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On July 6, Emirates unveiled a roadmap for its next-generation lounges, a signature lounge concept set to become the airline’s global standard. Each converted lounge represents an investment of more than 50 million AED (approximately $13.6 million US) per lounge, and the rollout is already underway in Germany.
For members of the Emirates Skywards program, this change directly affects the experience tied to Platinum and Gold status. Here’s what’s changing in practical terms, where, and from when.
Emirates is announcing more than 50 design upgrades, in line with its latest cabins: warm, streamlined décor, discreet integrated lighting, and premium materials. The concept affects both the layout and the services offered on site.
Each next-generation lounge includes a “Made In” space dedicated to local dishes, as well as an open-kitchen area where food is prepared live in front of travellers. A dedicated oven also makes it possible to serve pizzas and flatbreads, with flavours inspired by Dubai.
Emirates currently operates 42 lounges, including 8 in Dubai and 34 internationally. The new concept was first rolled out in Germany, in Munich and Frankfurt. Other stops will follow in the coming months.
No Dubai (DXB) lounge is among the first sites announced. Travellers who use our Review of the DXB First Class lounge or the DXB Business lounge are therefore, for now, enjoying the current version of these spaces.
Access to Emirates lounges remains unchanged in principle. It remains free for First and Business Class passengers, as well as for Skywards Platinum and Gold members, even when travelling in Premium Economy or Economy Class. Paid access is also still available for other travellers.
For Canadians who earn Skywards miles by transferring bank points or through a co-branded credit card, this rollout makes Platinum or Gold status more attractive to target, since the lounge experience tied to these statuses will be upgraded over the coming months. Our page on the best credit cards for airport lounge access details options that also provide access to a network of lounges.
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As of July 6, 2026, information confirmed directly from the official Emirates press release (June 30, 2026), relayed by Voyages d’Affaires.
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