Emirates, the renowned Dubai-based airline, has marked a significant milestone in its Saudi Arabian operations with the grand opening of its first-ever lounge at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. This luxurious facility represents a substantial investment of AED20 million ($5.4 million) and underscores Emirates’ commitment to enhancing passenger experiences in one of its key global markets.
A New Era of Luxury for Emirates Passengers in Jeddah
The newly inaugurated lounge, spanning an impressive 900 square meters, is strategically located in Terminal 1 of Jeddah’s state-of-the-art airport. Designed to cater to Emirates’ discerning First and Business class travelers, as well as Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members, the lounge boasts a capacity to comfortably accommodate over 190 guests simultaneously.
Key Features of the Emirates Lounge:
- Sophisticated design with regional influences
- Variety of seating configurations for dining, lounging, and quiet relaxation
- Wide range of dining options
- Luxurious shower facilities
- Dedicated prayer room
Strategic Location and Accessibility
The lounge’s prime location on the third floor of Terminal 1’s Departure area ensures easy access for Emirates passengers:
- 10-minute walk from the terminal entrance
- 3-5 minute walk to boarding gates A28B and A38B, where Emirates’ triple daily A380 services operate
Celebrating 35 Years of Service to Jeddah
This lounge opening coincides with Emirates’ 35th anniversary of operations to Jeddah, highlighting the airline’s long-standing commitment to the Saudi market. Mohammed Mattar, Divisional Senior Vice President Airport Services at Emirates, emphasized the significance of this milestone:
“Jeddah was our first gateway into the Kingdom 35 years ago, so it’s fitting that the King Abdulaziz International Airport, a world-class facility, is the first airport in the region outside of Dubai to feature an Emirates dedicated lounge.”
Supporting Saudi Vision 2030
The substantial investment in this new lounge aligns with Emirates’ strategy to support the aviation goals outlined in Saudi Vision 2030. By enhancing its presence and service quality in Saudi Arabia, Emirates is contributing to the Kingdom’s ambitions to become a global aviation hub.
Expanding Emirates’ Global Lounge Network
With the addition of this new facility in Jeddah, Emirates continues to expand its impressive network of premium lounges:
- 7 lounges across three concourses at Dubai International Airport (DXB)
- 32 lounges in various international destinations
- The Jeddah lounge becomes the 40th in Emirates’ global network
A Collaborative Effort
The official opening ceremony was attended by key figures from both Emirates and Saudi aviation authorities, including:
- Nasser Huwaiden Al Ketbi, Consul General of UAE in Jeddah
- Engr. Raed bin Ibrahim Al-Mudaiheem, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Jeddah Airports Company (JEDCO)
- Eng. Mazen Johar, CEO of JEDCO
Eng. Mazen Johar highlighted the significance of this development: “The launch of Emirates lounge at King Abdulaziz International Airport reflects the 35-year-long strategic relationship of providing multiple travel options to passengers through the airline’s three daily flights.”
Looking Ahead
As Emirates continues to invest in its ground services and lounge facilities, passengers can expect an increasingly seamless and luxurious travel experience. The new Jeddah lounge sets a high standard for premium travel amenities in Saudi Arabia and reinforces Emirates’ position as a leader in global aviation.
For travelers passing through Jeddah on Emirates, this new lounge offers a taste of luxury and comfort before their flight, enhancing the overall journey and solidifying Emirates’ reputation for exceptional service both in the air and on the ground.
JobXDubai 
Leave a comment