Photo: EMIRATES Emirates has officially inaugurated Emirates First, a new luxurious check-in area located in Terminal 3 of Dubai International Airport (DXB), dedicated to first-class passengers and Skywards Platinum members.
This marks a significant upgrade in the ground experience for premium customers, offering a private and meticulously designed waiting area along with a unique and personalized check-in process.
Emirates, the world's largest operator of first-class flights with approximately 26,800 seats per week, emphasizes that the new complex reflects its ongoing investment in every aspect of the travel experience, from ground to air.
The Emirates First area is designed in neutral shades with warm earth tones and touches of bronze and gold associated with the company. It includes soft lighting, leather furniture, soft fabrics, impressive columns, wooden and marble flooring reminiscent of Emirates' new aircraft interiors, complete with illuminated Ghaf trees (the national tree of the UAE).
Check-in is conducted while sitting at private stations with iPads, including an option for designed counters. Family members can wait while a representative completes the check-in for everyone. Luggage is conveyed via a dedicated conveyor belt for first-class customers.
After a brief process, customers proceed directly to security and immigration, followed by one of Emirates' three first-class lounges in Terminal 3. There, à la carte meals, wines, champagne, spa treatments, a children's area, business centers, and a concierge service for duty-free purchases await.
The company notes that first-class customers enjoy free access to 43 Emirates lounges worldwide and dedicated Chauffeur Drive service at most destinations.
This ground innovation joins a comprehensive move announced by Emirates last May, which includes: elegant menus narrating the story of the wines served, dedicated caviar bowls designed by Robert Welch, rustic-designed cheese platters, and white-glove service by the first-class cabin crew.
The company's Chief Operating Officer, Adel Al Redha: "We are heavily investing in upgrading our ground products, and Emirates First is one of those environments that will offer a unique and private setting for first-class customers and Skywards Platinum members. We know our customers value privacy and comfort, and this is another step in enhancing our hospitality experience."
It is worth noting that Emirates suspended its flights to Israel since the "Iron Swords" war in October 2023.