View of part of the Fujairah Corniche and the Hajar Mountains in the Background

Friday, November 21, 2008

Emirates Terminal 3 in Dubai is Go

Signs approaching Dubai’s airport district this week indicated that all Emirates flights are now departing from the new Terminal 3.

Smooth Launch
Unlike the launch of some other international airports the gradual roll out of ET 3 has proved to be a smooth success.

Designed for Speed and Comfort
The new Terminal 3 is designed for optimum comfort and speed from the front door to the plane. A news report says:

“The underground terminal is located beneath the taxiways/aprons making it closer to the boarding gates. The facility is among the world's largest, yet its unique design, coupled with state-of-the-art people transportation solutions such as Skytrains and travelators make for quick jaunts between kerbside and aircraft. The lush green Zen gardens, complete with fountains, surrounding the food courts at either end of the airside facility provide respite during a busy travel schedule.”

Lounge Features
A letter from Emirates Airline to its customers this week announced what you can expect from the new lounges:

First Class Services
In brief you are offered:
* A spa followed by a massage
* Hair styling
* A range of three seating areas to suit your mood
* Water features and plants to soothe your mind
* A range of dining areas, juice bars
* Step into the Wine Cellar to select your expensive vintage
* A kid’s play area
* Complimentary WiFi access throughout the entire lounge
* Conference rooms if you need to do business

Check out this video and see for yourself.

Business Class Services
* Lounge designed around theme of Fire, Water, Air and Earth
* Range of dining and juice options
* Spa, massage and hair styling but at a fee
* Kid’s area
* Complimentary WiFi access throughout the entire lounge
* Two Business Centres and a conference room.

Check out the video showing Business Lounges

First Impressions
According to reports the Emirates Terminal 3 has been a big hit for the more than 500,000 passengers that had flown from the terminal by 18th November.

Comments have been made about:
* The massive baggage hall with 18 baggage carousels that provide a quick and easy getaway.
* More than 13,500 families have used the bright-red baby strollers and the Unaccompanied Minors Lounge providing a secure and entertaining outlet for children travelling alone.
* The privacy and space in the lounges
* The comprehensive range of duty free goods

Sources:
Emirates Terminal 3
Emirates Terminal 3 Has Arrived, Emirates News, 20 November 2008.

Dr Geoff Pound

Image: Kid’s Area at the Emirates Terminal 3.