Today, Emirates announced it would be reopening its first class lounge in Concourse B at Dubai International Airport. The lounge was previously closed due to the pandemic. However, as international travel demand increases, Emirates believes now is the time to reopen.

Like many airlines and airports, Emirates shut down its lounge operations as travel ground to a halt. Not only was demand low, but health and safety complications made operating lounges for the public complicated. Then, in November of last year, Emirates announced it would begin reopening its lounges worldwide.

The first lounge to reopen was in Cairo. Now, the Dubai-based carrier is reopening its major first class lounge at Dubai International. The lounge, situated in Concourse B, is very popular with travelers connecting in Dubai. As connections increase due to growing international demand, the lounge is now ready to host passengers once again.

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A better lounge than before

According to Emirates, there are plenty of health and safety procedures in place to keep passengers safe while they wait. The result is that even the Timeless Spa will be open for treatments. And the airline hasn’t wasted the time the lounge has been closed. It’s been given a refresh and slight makeover to be fully ready for guests.

The airline also took feedback from customers on the menu options adding more vegan and gluten-free options as well as other healthy options for those looking for a lighter meal. Of course, you can still get foie gras terrine and Aberdeen Angus steak if you’d like!

The refreshed lounge features new menu options for Vegans as well as gluten-free choices. Photo: Emirates

A new way to buy tickets

Emirates also announced its new partnership today with Deutsche Bank. Developed with Deutsche Bank and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Emirates Pay is now available for customers in the UK and Germany.

Emirates is taking proactive steps to welcome back passengers safely and confidently. Photo: Emirates

Having an Emirates Pay account allows customers to quickly and easily buy tickets online by directly debiting a bank account. The real-time payments mean customers can book tickets quickly at a good price without the need for a card. Account-to-account payments are quick and easy for customers, and mean airlines can keep track of fraud and boost liquidity during this difficult period.

Michael Doersam, Chief Financial Officer at Emirates, said:

"We're pleased to be the first airline to roll out this new account-based solution for our customers. Our aim is to provide our customers with choice, convenience, and the best possible experiences at every touchpoint. Customers who don't have a credit card, and those already using direct payments for other purchases, will welcome the simplicity and security of this method when making travel purchases.”

With its new payments style now available in two countries and more and more lounges reopening, Emirates is clearly ready for an increase in travel demand. The Dubai-based airline is taking a proactive approach to encourage customers to return to flying rather than just waiting for demand to pick up.

What do you think of today’s announcements from Emirates? We’d love to hear what you think, so get in touch and let us know in the comments.