The List Awards 2026: Best in airport lounge experience

True luxury begins long before takeoff.

In the leading hubs of the GCC, these indulgent airline lounges represent the pinnacle of ground-side hospitality, defined by quiet elegance and a seamless transition from terminal to cabin. From private suites and quiet zones to museum-grade design and restaurant-worthy dining experiences, these high-end airline lounges anticipate every need of the global traveler.

Saudia First Class Lounge, King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah 1

Saudia First Class Lounge at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport is divided into dedicated first- and business-class sections. The first-class area, accessible to Alfursan Gold members, offers leather seating, quiet zones, and family areas in a space defined by clean, modern design and natural light.

Saudia Al Fursan Lounge

Saudia Alfursan Lounge (International) in Terminal 4 at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, serves first and business class passengers with leather chairs and quiet zones overlooking the terminal. Buffet dining includes lamb kofta, salads, and pastries, with Arabic coffee and dates at self-service stations.

Emirates First Class Lounge

Emirates First Class Lounge at Dubai International Concourse A covers 16,000 square metres with leather seating, quiet zones, and a cigar bar. Priority access for first class and Skywards Platinum includes 15-minute spa treatments. An à la carte restaurant offers eggs Benedict and grilled meats. We loved the layout, which extends along the length of the pier, with direct gate elevators to the aircraft.

Etihad Airways Lounge

Etihad First Class Lounge & Spa at Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport on Terminal A’s upper level features floor-to-ceiling windows and neutral tones with gold details. It includes business centres and private suites for first class and Guest Platinum, with complimentary 15- to 30-minute massages. The à la carte restaurant serves carpaccio and grilled lamb. We liked the integrated spa and direct boarding paths.

Qatar Airways - Marvel at the beauty of The Orchard from our new Al Mourjan Lounge — The Garden

Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge at Doha’s Hamad International Airport covers 10,000 square metres on level 3 with bronze walls and a reflection pond. Business class access includes work pods and shower suites. Passengers have access to quiet rooms (for four hours) and a children’s games room. Global deli buffets and an à la carte restaurant serve salads, curries, and lamb kebabs.

Oman Air First and Business Class Lounge at Muscat International Airport

Oman Air First & Business Class Lounge at Muscat International Airport, on the fifth floor, includes a business centre provided with iMacs and complimentary 30-minute spa treatments for first class. À la carte in first class serves grilled lamb, while business buffet includes curries and pastries.

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Qatar Airways -alsafwa-lounge-massage-spa

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This impressive alcazar of comfort spans level 3 with travertine stone walls, a reflection pond, and seating for 500 passengers in armchairs, sofas, and family suites. Access for first class and Privilege Club Platinum includes wifi, business centres, and shower suites with Diptyque toiletries, private bedrooms (for six hours), and spa treatments with hot tub. Open kitchens serve poached lobster and lamb kebabs. We loved the expansive facilities, spa integration, and chef-prepared meals.

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