Emirates has opened its new £10 million lounge at Manchester Airport's Terminal 2, marking the first location in the United Kingdom to feature the airline's latest signature lounge concept, the carrier announced.

The investment brings more than 50 design enhancements to the airport, combining contemporary interiors, locally themed dining, integrated technology, and wellness-focused amenities, according to a statement from Emirates.

Mohammad Mattar, Divisional Senior Vice President, Airport Services at Emirates, said Manchester was "an important gateway" in the airline's global network and that the scale of the investment reflected its long-term commitment to the region. He said the new lounge concept was intended to raise the standard for premium airport lounges by combining hospitality, innovation, and attention to detail.

Design and facilities

The lounge is divided into zones for relaxation, work, socialising and dining. It features Italian eco-leather seating with wireless charging and power access at every seat, herringbone floors, a signature Emirates scent, and a display of artefacts honouring international artists and Emirati culture, alongside Rolex clocks showing global time zones.

Other facilities include upgraded shower suites, a Quiet Zone with soft lighting and sleep amenities, private spaces, and prayer rooms. Emirates said it is the only airline at Manchester Airport offering direct boarding from its lounge to the aircraft.

Local dining focus

Dining in the lounge is built around an open show kitchen and live cooking, along with a barista bar and a dedicated mixologist serving locally inspired drinks, including a signature cocktail combining Vimto Summer, grenadine, lemonade, and strawberry. A "Made in Manchester" menu features regional dishes such as Fleetwood-marinated king prawns, oven-baked Fleetwood sea bream, and Wigan meat and potato pie, alongside Shetland kippers, Lancashire smoked trout, and Cheshire cheeses. The menu is served alongside a broader international menu and a selection of wines, beers, spirits, and Champagne.

Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, welcomed the opening, saying it reflected the airport's aim of connecting passengers "from across the North with the world" with a best-in-class experience. He noted that the lounge's design, its direct-boarding feature, and its Manchester-inspired menu complemented the airport's ongoing £1.5 billion transformation of Terminal 2, which he said was now largely complete.

Access

Emirates currently operates three daily flights between Manchester and Dubai. The lounge, open up to four hours before departure, is available free of charge to First Class and Business Class passengers, as well as Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members, including those travelling in Premium Economy and Economy Class. Other Emirates customers may purchase access on arrival.

Source: PR