British Airways’ new Miami and Dubai lounges introduce a cohesive global design language rooted in hospitality, culture, and comfort, redefining premium airport experiences through elegance, innovation, and thoughtful local touches.
British Airways has started a new chapter in its premium traveller experience with the unveiling of two lounges situated in Miami International Airport and Dubai International Airport. These lounges herald a fresh design philosophy thoughtfully woven from British elegance and the rich cultural tapestry of each destination — a perfect marriage of heritage and local spirit that signals the future of British Airways’ global lounges.
As part of the airline’s ambitious £7 billion transformation programme, these new spaces bring to life a bold architectural vision developed in collaboration with the renowned global design firm Gensler.
The new concept for lounges unites a sophisticated design language rooted in British originality with the distinctive character of Miami’s Art Deco vibrancy and the intricate fretwork and grandeur of Emirati architecture.
Speaking on the milestone, Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, expressed excitement at the launch: “Our new lounges in Miami and Dubai represent more than just spaces to wait — they’re destinations in themselves, designed for rest, delight, and productivity. We’ve sought to blend British wit and charm with the soul of each location, ensuring our customers feel both at home and inspired.”
Miami: A 13,000-Square-Foot Tribute to British Flair and Floridian Sunshine
The Miami lounge marks British Airways’ return with its first proprietary space in decades, becoming the largest BA-operated lounge outside London. Perched above the departure gate in Terminal E, the expansive 13,000-square-foot lounge emits a confident celebration of light, air, and design. Daylight streams through wide windows, revealing panoramic views of the airfield beneath Miami’s iconic blue skies.
Local Miami contractors and artisans were enlisted to bring the vision to life, ensuring authenticity in every detail — from quality materials sourced across the U.S. to nods referencing Miami’s Art Deco landmarks.
Central to the layout is a stunning full-service bar, perfectly framed by broad windows, where skilled bartenders craft signature cocktails like the exclusive Prickly Margarita alongside a rich variety of spirits and local ales, inviting guests to unwind with drinks that taste of place.
Five seamlessly connected zones accommodate diverse guest needs, featuring a main dining area, focus pods for work, a lowered central lounge for those seeking privacy, and rejuvenating shower suites styled with vibrant Miami deck chair-inspired décor.
The dining offerings echo this theme of local-meets-British with dishes like papaya and kale salad, freshly prepared in a state-of-the-art kitchen, paired with seafood selections reminiscent of South Florida’s coastal bounty.
An elevated experience awaits First Class travellers within the exquisite Concorde Dining Room, where guests savour an à la carte menu boasting Wagyu beef, diver scallops, and are complemented by fine Champagne and English sparkling wines.
Dubai: A Majestic Blend of British Sophistication and Middle Eastern Grandeur
At Dubai International’s Terminal 1, the new lounge is a nearly 5,800-square-foot sanctuary reflecting the UAE’s rich architectural heritage alongside British modernity. Warm hospitality reigns amid artisanal touches like fluted marble columns, antique mirrored ceilings, and locally inspired metal fretwork panels.
A chandelier framed by a mirrored ceiling creates a striking “look-up” moment in the main dining area, where British Airways’ iconic speedmarque elegantly floats above. Locally sourced geometric tiles embellish washrooms, and seating crafted from British heritage fabrics invites comfort and charm.
The dining scene is equally rich with choices — from aromatic Arabic breakfasts, mezze platters, and traditional dessert Umm Ali, to British originals like Concorde Wagyu burgers and Scottish smoked salmon. A sophisticated drinks menu features premium champagnes, English sparkling wines, and expertly mixed cocktails like the Dubai Chocolate Martini and Bucks Free Fizz, expertly crafted with fresh orange juice and non-alcoholic sparkling wines.
Complementing the fare is Coffee Planet, a UAE coffee brand hailed for its premium Arabica blends, alongside Birchall, British Airways’ choice for global British teas.
Echoing Miami, the Dubai lounge features a secluded Concorde Dining Room for First Class and Gold Guest List guests—an oasis of exclusivity with its own distinctive décor, menu, and seating arrangements catering to a refined dining experience.
A New Standard of Lounge Hospitality
Ashley Dowell, Design Director at Gensler, reflected on the collaboration: “We are honoured to have helped British Airways formulate a cohesive global lounge concept that balances hospitality, heritage, and local culture. The lounges are warm, intuitive spaces that provide moments of calm and connection for travellers around the world.”
These openings follow recent thoughtful investments in lounges at London Gatwick, Lagos, Singapore, Seattle, and Washington Dulles, marking British Airways’ commitment to elevating every step of the passenger journey.
Access is offered to British Airways customers flying in First and Club World (business class), British Airways Club members with Silver status and above, and oneworld customers with Sapphire status and above, underscoring the brand’s dedication to rewarding loyalty and premium travel.
The washrooms in the Miami lounge.
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