Dubai Airport (DXB) Terminal 1 - Lounges and Terminal Guide

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is Emirates’ hub, with the airline based in Terminal 3. But Terminal 1 is just as vital, serving over 90 international carriers. Oneworld, Star Alliance, and SkyTeam are all well represented, too.

Travellers here can access 8 lounges, including the SkyTeam, British Airways, and Lufthansa lounges, and contract options such as Ahlan and Marhaba. There are also sleeping cabins and showers.

This guide covers all the need-to-know details for Terminal 1, including its various services and lounges.

Buy a Lounge Pass at DXB

• Terminal 1 Overview (Airline Operations)

• Summary of Available Paid Lounges

• Individual Lounges

  • Ahlan Business Class Lounge

  • Ahlan First Class Lounge

  • marhaba Lounge

  • SkyTeam Lounge

  • British Airways Lounge

  • Gulf Air Lounge

  • Lufthansa Business Class Lounge

  • Lufthansa Senator Lounge

• Sleeping Pods

• Wellness Treatments

• Terminal 1 Family Facilities

• Overnight at Terminal 1

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Summing Up

With almost 100 international carriers using Terminal 1, here’s how the airlines are grouped by alliance and where they fit into the broader lounge landscape:

oneworld (British Airways Lounge)

• British Airways

• Cathay Pacific

• Finnair

• Malaysia Airlines

• Oman Air

• Qatar Airways

• Royal Air Maroc

• Royal Jordanian

• SriLankan Airlines

(Note that although Qantas is part of oneworld, it operates from Terminal 3 as it has a close bilateral relationship with Emirates.)

Star Alliance (Lufthansa lounges)

• Aegean Airlines

• Air Canada

• Air China

• Air India

• EgyptAir

• Ethiopian Airlines

• LOT Polish Airlines

• Lufthansa

• Singapore Airlines

• Swiss International Air Lines

• Thai Airways

• Turkish Airlines

• United Airlines

SkyTeam (SkyTeam Lounge)

• Air France

• China Eastern

• Kenya Airways

• KLM

• Korean Air

• Middle East Airlines

• Saudia

• Virgin Atlantic

Non-alliance airlines

There are too many to list, but key airlines include:

• China Southern Airlines

• EL AL

• Flynas

• Gulf Air

• IndiGo

• Kuwait Airways

• Pakistan International Airlines

• Philippine Airlines

• SpiceJet

• Vistara

Travellers have three paid access lounge options offering food, drinks, showers, and a place to recharge before their flight:

• Ahlan Business Class Lounge

• Ahlan First Class Lounge

• marhaba Lounge

The Ahlan First Class Lounge is the highest-rated choice, followed by the Ahlan Business Class Lounge; the marhaba Lounge is a solid final backup.

You can also pay for a shower at these non-lounge facilities:

• Be Relax Spa

• sleep 'n fly (includes cabin/bedroom, too)

The Ahlan Business Class Lounge is one of the most versatile spaces at DXB. Open to airline invited guests as well as general paid access, the lounge balances international dining with practical features like showers, prayer rooms, and a children’s play area.

Location: Airside Terminal 1, Concourse D, Level 2, above the departure gates.

Opening Hours: 24 hours daily

Amenities: Hot and cold international buffet, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (alcohol limited during Ramadan), separate children’s playroom and prayer room, complimentary showers, smoking room, TVs, flight monitors, Wi-Fi, charging outlets, internet terminals, optional spa treatments via Timeless Spa (for an additional fee).

Access Options:

Buy a Pass to the Ahlan Business Class Lounge

• LoungePair Pass: Purchase a flexible lounge pass via LoungePair which offers walk-up access without a fixed time/date booking. LoungePair offers 3 hours access from $47 USD per adult (170 AED), a fully refundable pass for an additional $6 USD (19 AED), or a free pass when purchased together with a LoungePair+ membership.

• Other Advance Purchase Options:

  • Access can be purchased via LoungePass for $44 USD. This option requires selecting a specific date and time for your visit, and you must purchase your pass a minimum of 24 hours before your planned visit. LoungePass also offers an extended stay package for 3-4 hours for $58 USD.

• Memberships:

  • A DragonPass membership plan will get you entry into this lounge, for a maximum 4 hour stay. You can also purchase a one-off walk-up pass for $55 USD, without a membership.

  • Priority Pass and Dreamfolks members can access this lounge as per their membership benefits.

  • Complimentary guest entitlements will depend on how you have obtained your membership with any of these programs.

• Travel Class or Airline Status:

  • Passengers who have emerald or sapphire tier membership status or are flying business or first class on a oneworld member airline (Cathay Pacific, Royal Jordanian, Sri Lankan Airlines) have access to the Ahlan Business Class Lounge.

  • Eligible Business Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members flying with Aegean Airlines, Air India, or Air China can access the Ahlan Business Class Lounge.

• Cardholders:

  • Access is available with cards offering Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or DragonPass memberships. Examples include:

    • Priority Pass‑linked cards like American Express Platinum (+ 1 guest), and Diners Club

    • LoungeKey via eligible Mastercards.

    • DragonPass via Visa Airport Companion (Visa Platinum/Infinite/Signature)

    • Mastercard Travel Pass

• Walk Up Access: You can purchase a pass at the reception desk directly. 

Helpful Tips:

• The lounge is busiest late evenings. Mornings and mid afternoons tend to be calmer.

• Families may appreciate the dedicated play area, rare among DXB’s contract lounges.

• Alcohol is available but restricted during Ramadan.

The Ahlan First Class Lounge in Concourse D is the more exclusive counterpart to the Ahlan Business Lounge, offering a calmer atmosphere and elevated dining. It is often less crowded than its business-oriented counterpart.

Location: Airside, Terminal 1, Concourse D, Level 2, in the main airline lounge area.

Opening Hours: 24 hours daily.

Amenities: À la carte menu and live cooking station alongside hot and cold buffet, bar, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, complimentary shower facilities, Wi-Fi, newspapers and magazines, nap rooms (available for an additional fee), optional spa treatments via Timeless Spa (for an additional fee), charging ports.

• Nap room fees:

  • AED 195 for 2 hours, AED 275 for 3 hours, and AED 350 for 4 hours

  • Each extra hour costs AED 100

  • Single occupancy only; pay at reception

Access Options:

Buy a Pass to the Ahlan First Class Lounge

• LoungePair Pass: Purchase a flexible lounge pass via LoungePair which offers walk-up access without a fixed time/date booking. LoungePair offers 3 hours access from $60 USD per adult (219 AED), a fully refundable pass for an additional $6 USD (22 AED), or a free pass when purchased together with a LoungePair+ membership.

• Memberships:

  • A DragonPass membership plan will get you entry into this lounge, for a maximum 4 hour stay. You can also purchase a one-off walk-up pass for $55 USD, without a membership.

  • Dreamfolks members can access this lounge as per their membership benefits.

  • Complimentary guest entitlements will depend on how you have obtained your membership with either of these programs.

• Travel Class or Airline Status:

  • Passengers who have emerald tier membership status or are flying first class on a oneworld member airline (Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways) have access to the Ahlan First Class Lounge.

• Cardholders:

  • Access is available with cards offering DragonPass memberships. Examples include:

    • DragonPass via Visa Airport Companion (Visa Platinum/Infinite/Signature)

• Walk Up Access: You can purchase a pass at the reception desk directly. 

Helpful Tips:

• Guests report a calmer, more private environment than the Ahlan Business Lounge.

• Ask staff about the à la carte menu, as there may be dishes not available in the buffet.

• The lounge has a reputation for fast Wi-Fi compared to other T1 options, making it a good spot for remote work.

The Marhaba Lounge in Concourse D is one of the airport's most accessible spaces. However, while reviewers note that it provides a reliable stop for food, Wi-Fi, and rest, crowding and dated furnishings are common complaints. 

The lounge offers practical amenities like a children’s play zone, shower facilities, and a smoking room, alongside a buffet of international hot and cold dishes. But compared with the nearby SkyTeam Lounge or Ahlan lounges, we think the marhaba is better considered as a backup option.

Location: Airside, Terminal 1, Concourse D, Level 2, near the main contract lounge corridor.

Opening Hours: 24 hours daily

Amenities: Buffet, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, kids zone, TV/theatre room, shower facilities (charges apply), Wi-Fi, telephone services, iPads, massage chairs and separate smoking room.

Access Options:

Buy a Pass to the Marhaba Lounge

• LoungePair Pass: Purchase a flexible lounge pass via LoungePair which offers walk-up access without a fixed time/date booking. LoungePair offers 3 hours access from $33 USD per adult (122 AED), a fully refundable pass for an additional $5 USD (19 AED), or a free pass when purchased together with a LoungePair+ membership.

• Other Advance Purchase Options:

  • Access can be purchased via LoungePass for $55 USD per adults for 3 hours maximum. Children aged 2-11 are charged $30 USD. This option requires selecting a specific date and time for your visit, and you must purchase your pass a minimum of 24 hours before your planned visit.

  • Plaza Premium offers access in 4 hour (200 AED) and 8 hour (299 AED) packages.

• Memberships:

  • A DragonPass membership plan will get you entry into this lounge, for a maximum 3 hour stay. You can also purchase a one-off walk-up pass for $55 USD, without a membership.

  • Priority Pass and Dreamfolks members can access this lounge as per their membership benefits.

  • Complimentary guest entitlements will depend on how you have obtained your membership with any of these programs.

• Travel Class or Airline Status:

  • Passengers who have emerald or sapphire tier membership status or are flying business or first class on a oneworld member airline (Finnair, Royal Air Maroc) have access to the Marhaba Lounge.

  • Eligible Business Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members flying with Air Canada, Air India, Ethiopian Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines) can access the Marhaba Lounge.

• Cardholders:

  • Access is available with cards offering Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or DragonPass memberships. Examples include:

    • Priority Pass‑linked cards like American Express Platinum (+1 guest), and Diners Club

    • LoungeKey via eligible Mastercards.

    • DragonPass via Visa Airport Companion (Visa Platinum/Infinite/Signature)

    • Mastercard Travel Pass

• Walk Up Access: You can purchase a pass at the reception desk directly. 

Helpful Tips:

• Expect crowding during peak evening and overnight departures.

• For a quieter or more premium experience, the SkyTeam or Ahlan lounges are generally more highly rated.

The SkyTeam Lounge offers a sizeable space with sleek curved interiors, warm wood tones, and a striking wall of greenery. The lounge spans 960 m² with seating for 180 guests.

Location: Airside, Terminal 1, Concourse D, Upper Level above Duty Free.

Opening Hours: 24 hours for airline guests only. Priority Pass members are restricted to entry times 02:00-20:00 (2am-8pm) and have to pay extra to use a shower. 

Amenities: TVs, buffet, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, children's play area, business centre, shower facilities, flight monitors, internet terminals, Wi-Fi, charging ports.

Access Options:

• Memberships:

  • Priority Pass members can access this lounge as per their membership benefits.

  • Complimentary guest entitlements will depend on how you have obtained your membership with this program.

• Travel Class or Airline Status:

  • The SkyTeam lounge can be accessed by international First or Business class ticket holders or SkyTeam Elite Plus frequent flyers travelling on or transferring between a same-day international flight operated by a SkyTeam member airline (AirFrance, Korean Air, KLM, Kenya Airways, MEA, China Eastern, Virgin Atlantic).

• Cardholders:

  • Access is available with cards offering Priority Pass, and LoungeKey memberships. Examples include:

    • Priority Pass‑linked cards like American Express Platinum (+1 guest), and Diners Club

    • LoungeKey via eligible Mastercards.

    • Mastercard Travel Pass

• Walk Up Access: You can purchase a pass at the reception desk directly. 

Helpful Tips:

• Arrive early if you plan to use the shower rooms, as they are first come, first served and can fill quickly during peak hours.

• The terrace area is a good place for fresh air and a quieter break during busy periods.

• Priority Pass guest access is limited to 02:00-20:00 (2am-8pm). DragonPass members do not have access to this lounge. 

Reopened on 30th September 2025 after an extensive renovation project, the British Airways Lounge is a fully new build spanning 5,800 sq ft. The project aimed to address long standing complaints about the lounge’s small size, limited food options, and lack of showers by creating a larger, more modern space with improved dining and premium amenities. The new lounge features a full service bar, à la carte dining (through a 'Concorde Dining Room' for First Class customers), and a blend of British and Middle Eastern architectural style.

Location: Terminal 1, Concourse D, First Floor lounge area after Duty Free shops (via escalator).

Opening Hours: 06:30 - 13:00 (6:30am-1pm), and 20:30 - 02:00 (8:30pm-2:00am)

Amenities: Self-service buffet (Arabic breakfast, mezze selections, cakes, cheeseboard, and hot dishes), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Concorde Dining Room, Wi-Fi, power outlets, flight monitors, charging ports, TVs.

Access Options:

• Travel Class or Airline Status:

  • Access is granted to British Airways passengers in First or Club World (Business), and to Executive Club Silver and Gold members.

  • Also available to oneworld Emerald/ Sapphire tier members or business/first class passengers flying with British Airways. As a Sapphire or Emerald member, you can invite one guest per departure flight to join you in the lounge. The guest must be travelling on British Airways.

  • To access the Concorde Dining Room you must meet one of the following criteria:

    • Flying British Airways First Class from Dubai (the only guaranteed way to access the room).

    • Oneworld Emerald Status and flying British Airways in a qualifying cabin (usually Club World or higher)

The Gulf Air Lounge is one of only three branded Gulf Air lounges worldwide, alongside lounges in Bahrain and London. It provides Falcon Gold Business Class passengers and Falconflyer elites with a dedicated space at DXB, though the lounge itself is modest compared to alliance or premium partner facilities.

Location: Airside, Terminal 1, Concourse D, Upper Level above Duty Free.

Opening Hours: 05:00-00:00 (5am-midnight)

Amenities: Buffet, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, workstation, internet terminals, storage room, Wi-Fi, prayer room, smoking area, flight monitors, charging ports.

Access Options:

• Travel Class or Airline Status:

  • Entry is based on flying Gulf Air in Business Class (Falcon Gold cabin) or holding Gulf Air elite status. Access is available to Black, Gold and Silver Falconflyer cardholders. Black card holders can bring two guests free of charge. Gold card holders may bring one guest free of charge. Falconflyer Silver are not permitted to bring guests. Must be traveling on a same day Gulf Air-operated flight.

Helpful Tips:

• Expect a compact space with limited capacity that can feel crowded during peak Gulf Air departures.

• Wi-Fi has been noted as unreliable, so prepare to rely on mobile data if needed.

• Food and drink variety is limited compared to nearby contract lounges.

• The lounge is best suited for short stays.

• Access is restricted to Gulf Air premium passengers and Falconflyer elites, so confirm eligibility before heading upstairs.

The Lufthansa Business Lounge serves passengers traveling in business class on Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance airlines, offering a straightforward space for late evening departures. It is co-located/adjacent with the Lufthansa Senator Lounge section. There is some internal connectivity between the two.

Location: Airside, Terminal 1, Concourse D, mezzanine above Duty Free.

Opening Hours: 20:30-02:00 (8:30pm-2am)

Amenities: Buffet, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, power outlets, TVs, shared shower facilities with the Senator Lounge, business amenities (printers and copiers), flight monitors.

Access Options:

• Travel Class or Airline Status:

  • Eligible Business Class, First Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members flying with Lufthansa airlines can access the Lufthansa Business Class Lounge.

  • HON circle members are also able to access this lounge.

  • Paid/walk-in access is not generally offered for the Lufthansa Business Lounge in DXB.

• Cardholders:

  • American Express Platinum (no guests) provides access to this lounge. Access is only possible with a Lufthansa Group (Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Air Dolomiti, Edelweiss Air, Eurowings, Discover Airlines, Lufthansa, Lufthansa City Airlines, SWISS) flight.

• Helpful Tips:

  • This location does not accept passengers in airline uniforms or passengers traveling with reduced airline tickets.

  • First class passengers and Star Alliance Gold and Lufthansa elite members should use the Senator Lounge instead.

  • The lounge only operates in the evening, so travellers with earlier departures need to plan accordingly.

  • Food quality is functional, though some travellers have noted the Thai dishes as a highlight.

The Lufthansa Senator Lounge is the more premium counterpart to the adjacent Business Lounge, catering to Star Alliance Gold members, First Class passengers, and Lufthansa’s own elites. It offers a modest but noticeably upgraded food and drink selection compared to the Business Lounge, along with its own bathrooms and a small business area. The lounge has seating for around 70 guests.

Location: Airside, Terminal 1, Concourse D, mezzanine above Duty Free.

Opening Hours: 20:30-02:00 (8:30pm-2am)

Amenities: Business centre, luggage storage, copy machine, buffet (curry, rice, vegetables, soups, salads, snacks), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, shared showers with the business lounge, TVs, flight monitors, Wi-Fi.

Access Options:

• Travel Class or Airline Status:

  • Eligible First Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members flying with Lufthansa airlines can access the Lufthansa Senator Lounge.

  • HON circle and Lufthansa Senator members are also able to access this lounge.

  • Paid/walk-in access is not generally offered for the Lufthansa Senator Lounge.

• Cardholders:

  • American Express Platinum (no guests) provides access to this lounge. Access is only possible with a Lufthansa Group (Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Air Dolomiti, Edelweiss Air, Eurowings, Discover Airlines, Lufthansa, Lufthansa City Airlines, SWISS) flight.

Helpful Tips:

• The food selection is a step up from the Business Lounge, but still modest compared to premium lounges at hub airports.

• Shower access is shared with the Business Lounge, so wait times can occur.

• Best used for a short refresh before late-night flights.

Why choose this over a lounge: Perfect for a real bed and space dedicated to rest for overnight layovers or long connections.

The sleep ’n fly YAWN Lite cabins in Terminal 1 provide a private and quiet alternative to lounges, located opposite Gate D7 and open 24 hours. Guests can choose between single and double cabins, each with proper bedding, USB ports, and power sockets, designed to allow genuine rest in a dark, air-conditioned environment.

Cabins can be booked for stays ranging from a few hours up to a full day. Showers are available for an additional fee, and each cabin comes with linens and towels. The setup is intentionally minimal, with no flight information screens or entertainment, but travellers benefit from privacy, silence, and basic comfort.

Why choose this over a lounge: Ideal if you want a quick wellness boost with a massage, nail care, or beauty treatment rather than food, drinks or a quiet space.

The Be Relax Spa in Terminal 1 is located opposite Gate D9 and is open 24 hours. Travellers can choose from a menu of express treatments, including massages, oxygen lounger sessions, nail services, facials, and showers. Treatments are designed to be short and effective, making them practical during layovers. Walk-ins are accepted (subject to availability), and advance booking is also available. 

LoungePair Offer: LoungePair guests can purchase a pass to receive one the following treatments: 15min back massage on a chair +15 min foot massage on a chair / 30min lounger massage + oxygen (automatic lounger). Selected treatments are available upon staff availability.

You can purchase a flexible 2 hour pass for $36 USD, a fully refundable pass for an additional $5 USD, or a free pass when purchased together with a LoungePair+ membership.

Please note: Our pass option is a good idea for the foot massage / lounge chair massage, but you should opt to pay direct for a back massage as it is a better deal.

Buy a Pass to the Be Relax Spa

Parents will find multiple baby care rooms throughout the terminal, each equipped with hot water dispensers, changing tables, and private spaces for nursing. These are signposted and open 24 hours a day.

Strollers can be requested through your airline, and dedicated family security and immigration lanes help reduce waiting times when travelling with little ones.

Other useful areas include accessible washrooms, wide corridors for moving strollers, and family seating areas near some of the larger restaurants. 

The marhaba and SkyTeam lounges have kids’ zones for those who want to enjoy a dedicated area for their children to play.

For late night departures, early morning arrivals, or unexpected layovers in Terminal 1, you have several options to rest without leaving the airport:

24‑Hour Pay‑Per‑Use Lounges

• Ahlan Business Class Lounge: Open 24 hours with buffet dining, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and free showers. A versatile option for passengers seeking both rest and a meal before departure.

  • Helpful tip: Arrive outside of the late evening departure banks if you want a calmer atmosphere and faster shower access.

• Ahlan First Class Lounge: Open 24 hours with à la carte dining, a buffet, a full bar, free showers, and nap rooms (for an additional fee). Offers a quieter, more refined environment than the Ahlan Business Lounge.

  • Helpful tip: Ask staff about the à la carte menu, as not all dishes may be listed in the buffet area.

• marhaba Lounge: Open 24 hours with a buffet, kids’ play zone, TV room, Wi-Fi, and showers (for an additional fee). A practical option for walk-up guests, though often crowded during peak hours.

  • Helpful tip: If you are travelling with children, the dedicated kids’ zone makes this lounge more appealing than others in the terminal.

Sleeping Pods

• sleep ’n fly: Located opposite Gate D7, private single or double cabins are equipped with bedding, power sockets, and air-conditioning. Stays can be booked for 2-24 hours, and showers are available (for an additional fee).

  • Helpful tip: Reserve in advance for overnight layovers, as cabins sell out quickly during busy travel periods.

Dubai International Airport has three main passenger terminals. Terminal 1 is closely linked to Terminal 3 and to its own Concourse D, both located to the south of the main runways, but Terminal 2 is in a separate location to the north of the runways.

Helpful tip: Lounges are available in both T1 and T3, and since the two are connected airside, eligible passengers can use lounges in either terminal. However, be sure to leave enough time to get from the lounge to your gate.

To Terminal 3 (Emirates hub)

• T1 and T3 are connected airside by a walkway and a free shuttle bus.

• Lounges are available in both terminals, and eligible passengers can use either.

• Walking between terminals can take 5-30 minutes depending on your starting point.

• The shuttle is faster if you’re moving between distant concourses.

• Landside, you can walk or take the Dubai Metro, with T1 and T3 only one stop apart.

  • Helpful tip: Always allow extra time, as walking distances in both terminals are long, especially to far-end gates.

To Terminal 2

• T2 is in a separate area of the airport and is not directly connected to T1.

• You must clear immigration, then take transport such as a shuttle or taxi to reach it.

• The road journey typically takes 15-20 minutes.

  • Helpful tip: We do not recommend attempting a connection between T2 and T1 or T3 unless you have a very long layover or separate ticket, since you will need to re-clear immigration and security on both ends.

To Concourse D (within Terminal 1)

• The majority of international airlines at T1 operate from Concourse D, which is reached by the Automated People Mover (APM).

• The train journey takes just a few minutes and runs continuously.

• T3 already has Concourses A, B, and C, which mainly serve Emirates flights. Concourse D was introduced specifically for international airlines at T1.

Helpful tip: Walking time from the lounge level to your gate can vary significantly, so plan 10-20 minutes for gate transfers once you are in Concourse D.

Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 1 offers a wide mix of lounges and rest options, catering to over 90 international airlines. From airline branded spaces like Lufthansa’s lounges to contract options such as Ahlan and marhaba, or the newly renovated British Airways lounge, travellers can choose between premium dining, functional business facilities, or family friendly spaces with kids zones.

Among contract lounges, the Ahlan First Class Lounge is the standout choice, followed closely by the SkyTeam Lounge, while sleep ’n fly cabins provide an opportunity for rest in privacy. Families benefit from play rooms in both the SkyTeam and marhaba lounges.

Taken together, T1 is one of DXB’s most versatile gateways. Whether you need a quiet meal, a proper bed, or simply a place to refresh before boarding, the terminal provides solutions across every budget and travel style.