The VIP Lounge at the Dubai International Airport – Terminal III is a mini airport in itself. With its state-of-the-art facilities and impeccable services that rival 5-star amenities, it is a much sought-after place among travellers.
Called the Al Majlis, the VIP Lounge is the favourite of world-renowned celebrities, says Najla Al Midfa, Manager, VIP Lounge. “About 90 per cent of the lounge users are wealthy Dubai residents,” she adds.
Najla Al Midfa is the grand-daughter of Ibrahim Mohammed Al Midfa, who played an important role in the establishment of the UAE federation and edited the first newspaper in the UAE, ‘Saut Al Asafir’, which translates as ‘Voice of the Sparrow’, in 1933.
There is no differentiation between heads of states and common public. Anyone who uses the lounge receives the same facilities.
Reem Lootah, Public Relations, Dubai Airport, says, “What distinguishes Al Majlis at the Dubai International Airport from other such halls worldwide is that people visiting the lounge also get to enjoy the same services and facilities.”
Saud Sharar, Executive Services, says, “Visitors to the lounge can also enjoy the same food as those of the guests.”
According to the latest statistics, about 41,000 passengers used the VIP Lounge in 2012 and the gross income touched about Dh20 million.
Najla expects about 100,000 users this year, with the gross income doubling to hit Dh40m.
She says, “His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is my ideal and I will work towards making the VIP Lounge the number one globally.”
The VIP Lounge consists of 9 halls. Three dedicated for large delegations, such as sports teams, and six for families.
Currently, the halls can accommodate between 120 and 160 people a day. “There are plans to double the capacity,” says Najla.
There are 50 luxury cars and 90 staff members, who have undergone intensive hospitality training to exclusively serve the VIP Lounge users, says Sharar.
He says, 90 per cent of users of the Lounge fly Emirates airlines. The rest 10 per cent take other airlines.
In fact, right from the moment a person enters the hall, his needs are taken care of up until he boards the flight. Similarly, upon arrival, VIP Lounge bookers are met as soon as they exit the plane and are escorted through the requirements and housed at the Lounge.
Celebs and you
Certain seasons see more rush at the VIP Lounge. For instance, between November and March, there is a rush of Russians now, as it is holiday season in Russia.
GCC nationals can be seen in more numbers during the summers and holidays. Also, Indians and British during their respective holiday seasons.
Similarly, every time Dubai hosts an exhibition or conference, there is an increase of VIP Lounge users.
Among the famous personalities who have stayed at the Al Majlis are former US Presidents Bill Clinton and George W Bush; artists Sylvester Stallone; Mohammed Abdo; Hussein Al Jasmi ; Ahlam; Haifa Wahibi among others.
Cost
The cost of the majlis use per booking is Dh1,500 per adult; Dh500 for a child below age 12. Kids below three years are not charged.
While the Ministry of Foreign Affairs takes care of the booking of state guests, the general public can visit the airport website and make online bookings.
Alternatively, travellers can call +97145045196 or +9712245555 to for bookings.
