British Airways Introduces New VIP Lounge Concept with Openings in Miami and Dubai
British Airways has inaugurated its two new VIP lounges in Miami and Dubai, marking the beginning of a new era in the customer travel experience. These openings represent the debut of the airline’s innovative design concept, developed in partnership with the global architecture and design firm Gensler, which will serve as the model for future renovations across its international network.
Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, stated: “We are delighted to introduce our new concept with the openings in Miami and Dubai. These spaces have been created with our customers in mind, whether they wish to relax, dine, work, or enjoy a cocktail at the fully serviced bar. Every detail reflects our British essence combined with the unique character of each destination.”
Design with a Global Identity
Inspired by British heritage and the personality of each city, the new spaces are distinguished by a coherent design that aims to evoke feelings of well-being, connection, and tranquility. Furthermore, they include what the airline calls “look-up moments”: unexpected visual details designed to surprise the visitor.
Miami: British Elegance with an Art Deco Soul
The airline once again has its own lounge at Miami International Airport for the first time in decades. At 1,200 square meters (13,000 square feet), it becomes the largest lounge operated by British Airways outside of London.
Located in Terminal E, right above its departure gate, the lounge combines British ingenuity with the city’s Art Deco aesthetic. The large windows offer panoramic views of the runway and take advantage of the characteristic natural light of South Florida.
The project involved local contractors such as TGA Consulting, Nunez Construction, and Bermello & Ajamil Architects, and utilized American materials selected for their quality and craftsmanship.
A Bar with Views and Exclusive Cocktails
The heart of the lounge is a full-service bar strategically positioned in front of the windows. Expert bartenders prepare international classics and unique creations like the Prickly Margarita, alongside beers and spirits, including local craft beer.
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Versatile Spaces for Every Traveler
The lounge is divided into five main areas, which include a dining space, focus pods, a central lounge offering more privacy, and two shower suites with a design inspired by Miami’s beach chairs.
In the dining area, dishes prepared with local produce and a British touch are offered, such as Papaya and Kale Salad with Toasted Coconut and Citrus Honey Vinaigrette, or Southern Florida Flounder Filet with Lemon, Kalamata Olives, Fried Capers, and Rice.
Concorde Dining Room: The Jewel for First Class Passengers
First Class travelers enjoy an à la carte fine dining experience in the exclusive Concorde Dining Room. Options include Wagyu Striploin with Truffle Reduction and Roasted Scallops, accompanied by champagnes and English sparkling wines such as Pommery Cuvée Louise 2005.
Dubai: Fusion of British Elegance and Arab Art
At Dubai International Airport, Terminal 1, British Airways presents a new 540-square-meter (5,800-square-foot) lounge that blends contemporary British design with the aesthetic richness of the United Arab Emirates.
Developed with local contractor Al Tayer Stocks, the space incorporates curved arches, laser-cut metal panels, and mirrored walls that evoke traditional Gulf architecture. A full-service bar presides over the main area.
Artisanal Details and Exclusive Design
Travelers enter through a framed portal that leads to a sophisticated environment, featuring fluted marble, antiqued mirror ceilings, and custom-made finishes. The focal point of the lounge is a suspended chandelier beneath a mirrored ceiling which highlights the airline’s iconic speedmarque.
The restrooms are decorated with local geometric tiles, while the seating incorporates traditional British fabrics to provide comfort and character.
Cuisine that Unites Two Cultures
The self-service area offers a menu combining Arabic and British flavors: traditional Middle Eastern breakfast, a selection of mezze, pastries, cheese boards, and typical desserts.
Among the beverages, champagnes, English sparkling wines, and exclusive cocktails such as the Dubai Chocolate Martini or the Bucks Free Fizz, prepared with fresh orange juice and Lyre’s Classico Grande non-alcoholic sparkling wine, stand out.
The experience is complemented by coffee from Coffee Planet, an Emirati brand renowned for its high-quality Arabica beans, and tea from Birchall, British Airways’ new global partner.
Concorde Dining Room: À La Carte Luxury
First Class passengers enjoy an exclusive area with independent access and personalized service. The menu includes Arabic mezze, the traditional dessert Umm Ali, and British classics like the Concorde Wagyu Burger and Scottish smoked salmon. The different seating configurations allow guests to choose between tables, the bar, or comfortable armchairs.
A Global Hospitality Concept
Ashley Dowell, Design Director and Senior Associate at Gensler, emphasized that the new approach “charts the course for a global lounge concept inspired by British Airways’ heritage and enriched with the vitality of each location.”
This redesign, she added, aims to provide welcoming, intuitive, and bold spaces that offer travelers a surprising sanctuary to work, relax, or socialize before their flight.
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