What to expect in an airport lounge
What’s included in an airport lounge? What to expect when you book
Deciding whether to book an airport lounge can be tricky if you don’t know what to expect and what’s included.
You need to know what you’re getting for the price you pay, from facilities to food and drink.
This guide covers everything you can expect at an airport lounge, and what benefits you’ll enjoy by getting access to one ahead of your flight.
Locations
Airport lounges are usually located after security checkpoints, close to departure gates – though some can also be accessed prior to passing through security.
It’s essential to make sure the lounge you book is compatible with your departing flight. To help with this, marhaba website uses built-in data validation that only displays lounges available at the terminal your flight departs from.
There are marhaba Lounges at many airports around the world, and in some cases several lounges at the same airport - giving you plenty of flexibility for different flights, terminals or travel plans. For example, you’ll find marhaba Lounges at Dubai International Airport (across all terminals), Geneva Airport in Switzerland, Sharjah International Airport in the UAE and Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Facilities
If you travel frequently, it may be worth considering an independent lounge membership programme. For an annual fee, these programmes give you access to airport lounges worldwide, including those at Dubai Airport.
Many offer different tiers with extra perks such as guest passes and discounts on additional facilities within the lounges. You can expect to pay roughly USD 300 for up to 10 lounge visits per year, while more frequent use and extra perks could see that fee rise to around USD 450.
Seating
Airport lounges typically have more premium seating options than airport facilities, with dedicated areas for unwinding, working and dining.
In marhaba Lounges, comfort is our top priority with plush seating thoughtfully arranged to help you unwind from the moment you arrive. Sink into spacious armchairs, stretch out in cosy recliners or settle at stylish free-standing chairs and tables ideal for catching up on work, eating or enjoying a quiet moment. Every corner is designed to feel like a calm, premium retreat before your journey begins.
Unlike the main airport, you’ll be sure to find comfortable seats for you and your family, friends or colleagues – making your wait for your flight a breeze.
Work areas
There are dedicated work areas in many airport lounges, featuring ample space for solo or group work, as well as plugs for your laptop and other devices.
Some marhaba Lounges have private workspaces* that allow you to work away from the main lounge – but even those without these spaces are suitable for working thanks to their peaceful atmosphere, spacious seating and high-speed WiFi.
You should check the details of your specific lounge to find out what working areas are available.
*Except Terminal 2 at DXB
Showers
Showers are a common feature of airport lounges, allowing you to freshen up before your flight.
You can usually expect amenities such as towels, hair dryers and basic toiletries.*
While some lounges may include shower facilities as standard, additional fees often apply – particularly if the showers are located outside the lounge.*
When you book a marhaba lounge, you’ll be able to see whether the lounge offers shower facilities and if there’s a small additional fee to use them, so you know exactly what to expect before you arrive.
**Additional fees may apply
Restrooms
Airport lounges will almost certainly have exclusive restrooms, separate from those used by others in the airport.
They’re often more premium than the facilities you’ll find elsewhere, making your pre-flight experience even more refined.
Prayer rooms
Prayer rooms are also available at many airport lounges, including several marhaba Lounges across the world.
If there isn’t a prayer room available in your lounge, speak to a marhaba staff member – airports typically have several prayer rooms, which they’ll help you to find.
Smoking
Smoking almost always isn’t permitted inside airport lounges themselves, but many will have separate, dedicated areas you can use.
While several marhaba Lounges have smoking areas available free of charge, some may not – so it’s important to review the facilities at the lounge you’re booking. You may need to use an area elsewhere in the airport. If you’re at the lounge and are unsure, just speak to a friendly marhaba representative who will be able to point you in the right direction.
Food & drink
Another major perk of airport lounges is that food and drink is generally included in the price you pay to book.
Whatever time you access the lounge, you’ll have a variety of food and drink options to choose from throughout your stay, eliminating the stress of finding somewhere to eat at the airport.
In marhaba Lounges, you can indulge in a wide range of international and local dishes, with popular options including a traditional Arabic spread, fresh muffins, sandwiches and a variety of snacks - you’ll even find a delicious selection of nuts available in almost all lounges. A fantastic selection of hot and cold beverages is also on offer, from fresh juices and soft drinks to tea and coffee.
The food and drink available in marhaba Lounges is unlimited for the duration of your stay, so you can stay full and refreshed while you wait for your flight.
Food and beverage offerings may vary between marhaba Lounges depending on location, time of day and local availability. Please check with your specific lounge for the most up-to-date menu options.
Alcohol
The complimentary drinks available in airport lounges often includes alcoholic beverages too.
In marhaba Lounges, you can typically enjoy beers, wines and spirits, with some also having dedicated bar spaces where you can unwind.
In some locations, you can also enjoy premium and locally sourced alcohol – such as Jack Daniels, Grey Goose, Glenlivet 12 years old single malt or coctails etc,. Our full range of necessities and niceties is available for purchase at the reception, please don’t forget to check with your lounge before you book.
Internet & entertainment
Having fast, reliable internet can be transformative when it comes to the pre-flight airport experience.
At many airport lounges, you’ll have an exclusive internet connection that means you don’t need to depend on the often-inconsistent public network.
At marhaba Lounges, you’ll have complimentary high-speed WiFi that will allow you to browse social media, watch a film or work freely as you wait for your flight.
There is also a selection of international newspapers and magazines that can be accessed digitally to help you pass the time, as well as TVs and flight information screens throughout the lounges.
Babies & children
There are differing rules when it comes to babies and children in airport lounges, so it’s always a good idea to double check with your specific lounge.
If you’re visiting a marhaba lounge and travelling with children, you’ll be able to bring them along – and those under the age of 2 years old are admitted for free.
Children aged between 2 and 12 are typically charged a reduced rate, while a guardian of 18 years or older must accompany children at all times.
Some marhaba Lounges even feature dedicated kids’ rooms, complete with PlayStations and fun activities, making them the perfect space for families to unwind and enjoy a stress-free start to their journey.
Service
Airport lounges have dedicated staff who will be on hand to help throughout your stay.
When you book a marhaba lounge, you’ll be greeted by a friendly representative the moment you arrive and enjoy impeccable service until you depart for your flight.
The support of our expert team is another benefit of booking an airport lounge, providing you with a stress-free airport experience.
Book ahead of time
Now you’ve got an idea of all the benefits that come with an airport lounge, you may be considering making a booking to enhance your pre-flight experience.
While you can pay on the door at some airport lounges, it’s worth booking ahead of time to guarantee your space or gain priority access – particularly during busy periods.
Browse all the superb marhaba airport lounges available across the world, as well as several further partner lounge locations, and make a booking to ensure you have a refined, relaxing wait for your flight.
Frequently Asked Questions: Dubai Airport lounge access
Some airport lounges have a smart casual dress code, while others may have more relaxed policies.
Dress codes can vary across different lounge locations, but you’ll be fine to wear shorts in most. Try to avoid excessively casual clothing like athletic wear.
Internet access can be paid or complimentary at different airport lounges.
For the duration of your stay at a marhaba lounge, you can enjoy access to high-speed WiFi for free.
Airport lounges typically have different stay durations available when you make a booking.
For marhaba Lounges, you can generally book for two hours or pay more to stay for longer - up to eight hours in some locations.
Check the options for the specific lounge that you’re booking – and consider that some lounges aren’t open 24/7.
The price of an airport lounge differs depending on the location, and the services and facilities included.
You can expect to pay around USD 40 for a one-off visit, though some lounges can be considerably more expensive.
marhaba Lounges are an affordable option, offering comfortable, quiet facilities, a fantastic selection of food and drink, complimentary high-speed WiFi and more.
Deciding whether an airport lounge is worth the price depends on your priorities and travel plans.
If you value having the guarantee of a quiet, comfortable space to unwind ahead of your flight, they’re certainly worth considering.
They can be particularly beneficial if you need somewhere you can work interrupted, or you have a long layover and want a comfortable area to rest and refresh.
The cost of food and drink in the main terminal can add up quickly too, so booking an airport lounge can often provide a cheaper alternative.
marhaba Lounges
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