Accommodation New Zealand introduces
Emirates Airlines continues its commitment to excellence with the launch of a sophisticated new First Class facility, Emirates First, located at Dubai International Airport’s (DXB) Terminal 3. Dedicated exclusively to Emirates’ First Class passengers and Skywards Platinum members, the upgraded area delivers a distinctly superior airport experience, setting a new global benchmark for luxury air travel.
As a leader in premium aviation, Emirates currently offers approximately 26,800 international First Class seats weekly—the highest number in the airline industry. This extensive new investment at its Dubai hub illustrates Emirates’ determination to continuously enhance the journey for premium travelers, from initial arrival to ultimate departure.
The refined luxury begins the moment passengers approach Emirates’ dedicated First Class departure area within Terminal 3. Passengers are warmly welcomed at a prominent golden gateway, specially designed to symbolize the exclusivity awaiting within. Here, an Emirates representative efficiently verifies each passenger’s eligibility, smoothly guiding them into a carefully curated private sanctuary designed for both comfort and elegance.
The exclusive space is meticulously planned, emphasizing both aesthetics and functionality. Interior decor blends warm earth tones with Emirates’ trademark golden-bronze accents, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. Polished wooden and marble floors offer a visually appealing contrast, while plush carpeting defines the relaxing seating areas. Sumptuous leather sofas and soft upholstered armchairs are thoughtfully arranged, providing passengers ample personal space to unwind peacefully away from busy terminal activities.
Acknowledging the importance of time and ease to premium travelers, Emirates First delivers a streamlined, personalized check-in experience. Passengers can conveniently complete all required check-in procedures comfortably seated, assisted by professional Emirates staff equipped with iPads. Families traveling together particularly benefit from this service, as one representative can manage the entire group’s check-in seamlessly.
Additionally, traditional check-in counters remain available for passengers who prefer face-to-face interactions. These counters, elegantly constructed from marble and brass, further enhance the premium environment. Here, First Class baggage is carefully tagged and loaded onto dedicated belts, ensuring priority handling throughout the boarding process.
Following a seamless check-in, Emirates First passengers benefit from expedited routes through airport security and immigration processes. This exclusive pathway significantly reduces waiting times, allowing passengers to transition quickly from check-in to relaxation, enhancing their overall airport experience.
Once past security, Emirates First customers have exclusive access to one of the three luxurious Emirates First Class Lounges located conveniently within Terminal 3. These lounges offer extensive amenities tailored specifically to the discerning premium passenger.
Guests enjoy gourmet àla carte meals crafted by renowned chefs, complemented by an exceptional selection of fine wines, exclusive spirits, and premium Champagne. Recognizing the varied needs of passengers, Emirates’ lounges also feature comprehensive business facilities, including private meeting rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, and discreet working areas.
To further enhance passenger comfort, complimentary spa treatments and wellness services are available within the lounges. Families traveling with young children will appreciate dedicated children’s entertainment zones, thoughtfully designed to engage and entertain young travelers. Moreover, a concierge duty-free shopping service ensures passengers experience convenient, personalized retail assistance within a relaxed environment.
The unveiling of Emirates First complements Emirates’ well-known Chauffeur Drive Service, available to First Class passengers, seamlessly connecting luxury transportation directly to the airport. Passengers thus enjoy a complete premium experience, beginning at their doorstep and continuing through airport arrival, check-in, lounge relaxation, and finally, onboard Emirates’ renowned inflight services.
Emirates consistently garners accolades for its exceptional onboard experience, marked by luxurious private suites, award-winning dining options, and unparalleled in-flight entertainment systems. The launch of Emirates First firmly reinforces the airline’s dedication to harmonizing every aspect of the premium passenger journey, both in the air and on the ground.
Adel al Redha, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the significance of this launch, emphasizing Emirates’ enduring commitment to innovation in passenger hospitality. Al Redha noted that the meticulous attention to passenger privacy, convenience, and personalized service underpins every innovation and upgrade introduced by the airline.
Industry professionals and travelers interested in Emirates’ latest technological innovations and strategic initiatives can gain further insights at the upcoming Future Travel Experience (FTE) Global conference, scheduled for September 9–11, 2025, in Long Beach, California. Emirates’ Melanie Bryant, Vice President of IT Delivery and Business Enablement, will participate in a dedicated session discussing the advancements in digital identity and seamless travel efforts.
With Emirates First now operational, Emirates once again sets the standard in global premium aviation, underscoring its unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. Passengers choosing Emirates can confidently expect an airport experience that surpasses all previous standards, characterized by efficiency, privacy, luxury, and meticulous personal attention.
This latest evolution at Dubai International Airport marks yet another chapter in Emirates’ ongoing journey to redefine excellence, ensuring every First Class passenger experiences an extraordinary travel journey from the moment their trip begins until they reach their destination.
