated: December 9, 2024

If you’re passing through Dubai Airport, finding the right lounge can transform your travel experience. Whether you need to catch up on work, enjoy a quick meal, or simply relax, lounges offer a peaceful escape from the bustling terminals.

Generally, you can access lounges in five  ways:

  • Buy a single-use access pass through platforms like LoungePair, LoungePass, or LoungeBuddy. 
  • Use memberships like Priority Pass, DragonPass, or LoungeKey.
  • Take advantage of complimentary access through some premium credit cards (e.g., American Express Platinum). Check with your card issuer for details.
  • All lounges accept walk-ins, but availability depends on capacity. We recommend pre-booking for guaranteed entry.
  • Some plane tickets, loyalty programs, and frequent flyer statuses include lounge access, particularly for business or first-class fares and elite-tier members. 

In this guide, we walk you through the best lounges in Dubai Airport in 2024, covering what each lounge offers and any potential downsides to consider.

Best lounges in Dubai Airport Terminal 1

Terminal 1 serves most non-Emirates airlines, like British Airways, Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, and Lufthansa.

Many of these airlines offer their own lounges, giving you plenty of options to experience the best lounge in Dubai Airport Terminal 1, where you can relax or refresh before your flight.

Marhaba Lounge

Located near the food court on Level 1, the Marhaba Lounge offers tickets for 2, 4, 6 or 8 hours of stay, with free admission for children under two.

Pre-booking is available, with prices varying by stay duration and promotions. All passengers are welcome, no matter the airline they use or ticket class.

The official website lists four prices: 

  • $52.87 USD for 2 hours 
  • $105.75 for 4 hours
  • $158.62 for 6 hours
  • $108.61 for 8 hours

Walk-ins typically pay around AED 194 (approximately $53) for 2 hours, with longer stays available at higher rates.

Marhaba customer support confirmed that the minimum stay in their lounges in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 is 4 hours, while you can book 2 hours in Terminal 2 lounge. You can extend your stay at the same hourly rates.

Marhaba Lounge customer service chat.
Marhaba Lounge customer service chat.

Amenities: 

  • Magazines
  • Prayer room
  • Comfortable seating areas
  • Complimentary high-speed WiFi
  • TV screens with flight information
  • Sleeping room (at an additional charge)
  • A separate kids’ room with a PlayStation
  • A beverage bar offering soft drinks, juices, wines, and spirits
  • Shower facilities (at an additional charge — available in Terminal 1 & Terminal 3 only)
ProsCons
✅Accessible to all travelers, regardless of airline or class❌Often overcrowded, with long wait times 
✅ Capacity for 300 guests❌Additional charges for showers and sleeping pods
✅ Communal tables seating 4-12 people
✅ Open 24 hours 

The entrance to Marhaba Lounge in Terminal 1 at DXB.
The entrance to Marhaba Lounge in Terminal 1 at DXB. Source: Google Images

British Airways Lounge

The British Airways Galleries Lounge is located at the top of an escalator, just after duty-free in Concourse D.

However, the new British Airways Dubai lounge is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2025.

Access is limited to:

  • First Class and Business Class passengers flying with British Airways or oneworld airlines.
  • Gold members of the British Airways Executive Club and oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members.
  • Sapphire or Emerald members are welcome to invite one guest to enjoy the lounge with them.

Amenities: 

  • TV
  • Buffet
  • Air conditioning
  • Business center
  • Wheelchair access
  • Reading materials
  • Flight information screens
  • Charging points throughout
  • Buffet and a la Carte options available
  • Table service food ordering via QR code
  • Self-serve bar with wines, liquors, and soft drinks
ProsCons
✅”Dubai Bar” offers a more secluded space❌Can get very crowded, especially before A380 departures
✅QR code-based food ordering with table service❌Limited premium drinks, with only Mumm champagne in First Class
✅Good WiFi speed (↓ 21 Mbps ↑ 26 Mbps)❌Main lounge area has a standard buffet setup
❌ Daily from 6:00 – 12:00 and 22:00 – 01:00
British Airways Lounge in Terminal 1 at DXB.
British Airways Lounge in Terminal 1 at DXB. Source: LoungeBuddy

Lufthansa Lounge

The Lufthansa Senator and Business Lounges are located one next to another in Terminal 1, Concourse D, on the mezzanine level above the duty-free area. They’re open from 05:30 – 09:30 and 21:30 – 02:30 on most days and from 21:30 – 02.30 on Tuesdays and Fridays.

As a Lufthansa Senator Lounge, it doesn’t sell individual entry passes. Access is limited to:

  • First Class passengers on Lufthansa or SWISS flights
  • Star Alliance Gold members traveling on a Star Alliance flight
  • HON Circle members and Senators (with over 100,000 status miles)
  • Business Class and Frequent travelers can access Business Lounge only.

Amenities:

  • Shower
  • Pet-friendly
  • USB charging ports
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • UK standard sockets
  • Entertainment options
  • Locker facilities for secure luggage storage
ProsCons
✅Quiet and intimate atmosphere with seating for 68 travelers❌Can get overcrowded during peak hours
✅Good food selection, including hot breakfast, sandwiches, and fresh fruit❌No multi-standard power outlets (adapters may be needed)
✅ Airside location❌Limited privacy due to open layout
 Lufthansa Lounge in Terminal 1 at DXB.
 Lufthansa Lounge in Terminal 1 at DXB. Source: Lufthansa

SkyTeam Lounge

The SkyTeam Lounge is located in Terminal 1, Concourse D, near the food court, and is open 24/7.

Access is limited to:

  • SkyTeam Elite Plus members and First/Business Class passengers on SkyTeam airlines. You can bring one guest traveling on a SkyTeam flight, but there’s a four-hour time limit for guests. 
  • Priority Pass members or LoungeKey
  • Diners Club International and Mastercard Airport Experiences cardholders 

Walk-in access without a membership or premium flight ticket isn’t guaranteed, and individual passes aren’t sold directly

Important: Starting in 2024, if you’re a Delta SkyMiles Elite Plus member, you won’t be able to access Delta Sky Clubs when flying in Basic Economy or Comfort+.

However, you can still access SkyTeam lounges operated by other airlines, if your flight qualifies​.

Amenities: 

  • Children’s play area
  • Flight information screens
  • Showers (extra fee)
  • Magazines and newspapers
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Buffet dining with hot and cold options
  • Free WiFi and computers with internet access
ProsCons
✅Spacious, with seating for over300 people❌Small shower rooms without toilets
✅Convenient location in Concourse D❌Dining tables are small, especially for two people
✅Comfortable seating options for different group sizes
SkyTeam Lounge in Terminal 1 at DXB.
SkyTeam Lounge in Terminal 1 at DXB. Source: SkyTeam Lounge

Gulf Air Lounge

The Gulf Air Lounge, also known as the Falcon Gold Lounge, is on the upper level of the duty-free area. It’s open daily from 05:00 AM to midnight.

Access is available to: 

  • Falcon Gold (Business Class) passengers
  • Falconflyer Gold tier members (with 1 guest)
  • Falconflyer Black tier members (with 2 guests)
  • Falconflyer Silver tier members (member-only access)

You can use the lounge 3 to 4 hours before your flight departure. If you don’t qualify for complimentary access, you can purchase entry for around $102 or redeem it with 5,000 Falconflyer miles.

Amenities: 

  • Prayer room
  • Baggage storage
  • Plush armchairs
  • A selection of drinks and food
  • Magazines, newspapers, and TV entertainment
ProsCons
✅Self-service hot buffet and cold snack bar❌Below average and limited shower facilities
✅Quiet workstation area❌Limited buffet options
✅Storage room
✅Smoking area
Gulf Air Lounge in Terminal 1 at DXB.
Gulf Air Lounge in Terminal 1 at DXB. Source: Gulf Air Lounge

Best lounges in Dubai Airport Terminal 2

Terminal 2 at Dubai International Airport (DXB) is smaller and less glamorous than Terminals 1 and 3, primarily serving regional and budget airlines.

It handles flights from low-cost carriers like Flydubai and regional destinations in the Middle East, South Asia, and North Africa

Marhaba Lounge

The Marhaba Lounge is in the Departure Area, opposite Gates F3 and F4, accessible after security. 

Operating 24/7, this lounge is open to passengers of all classes, including Economy. You can pre-book online, pay upon arrival, or access it through memberships like Priority Pass or Diners Club International

Children under two enter for free, and guests can stay for up to six hours.

The official website lists the following prices: 

  • $52.87 for 2 hours for an adult and ~$28.59 for a child 
  • $105.75 for 4 hours
  • $158.62 for 6 hours

Amenities:

  • Restrooms
  • Magazines
  • Comfortable seating
  • TV/Flight info screens
  • Designated smoking area
  • Complimentary high-speed WiFi
  • International cuisine including hot and cold beverages
  • Separate beverage bar with a selection of soft drinks, juices, wines and spirits
ProsCons
✅Comfortable space for long layovers❌No sleep rooms or showers
✅Easy access to departure gates❌Layout features many communal tables, which doesn’t offer much privacy
✅Various entry methods (pay-per-use, membership access)
Marhaba Lounge in Terminal 2 at DXB.
Marhaba Lounge in Terminal 2 at DXB. Source: Marhaba Lounge

Flydubai Business Class Lounge

The Flydubai Business Class Lounge is located airside in Terminal 2, after security. It operates 24/7 and is exclusively available to Flydubai Business Class passengers with same-day departures from Terminal 2.

Access is limited to:

  • Business Class passengers flying with flydubai
  • Passengers with paid access options or specific partner programs
  • Eligible Emirates Skywards members, depending on tier status (e.g., Gold, Platinum)

Business Class flyers also benefit from priority boarding, with direct transport to the aircraft via dedicated shuttles, avoiding the standard buses.

Amenities:

  • LCD TVs
  • Free WiFi
  • Bar (upper level)
  • Snacks at the bar
  • 24-hour cold menu
  • Two levels of seating areas
  • Flight information monitors
  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
  • Hot food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Tea, coffee, fresh fruit, cheese, and desserts
  • Reception assistance from the Business Team
  • Bistro-style tables and seating (lower level)
ProsCons
✅Two-level layout❌No showers and spa services
✅Quiet atmosphere with minimal announcements❌Seating arrangements may lack privacy
✅24-hour operation
Flydubai Business Class Lounge in Terminal 2 at DXB.
Flydubai Business Class Lounge in Terminal 2 at DXB. Source: Flydubai Business Class Lounge

💡Tip: Now that you’re relaxing in Dubai’s best lounges, it’s time to plan your itinerary. Check out the best things to do in Dubai while you’re there.

Best lounge Dubai Terminal 3

Terminal 3 is the largest in the world by floor area, mainly serving Emirates flights and a few codeshare partners like Qantas.

It’s divided into three concourses A, B, and C — each offering extensive amenities, from luxury shopping to fine dining and relaxation areas.

Plaza Premium Lounge 

The Plaza Premium Lounge is on Level 4, Concourse AWest Wing between Gates A2 and A3, accessible via a lift from the Duty Free area.

Children under two enter for free, while those 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Access options:

  • Purchase a single-use pass directly at the lounge.
  • Book access through platforms like LoungePair, LoungeBuddy, or Plaza Premium’s website, with prices starting at ~ $55 to $71 (AED 261).
  • Members of programs like Priority Pass, DragonPass, and LoungeKey can access the lounge, but guest privileges vary by membership.

Amenities: 

  • Bar
  • WiFi
  • Playroom
  • TV channels 
  • Family suite
  • Dry cleaners
  • Smoking area
  • Charging station
  • Flight information
  • Food & beverages 
  • Lounge chairs/bay
  • Vegetarian options
  • Shower Facilities (Charges may apply / Subject to availability)
ProsCons
✅Open 24/7❌Premium alcoholic drinks and shower facilities have an extra charge
✅Spacious (1,260 square meters)❌Can get crowded during peak travel times
✅Diverse food options
✅Family-friendly with private suites and play area
✅Convenient location for international departures
Plaza Premium Lounge in DXB.
Plaza Premium Lounge in DXB. Source: Plaza Premium Lounge

Game Space Gaming Lounge

The Game Space Gaming Lounge is where you can level up your layover. It is located near the Family Zone at B Gates in Terminal 3, near gate B27.

Whether you’re a solo gamer or love multiplayer battles, you’ll find everything you need to relax, unwind, and have fun.

Access is open to anyone traveling through Terminal 3, and you can walk in to experience the latest in PlayStation and PC gaming.

Amenities

  • WiFi
  • VR experiences
  • Comfortable gaming chairs
  • PlayStation and PC game titles (including NBA, Fortnite, Call of Duty, and DOTA 2)
  • 40 gaming stations with 50-inch screens
  • Side-by-side seating for multiplayer gaming
ProsCons
✅Open 24/7❌ ~$ 22 (AED 80) for a 60-minute pass
✅ Offers access to internet browsing or streaming services like Netflix and Prime Video
✅ Equipped with the latest PlayStation 5 consoles, state-of-the-art ASUS gaming PCs, Elgato streaming tools, and high-resolution extra-wide screens
Game Space Gaming Lounge in DXB.
Game Space Gaming Lounge in DXB. Source: Game Space Gaming LoungeAhlan Lounge

Ahlan Lounge at Dubai International Airport are available in three concourses of Terminal 3:

  • Concourse A: Gate A1, Level 6 (same level as Dubai International Hotel), above the Emirates Business Class Lounge
  • Concourse B: Gate B22, Level 6 (same level as Dubai International Hotel)
  • Concourse C: Gate C13 (same level as Dubai International Hotel)

The official website lists the following prices:

  • $66.33 for 4 hours 
  • $91.85 for 6 hours

Guests can stay for a maximum of 3 hours. Access to Ahlan Lounges is available to all passengers for a fee (you can book time slots online through the official Dubai International Airport website), regardless of airline or class of travel. 

Additionally, members of lounge access programs such as Priority Pass and LoungeKey can enjoy complimentary entry, depending on their membership terms

Amenities: 

  • Massage chairs
  • High-speed Wi-Fi
  • Assistance with flight information
  • Offsite shower facilities available upon request
  • Selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Access to international newspapers and magazines
  • Digital copies of international newspapers and magazines
ProsCons
✅ Free-to-use massage chairs❌ The lounge in Concourse A, can be quite a walk from the gates
✅Alcoholic drinks are complimentary❌ Due to the open layout, you might hear boarding announcements from nearby gates
✅During Ramadan, alcoholic drinks are only available between 20:00 – 03:00 (subject to request).
Ahlan Lounge in DXB terminal 3.
Ahlan Lounge in DXB terminal 3. Source: Ahlan Lounge

Al Majlis Lounge

The Al Majlis Lounge is located near Exit 4 and is open 24/7. It’s available to all passengers, regardless of class or airline.

The price for adults is ~$408 (1,500 AED) per person. Special family discounts apply to children, and infants under three enter for free.

Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. For urgent requests (less than 48 hours before service), there’s an additional $100 charge per passenger

Amenities: 

  • Exclusive smoking room
  • Personalized duty-free shopping assistance
  • Dedicated immigration and security clearance
  • WiFi, entertainment, private meeting rooms, and prayer areas
  • BMW 7-Series limousine transfers between the lounge and the aircraft
  • Private VIP lounges with seating and complimentary refreshments
ProsCons
✅Priority check-in, immigration, and baggage clearance❌Expensive, not suitable for budget-conscious travelers
✅Assistance with travel documentation and luggage handling❌No sleeping areas or private rooms
Al Majlis Lounge in Terminal 3 at DXB.
Al Majlis Lounge in Terminal 3 at DXB. Source: Al Majlis Lounge

Marhaba Lounge

The Marhaba Lounge is in Concourse A, between Gates A2 and A3, and in Concourse B, near Gates B21 and B23. It’s open 24/7.

The official website lists the following: 

  • $69.17 for 4 hours for adults and ~$31.45 (AED 115.50) for children
  • $138.33 for 8 hours 

Access is available to: 

  • Priority Pass, LoungeKey, and Diners Club members based on membership benefits.
  • Walk-ins, with prices starting ~$53 (AED 194) for a 2-hour stay, with extended time at higher rates.

Amenities:

  • TV and newspapers
  • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Buffet dining with hot and cold options
  • Complimentary WiFi and flight information screens
  • Prayer room, smoking area, and quiet relaxation spaces
  • Shower facilities (at an additional charge, subject to availability)
  • Recliners (available in Terminal 3 concourse A and B only, subject to availability)
ProsCons
✅Open 24/7❌Maximum stay limit 4 hours
✅Accessible to all passengers, regardless of airline or class❌Shower facilities require an extra fee 
❌Can get crowded during peak times
❌Sleeping pods only available in Terminal 1 
Marhaba Lounge in Terminal 3 DXB.
Marhaba Lounge in Terminal 3 DXB. Source: Marhaba

Emirates Business Class Lounge

The Emirates Business Class Lounge is located in Concourse B on the second floor, accessible by escalator or elevator. Access is limited to Emirates and Qantas flights, and you must present a valid boarding pass at reception to enter.

Access options:

  • Emirates Business Class passengers receive complimentary access.
  • Skywards Gold and Platinum members can access the lounge, with Platinum members allowed one guest.
  • Skywards Blue members can buy a 4-hour pass for $100, but guest access isn’t included.

Amenities: 

  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Quiet relaxation areas
  • Costa Coffee in the lounge
  • Moët & Chandon Champagne bar
  • Private shower spas with Voya toiletries
  • Gourmet dining options and exclusive beverages
  • Direct boarding to flights from Concourse A lounges
  • Timeless Spa offering massages and treatments (for a fee)
ProsCons
✅Seating capacity of 1,300 passengers❌No boarding calls, so you’ll need to stay vigilant to avoid missing your flight
✅Multiple amenities catering to relaxation, work, and refreshment needs❌12-minute walk from one end to the other, which may be inconvenient for some travelers
✅Direct boarding option
Emirates Business Class Lounge in Terminal 3 DXB.
Emirates Business Class Lounge in Terminal 3 DXB. Source: Emirates lounges via Google Images

Protect your data and stay connected securely

Now that we’ve explored Dubai’s best airport lounges, you’ve seen that complimentary airport WiFi is often part of the experience. However, public WiFi comes with a few risks. 

If you’re checking bank accounts, making payments, or handling sensitive business tasks, an open network can leave you exposed to security vulnerabilities.

Plus, speeds can slow down during peak hours, making it difficult to stream videos or attend virtual meetings.

Stay connected on your trip to Dubai with Holafly

For a more secure, high-speed alternative, Holafly eSIM with unlimited data is a great choice.

Holafly is a travel eSIM provider offering unlimited data plans in over 200 destinations, including Dubai. It’s a great alternative to traditional SIM cards, designed to keep you connected without worrying about roaming charges or physical SIM swaps.

However, not all phones support eSIMs, so it’s essential to check compatibility. Most newer smartphones like iPhones XR and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and up, and Google Pixel 3 models support eSIMs​.

With Holafly, you can buy an eSIM for Dubai through the Holafly app (available for Android and iOS) or website. You’ll receive a QR code via email or through the app. Simply scan it with your phone’s camera to install the eSIM. You can do this before your trip and activate it once you arrive in Dubai.

Holafly’s plans are data-only, meaning you’ll use apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime for calls and messaging — ideal for work, maps, or streaming videos during your stay in Dubai.

Easy steps to install and activate Holafly eSIM
Easy steps to install and activate Holafly eSIM

Takeaways on the best lounges in Dubai Airport 

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has lounges in Terminals 1, 2, and 3 to suit every traveler. You’ll find options like the luxurious Emirates Business Class Lounge, the family-friendly Ahlan Lounge, and the versatile Marhaba Lounge. Unique spaces like Game Space DXB cater to gamers. 

Each lounge offers amenities such as premium dining, quiet work areas, shower facilities, and comfortable seating. Whether you’re flying economy or business, there’s a lounge to match your needs.

While airport lounges offer complimentary WiFi, public networks may not be secure enough for banking, business work, or handling personal data.

That’s why Holafly eSIM is a smart alternative. With 24/7 customer support and unlimited data plans covering 200+ destinations, Holafly offers both individual destination plans and regional plans for areas like Europe or Asia — keeping you connected securely during your travels.

Based in Mumbai, Sharan Kaur Phillora has 6+ years of experience in the B2B writing industry. She has written for brands like Pocket52, Nexweave, Maze, NaNLABS, and Userpilot. When she's not working, Sharan can be found immersed in murder mystery novels or exploring Mumbai's streets on her bicycle in search of the perfect slice of pizza.

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