Lounge areas have become an essential feature of many airports around the world. Airlines and credit card companies invest millions in creating luxury spaces to impress even the most discerning travellers. However, only a select few have the privilege of accessing these exclusive areas.

In this article, we’ve rounded up the top 10 airport lounges worldwide and outlined the entry requirements for each. Looking ahead, we can say that some of them can indeed be considered a piece of art, full of comfort, exquisite food, and superior service.

While we can be a bit biased, our selection criteria are clear and objective. We’ve considered industry awards, customer reviews, and official sources to compile this list. We believe it will be particularly valuable for business travellers looking for the best airport lounge experiences.

Emirates First Class Lounge, Dubai

Located within Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3, the Emirates First Class Lounge offers an outstanding experience with world-class service. Spanning the entire length of Concourse A (over 9,250 m²), it is one of the largest airport lounges in the world. Designed for privacy and comfort, it features plush seating, ambient lighting, and elegant décor, creating a sophisticated and relaxing environment.

A highlight of the experience is the exceptional dining, where guests can enjoy gourmet dishes prepared by world-class chefs. The à la carte menu is complemented by an extensive buffet, including delicacies like salmon sashimi and salad with a full lobster tail, along with a diverse selection of top-tier wine.

For ultimate relaxation, travellers can indulge in complimentary spa treatments, including massages and beauty therapies. A dedicated duty-free boutique allows guests to shop for luxury goods in an exclusive setting without leaving the lounge.

The lounge covers all the essentials, including bathrooms with showers, a quiet sleep area, and kids play zone with a PlayStation 5. For cigar lovers, there is an elegant cigar room with a separate bar.

Business travellers are well catered for, with private workstations with desktop computers, printing facilities, and conference rooms ensuring productivity on the go. One of the lounge’s most impressive features is direct boarding access, allowing passengers to proceed seamlessly from the lounge to their aircraft via private jetways.

The only drawback mentioned by some travellers is the lounge’s tremendous size. While some find the long distances a bit isolating, others see it as a benefit, appreciating the added privacy and exclusivity.

With its sophisticated ambience, premium dining, and exclusive comfort, the Emirates First Class Lounge remains one of the most luxurious pre-flight experiences in the world.

Access: The lounge is exclusively available to Emirates First Class passengers. Additionally, Emirates Skywards Platinum members and Qantas Platinum One & Platinum Frequent Flyers travelling in Business or Economy Class are eligible for access.

Air France’s La Première Lounge, Paris

Air France’s La Première Lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport offers an unparalleled first-class experience, seamlessly blending luxury, privacy, and excellent service.

Upon arrival, La Première passengers are met at the aircraft door by a personal escort and transported directly to the lounge via private vehicle, ensuring a smooth and exclusive transition.

The lounge’s sophisticated design features a variety of seating areas, including private relaxation spaces, a small nap-zone and a striking red-toned bar, creating an inviting atmosphere. Every corner is thoughtfully designed, reflecting elegance and attention to detail.

Culinary offerings, curated by known chef Alain Ducasse, include an exquisite à la carte menu complemented by a fine selection of wines and champagnes. The dining experience receives high praise from travellers and is consistently rated among the best in the industry.

Guests can freshen up in private bathrooms or indulge in complimentary spa treatments, including facials and body massages, enhancing their pre-flight comfort. The bathrooms are impeccably clean and stocked with high-quality toiletries, further elevating the experience.

When it’s time to depart, passengers are chauffeured directly from the lounge to their aircraft, ensuring a discreet and efficient boarding process.

We couldn’t find any significantly negative reviews about the lounge, except for the high cost of the lounge pass fee for business class passengers and private suite rooms. To be fair, the suites are truly elegant, each with a bedroom, living room, bathroom, and terrace.

In summary, Air France’s La Première Lounge sets the benchmark for luxury and personalised service, making it a strong contender for the best airport lounge in the world.

Access: Air France La Première passengers and certain Air France business-class passengers who pay an additional fee.

Swiss First Lounge E, Zurich

Zurich Airport has 4 lounges, but the Swiss First Lounge E is the most luxurious. This is where elegance meets minimalism. Designed to offer exclusivity and relaxation, the lounge provides a range of high-end amenities tailored to both business and leisure passengers.

One of the standout features is the gourmet dining experience. With a 5-star à la carte restaurant, guests can enjoy personalised dishes crafted by expert chefs at any time of the day. Complementing this culinary excellence is an extensive beverage selection featuring a champagne bar and an impressive wine humidor housing over 1,000 bottles from around the world.

For those needing rest and privacy, the lounge offers two exclusive hotel rooms with double beds, private bathrooms, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps. Business travellers can take advantage of private mini-suites, a VIP room, and a fully equipped conference room, ensuring a quiet and productive work environment.

Despite its total area of 750 m² and 80 seats in the lounge, some guests still find the space somewhat limited. However, most guests praise the excellent service, relaxed atmosphere, and impressive selection of food and beverages in both the buffet and restaurant.

Access: The lounges are open to guests departing or connecting on the same day in Swiss or Lufthansa First Class, as well as HON Circle members.

Cathay Pacific’s First Class Lounge “The Pier”, Hong Kong

The Pier First Class Lounge by Cathay Pacific at Hong Kong International Airport offers an impressive pre-flight experience, combining luxury, comfort, and tranquillity. Designed by renowned interior designer Ilse Crawford, the lounge spans 2,061 m² and accommodates up to 230 guests. Its warm tones, natural materials, and soft lighting create a serene and welcoming ambience, more akin to an upscale residence than an airport lounge.

The Dining Room offers a full-service à la carte menu featuring international and Asian cuisine. For a more casual option, the buffet provides self-service snacks, pastries, and beverages throughout the day.

Guests can also unwind at the lounge’s signature cocktail bar, which serves a sophisticated selection of handcrafted drinks. Expert bartenders craft classic and contemporary cocktails featuring premium spirits, fresh ingredients, and refined flavours, alongside a curated wine and champagne list.

Beyond dining, the lounge offers premium amenities designed for relaxation and productivity. The Day Suites provide private spaces with a daybed, reading light, and privacy curtains, allowing travellers to rest properly. Those needing to freshen up can enjoy luxurious shower suites with premium toiletries.

For ultimate relaxation, The Retreat, a wellness area, offers complimentary massage services, helping travellers relieve stress and muscle tension before their flight. Skilled massage therapists provide soothing neck, shoulder, and foot massages, making it a perfect stop for unwinding before departure.

We’ve noticed some complaints about long queues for foot massages during peak hours and a few comments about a limited food selection. However, The Pier lounge in Hong Kong remains one of the highest-rated in the world, providing a truly high-class service.

Access: Access to The Pier First Class Lounge is available to Cathay Pacific and oneworld First Class passengers and oneworld Emerald members, regardless of their travel class.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, London

For those flying in Upper Class, the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at London Heathrow Terminal 3 offers a refined yet lively retreat before departure. Designed with the elegance of a five-star hotel, this exclusive lounge provides a seamless blend of relaxation and entertainment.

Guests can enjoy freshly prepared meals throughout the day, from hearty breakfasts to gourmet dinners, a deli bar with salads, meats, cheeses, and pastries. The iconic Clubhouse bar serves expertly crafted cocktails, including the signature “Virgin Redhead”, alongside an extensive selection of drinks.

Beyond dining, the lounge offers varied entertainment and wellness options. Fitness enthusiasts can make use of the row of Peloton bikes before refreshing in the well-equipped showers — just don’t forget your gym gear. There’s also a pool table and a library for those looking to unwind in a more casual setting. The astroturfed roof terrace, with great airport views, is a perfect place for plane spotting or catching some fresh air before a long-haul flight.

This lounge receives exceptionally high ratings on most review platforms, with guests praising its extensive selection of food and drinks, excellent service, and friendly personnel.

Access: The lounge is exclusively available to Upper Class passengers on Virgin Atlantic, Delta One on Delta Air Lines, Clase Premier on Aeroméxico, and eligible Flying Club Gold Card and partner airline members.

Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club at LaGuardia Airport, New York

This is the newest airport lounge in our list, inaugurated on January 16, 2024, offers travellers a luxurious experience within the newly redeveloped Terminal B. Spanning over 2,025 m² across 2 levels, it stands as the largest in the Chase Sapphire Lounge network to date.

Situated post-security on the fourth floor of Terminal B, the lounge is conveniently accessible to passengers departing from the terminal. It operates daily from 4:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and accommodates a wide range of flight schedules.

The lounge’s design exudes modern elegance, featuring thoughtfully crafted spaces that reflect the vibrant energy of New York City. Amenities are spread across 2 floors, providing ample room for relaxation and productivity.

Travellers can indulge in a variety of fresh and seasonal menus, including select chef-created items from the renowned NYC restaurant Fairfax. Beverage options are equally impressive, with craft cocktails curated by Apotheke and a wine list selected by Parcelle. For coffee enthusiasts, the lounge offers both self-serve and barista-made beverages featuring NYC-based Joe Coffee alongside a selection of teas.

The lounge places a strong emphasis on wellness, featuring a dedicated area that offers facial treatments from Face Haus, meditations guided by Devi Brown, and private rest pods for travellers seeking serenity. Additional amenities include private and accessible bathrooms, a nursing room, and a family room, ensuring comfort for all guests.

In summary, the Chase Sapphire Lounge at LaGuardia Airport combines modern design with a comprehensive suite of amenities, offering a superior pre-flight experience for eligible travellers.

Access: Access to the Chase Sapphire Lounge is primarily available to Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders, who can enter the lounge with up to 2 guests by presenting their activated, complimentary Priority Pass Select membership and a valid boarding pass for a departing flight within 3 hours.

Holders of the J.P. Morgan Reserve Card and The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card with enrolled Priority Pass memberships also enjoy similar access privileges. Other Priority Pass members are granted one complimentary visit per year, with subsequent visits and additional guests incurring a fee.

Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge, Doha

The Al Mourjan Business Lounge by Qatar Airways is a premium retreat for travellers at Hamad International Airport. Spanning 10,000 m², it offers a sophisticated, serene space designed for business travellers and families.

With soaring ceilings and an elegant layout, the lounge creates a calm atmosphere, enhanced by a reflective water installation. Thoughtfully arranged seating ensures comfort for all guests.

Dining options include a buffet and à la carte menu in the main restaurant, featuring international and Middle Eastern cuisine. A café-style section offers snacks and beverages, while multiple stalls serve premium wines and spirits.

Travellers can enjoy private shower suites with luxury toiletries, a business centre with workstations and meeting rooms, and family-friendly areas with entertainment options, like TV Lounges and Gaming Area equipped with latest gaming consoles.

Despite its impressive design and world-class facilities, the Al Mourjan Business Lounge’s rating is not ideal. While it receives plenty of positive reviews, there is also a fair number of complaints. Common issues include difficulties with advance booking, food ordering, and recurring problems accessing the lounge, even for business class passengers.

Access: Al Mourjan Business Lounge is exclusively available to Qatar Airways Business Class passengers (excluding those booked on Business Lite fares) and oneworld Business Class passengers traveling on a oneworld partner airline.

Singapore Airlines First Class Lounge at Changi, Singapore

Located in Terminal 3 at Changi Airport, the Singapore Airlines First Class Lounge provides a spacious and elegant retreat for premium travellers. The lounge features warm tones, sleek furnishings, and a variety of seating areas, though the lack of natural light makes the space feel more enclosed compared to other premium lounges.

Dining options include a high-quality buffet with an open kitchen concept and a live chef station offering freshly prepared dishes such as laksa, wagyu sliders, and chicken satay. However, while the bar boasts a refined selection of wines, champagnes, and cocktails, its restricted service hours (bartender available only from 5:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. and barista coffee from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.) can be inconvenient, especially for travellers passing through different time zones.

For relaxation and comfort, the lounge provides shower suites with casual toiletries, nap rooms with twin beds, a children’s play area, and a soundproof phone booth for privacy. However, the nap rooms lack full privacy, featuring windows on doors and inconsistent lighting, which may affect rest.

Although the First Class Lounge at Changi Airport offers a decent experience with solid dining selections, comfortable amenities, and a chill atmosphere.

Access: Available to Singapore Airlines First Class and Suites Class passengers, Star Alliance First Class travellers on an international flight, and PPS Club Solitaire members flying Singapore Airlines Business Class, with some guest privileges depending on status.

JAL First Class Lounge, Tokyo

The Japan Airlines (JAL) First Class Lounge at Tokyo Haneda Airport Terminal 3 offers a blend of traditional Japanese elegance and modern comfort, creating an excellent pre-flight experience for premium travellers.

Designed by Ryu Kosaka, the lounge features multiple distinct areas. JAL’s Table provides a lively dining space, while Sushi Tsurutei offers freshly hand-crafted sushi. The RED SUITE, inspired by a classic gentlemen’s club, includes aviation memorabilia and games, while JAL’s SALON presents a quiet retreat with artisanal beverages.

Dining is a highlight, with à la carte dishes ordered via QR code featuring JAL’s signature Beef Curry and seasonal ramen. Guests can also enjoy premium champagnes, curated sake selections, and speciality coffee from Mi Cafeto.

Amenities include private shower suites, secure luggage storage, high-speed Wi-Fi, and private phone booths, ensuring both relaxation and productivity.

Experienced travellers have noted a recent change in the lounge’s floor plan. Feedback suggests that not all guests find the split across two floors convenient. Additionally, not all travellers are familiar with the Japanese minimalist meal set, leading to some feedback requesting larger portion sizes.

With its sophisticated ambience, authentic style, and superb Japanese cuisine, the JAL First Class Lounge at Haneda remains a top-tier choice for luxury travellers.

Access: The lounge is accessible to JAL First Class passengers, oneworld Emerald members, and JMB Diamond & JGC Premier status holders, with 1 guest permitted per traveller.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal, Frankfurt

For the First Class travellers, the Lufthansa First Class Terminal at Frankfurt Airport offers a deluxe experience from arrival to departure. Designed to provide privacy and sophistication, this standalone terminal delivers a first-class journey from start to finish.

Guests are welcomed by a personal assistant who handles check-in and security, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. A dedicated security checkpoint allows for quick access to the elegant lounge area.

The terminal offers excellent dining, with à la carte gourmet cuisine and a bar featuring over 100 whisky varieties. Guests can relax in comfortable lounge chairs, quiet rooms with daybeds, and luxurious shower suites, including one with a bathtub. There’s also a Cigar Lounge for those who enjoy a fine smoke.

Business travellers can use private office units, complimentary Wi-Fi, and duty-free shopping. Additionally, Lufthansa provides an exclusive limousine service, transporting First Class passengers directly from the terminal or lounge to their aircraft.

While the First Class Terminal offers an exclusive, private experience, it can be less convenient for connecting business travellers. Those arriving from a non-Schengen flight need to clear immigration, exit security, and walk outside the terminal to reach it. For those with tight layovers, the other First Class Lounges inside the terminal may be a more practical choice.

Another common complaint is the lack of airport views from the terminal windows, which can be a significant drawback for aviation enthusiasts.

Despite these accessibility challenges, the Lufthansa First Class Terminal remains one of the world’s most delightful pre-flight experiences, offering premium service, tasteful dining, and ultimate convenience — at least once you get there.

Access: The terminal is exclusively available to Lufthansa and SWISS First Class passengers departing or connecting on the same day and HON Circle members.

Travel with comfort every time

If you’re a frequent business traveller, comfort is key when choosing an airline. Our selection of the world’s 10 best airport lounges showcases how top airlines compete to attract premium customers with exceptional services. We highly recommend leveraging loyalty programmes and selecting credit cards strategically, as they can significantly enhance your travel experience and grant access to these exclusive spaces. Check out our article on business travel tips for more insights on making your journey even smoother.

The 10 best airport lounges in the World — and how to access them.

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