marhaba’s arrival introduces a service to assist arriving, departing or transiting travellers in navigating airport complexities and late-night flights. The service offers personalised support from kerb to gate, including fast-track access through immigration and security, baggage handling, and optional porter services.

marhaba’s offering will cater to those flying via Manchester Airport, one of the UK’s busiest gateways serving 27 million passengers annually. The airport frequently experiences round-the-clock traffic – especially during peak summer holidays and major regional events such as football matches, conferences, and music festivals.

Surging global demand for premium travel

The UK launch reflects broader trends in airport hospitality as services once reserved for VIPs gain traction among families, corporate travellers, and tourists seeking premium travel to minimise stress at increasingly busy terminals.

First introduced in the UAE in 1991, marhaba’s signature Meet & Greet services are now available across eight countries in the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Australia. These include some of the busiest travel hubs, such as Dubai, Zurich and Sydney.

Clive Sauvé-Hopkins, CEO – Airport Operations at dnata: “Launching marhaba in the UK is part of our broader strategy to bring the warmth and care of Arabian hospitality to more travellers around the world.”

“This expansion reinforces our focus on delivering a seamless airport experience – one that’s efficient, personal and consistently high quality. As part of dnata, marhaba builds on our strong UK presence across airport operations, catering, retail and travel services, allowing us to offer even greater value to passengers and partners.”

Delivering seamless, stress-free journeys

Over the years, marhaba has expanded its portfolio to include everything from fast-track immigration clearance and baggage handling to access to private airport lounges and chauffeur services. More recently, it started offering off-airport services for passengers based in Dubai, including Check In Anywhere and Land & Leave. Customers can also book access to over 400 lounges and Meet & Greet services provided by the brand’s global partners.

Bookings for marhaba’s Meet & Greet services at Manchester Airport are now available at marhabaservices.com.

About marhaba

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International airport. The popularity of Meet & Greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

To book or find out more about marhaba’s services, visit www.marhabaservices.com. Travellers can relax and refresh before boarding their flight at marhaba lounges by presenting eligible credit cards or membership in other lounge access programs, or with purchase upon entry.

About dnata

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in more than 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2024-25, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 794,000 aircraft turns, moved 3.1 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 114 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 2.6 billion. For more information, visit dnata.com.

Driven by a commitment to patient well-being, the partnership ensures a smooth and stress-free travel experience that complements the quality of care provided by PRIME Health.

marhaba will provide its full airport hospitality offering to support medical travellers, including its signature Meet & Greet, Chauffeur and Lounge services. In addition, its recently announced Check-in Anywhere and Land & Leave solutions will further enhance the journey, enabling a smooth, hands-free experience from arrival to departure.

Jaffar Dawood, dnata’s Divisional Senior Vice President - UAE Airport Operations, said: “We are pleased to partner with PRIME Health to further enhance the medical tourism experience in Dubai. With marhaba’s personalised service and Arabian hospitality, twinned with Dubai’s world-class infrastructure, we ensure medical travellers feel looked after from the moment they land. This partnership reflects our shared focus on care, comfort and service excellence.”

Dr. Jamil Ahmed, Founder and Managing Director, PRIME Health, said: “At PRIME Health, we believe exceptional care starts well before a patient enters the hospital. Our partnership with marhaba ensures international patients receive a warm, stress-free welcome the moment they land. By combining world-class hospitality with trusted medical expertise, we are redefining the healthcare journey — making it as seamless and supportive as possible from arrival to recovery.”

Dubai welcomed over 691,000 people for medical treatments in 2023, with spending on healthcare services exceeding AED 1.03 billion (US$ 280 million). The emirate is rapidly positioning itself as a leading global destination for medical tourism, combining advanced healthcare with world-class luxury and personalised care.

According to PRIME Health, international patient flows to Dubai have grown across diverse medical specialisms, with dentistry, dermatology, cardiology, and fertility treatments leading demand. Medical tourists increasingly seek Dubai's orthopaedic treatments, particularly joint replacement surgeries, and the city’s range of the latest cosmetic treatments also remain popular with visitors.

As part of its growing network, PRIME Health also operates medical centres within terminals one and three at Dubai International airport (DXB), providing convenient access to high-quality care for travellers.

marhaba, which means ‘welcome’ in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International airport. The popularity of meet & greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai’s growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel catering & retail services in over 30 countries across six continents.

The move creates one of the most comprehensive airport service offerings in the world – enabling passengers flying from Dubai to check in and hand off their luggage remotely, fast-track through immigration, and relax in a lounge, all while experiencing marhaba’s signature hospitality in one seamless booking.

As part of the integration, marhaba now offers three signature DUBZ services under its own umbrella:

• Check-In Anywhere allows passengers to check in from the comforts of their home, hotel or office – where certified check-in agents will issue boarding passes and collect luggage, which is securely delivered to the airport
• Land and Leave enables arriving passengers to skip baggage claim entirely, with their luggage delivered to their doorstep within hours of landing
• Baggage Storage and Delivery offers travellers flexible short-term or extended baggage storage options, as well as secure same-day delivery across the UAE – ideal for transit passengers, early checkouts or those looking to experience the city baggage-free

Check-In Anywhere and Land and Leave are now bookable directly via marhabaservices.com, with Baggage Storage and Delivery offered at designated service points in Dubai. Combined with its core offerings – including Meet & Greet and lounge access – these services position marhaba as one of the few global providers delivering a fully integrated hospitality journey that extends well beyond the airport terminal.

The announcement follows a significant uptick in demand for smarter airport experiences. According to IATA’s most recent Global Passenger Survey, speed and convenience at airports remain a top priority among travellers around the world – some 70% of respondents said they would prefer checking in their luggage in advance to avoid long queues.

Since dnata acquired a majority stake in DUBZ in 2018, the service has seen consistent year-on-year growth – particularly among families, business travellers and premium passengers. In 2024 alone, DUBZ served over 70,000 passengers through its off-airport check-in, Land and Leave, and baggage storage and delivery services – marking a 15% growth compared to the previous year.

“We're seeing a fundamental shift in how people want to travel,” said Jaffar Dawood, Divisional Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations at dnata.

“Whether it’s a family trying to simplify their departure or a business traveller looking to save time, the demand for seamless airport experiences has never been higher. With this integration, we’re anticipating those needs and going beyond them. It’s about removing friction and giving people back time and peace of mind.”

The move also comes as Dubai International (DXB) airport continues to scale new passenger records, with more than 92 million travellers passing through in 2024 – a figure projected to rise even further in the year ahead. As a response, airports worldwide are accelerating investments in off-airport processing technologies to streamline operations and enhance journeys.

Since launching in 1991, marhaba has served millions of customers across key international hubs, including Dubai. By bundling off-site check-in, meet & greet, fast-track clearance and other services, the company positions itself as a one-stop solution in the airport hospitality services market. 

Located at Gate 9 in the departure terminal, the new marhaba lounge offers a comfortable and stylish retreat for up to 170 guests. Travellers can enjoy a diverse all-day buffet, featuring local and international cuisine, along with a variety of hot and cold beverages. Guests can unwind in private sleeping pods, watch live TV, or stay productive in dedicated business meeting rooms, while benefitting from complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. The lounge also includes a private mother’s room, shower facilities and prayer rooms to accommodate the needs of all travellers.

In addition to the lounge, passengers at CRK can also take advantage of marhaba’s signature Meet & Greet services, designed to provide a seamless and stress-free airport experience. These services provide a personalised journey through the airport formalities with the assistance of customer-oriented agents who ensure a smooth transition to either the arrivals area or departure gate.

Besides Clark, marhaba offers airport Lounge services at Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in The Philippines.

Margaret Yu, CEO of dnata The Philippines, said: “We are delighted to further expand our airport hospitality offerings in the Philippines. Our new lounge in Clark, combined with our Meet & Greet services, allows us to provide travellers with a seamless, end-to-end airport experience. Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring a warm, welcoming and memorable journey for every passenger.”

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International airport. The popularity of meet & greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

In recent years marhaba has significantly expanded its network to provide world-class hospitality and deliver a safe and memorable airport experience for more travellers globally. It currently operates 18 airport lounges in seven countries, including the UAE, Australia, Switzerland, Pakistan, Singapore, Tanzania (Zanzibar) and the Philippines, offering guests a consistent brand and service experience at each airport. In the UAE, Australia, Switzerland, Zanzibar and the Philippines, passengers can further enhance their journey by booking marhaba’s signature Meet & Greet services.

Travellers can relax and refresh before boarding their flight at marhaba lounges by presenting eligible credit cards or other lounge access programs, or with purchase upon entry. In addition to marhaba’s products, customers can also book access to over 400 lounges and Meet & Greet services provided by the brand’s global partners on www.marhabaservices.com.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers. A trusted partner or over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services in over 30 countries.

Jaffar Dawood, dnata's Divisional Senior Vice President, UAE Airport Operations, said: “As more travellers head home or embark on holiday trips this festive season, demand for seamless airport services continues to rise. Whether reuniting with loved ones or heading off on new adventures, our marhaba team is here to make every journey smoother and more enjoyable with our range of personalised services. Our helpful agents look forward to contributing to a memorable experience for both leisure and business travellers, at every stage of their journey.”

Rising demand for premium airport services

In 2024, marhaba has experienced a significant surge in demand for its premium airport hospitality services, with passengers from the UAE, UK, India and USA leading the way in enhancing their airport journeys.

Key highlights include a 43% increase in USA passengers choosing marhaba’s Meet & Greet, Lounge, and Chauffeur Services, reflecting a growing preference for convenience among long-haul travellers who prioritise time and comfort. marhaba’s personalised approach to hospitality also continues to resonate with elderly passengers and families, particularly among UAE customers travelling in large groups.

marhaba’s services are often booked by relatives eager to provide their loved ones with a smooth airport experience.  Key markets for such bookings include India with over 20,000 passengers taking advantage of marhaba’s services every month.

marhaba has seen the biggest, 65% growth in passengers travelling to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, demonstrating a solid demand from business travellers this year.

Convenience every step of the way

marhaba’s services are designed to offer maximum convenience for travellers. The popular Home Check-in service allows passengers to check-in from the comfort of their homes in minutes, with boarding passes issued on-site. Baggage is securely tagged, transported to the airport, and loaded on to the aircraft – eliminating stress on travel day.

Passengers can also opt for marhaba’s Chauffeur service, offering exclusive vehicles equipped with child seats for families, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride to the airport.

Meet & Greet makes airport experience a breeze

Whether departing, arriving or transiting at Dubai’s airports, passengers are greeted by marhaba’s helpful Meet & Greet professionals, who guide them through airport formalities with ease. With a team of agents fluent in 20 languages and representing 46 countries, marhaba delivers a highly personalised services tailored to individual needs.

Travellers using the Meet & Greet service can breeze through DXB, the world’s busiest international airport, with the help of fast-track lanes and buggy transfers. 

Quality lounge hospitality

marhaba’s six spacious lounges in Dubai provide a serene retreat for travellers looking to relax and refresh. This festive season, an estimated 300,000 travellers are expected to enjoy Arabian style hospitality, complete with international cuisine, superfast wi-fi and comfortable seating.

Several marhaba lounges also feature a quiet zone for relaxation, shower facilities and dedicated kids areas.

Last-minute assistance with concierge services

Travellers passing through Dubai International’s Terminal 1 and 2 can also benefit from marhaba’s concierge services, providing a one-stop solution for last-minute travel needs. Located in the Departure Halls, marhaba’s desks offer a comprehensive range of services, including ticket bookings, travel insurance, meet & greet assistance, lounge access, visa cancellations and fast track processing.

marhaba: a home-grown Dubai brand

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International airport. The popularity of Meet & Greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

To book or find out more about marhaba’s services, visit www.marhabaservices.com. Travellers can relax and refresh before boarding their flight at marhaba lounges by presenting eligible credit cards or membership in other lounge access programs, or with purchase upon entry.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers. A trusted partner of over 330 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services in more than 30 countries across six continents.

*All predicted data between 1 December 2024 and 15 January 2025

Both arriving and departing passengers can take advantage of marhaba's signature Meet & Greet services in Milan. marhaba's dedicated agents provide a warm welcome to customers and escort them through the airport formalities right up until the arrival area or the departure gate. SEA Milan Airports also provides personalised services to marhaba customers, including security Fast Track. In addition, ‘Gold’ services include access to the airport’s departure lounge. 

marhaba’s airport hospitality services are expected to be increasingly popular among both business and leisure travellers, further strengthening Milano Malpensa’s offering and position as a prominent international airport in Milan, a global hub for trade shows, conferences and events.

Shahab Al Awadhi, Head of marhaba Global, said: “We are proud to be partnering with the SEA Group to take the airport experience to new heights at Milano Malpensa airport. This long-term partnership brings together two leading organisations with a shared goal of elevating the airport experience. We will work closely together to consistently provide passengers with unparalleled comfort, convenience and quality throughout their journey. We look forward to contributing to Malpensa airport’s continued growth.”

Luigi Battuello, Executive Vice President Commercial Non-Aviation of SEA Milan Airports, added: "Milano Malpensa is enriched with an innovative "Meet & Greet" service dedicated to high-end passengers. The new partnership with marhaba, an international company with the highest experience in the sector, will offer a double choice in Malpensa airport. The personalised assistance services are available to intercontinental passengers, both arriving and departing. This prestigious partnership confirms the effort of SEA, the Company, who manages Milano Linate and Milano Malpensa airports, to aim the utmost customer satisfaction according to the highest international standards, by combining SEA’s lounges’ hospitality with a wide range of personalised assistance."

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International airport. The popularity of Meet & Greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

In recent years marhaba has significantly expanded its network to provide world-class hospitality and deliver a safe and memorable airport experience for more travellers globally. It currently operates 18 airport lounges in seven countries, including the UAE, Australia, Switzerland, Pakistan, Singapore, Zanzibar (Tanzania) and the Philippines, offering guests a consistent brand and service experience at each airport. Besides Italy, in the UAE, Zanzibar (Tanzania), Australia, Switzerland, the Netherlands and the Philippines passengers can further enhance their journey by booking marhaba’s signature Meet & Greet services.

Travellers can relax and refresh before boarding their flight at marhaba lounges by presenting eligible credit cards or other lounge access programs, or with purchase upon entry.  In addition to marhaba’s products, customers can also book access to over 400 lounges and Meet & Greet services provided by the brand’s global partners on www.marhabaservices.com.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers. A trusted partner or over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in more than 30 countries. 

About marhaba

Launched at Dubai International airport in 1991, marhaba is a premium Meet & Greet and Airport Lounge Service provider that aims to make the passenger journey as easy and comfortable as possible, by providing invaluable airport services to passengers ranging from tourists and families, to VIPs and corporate customers. marhaba offers Meet & Greet Services at nine airports globally, and operates or manages 18 departure airport lounges in seven countries, the UAE, Singapore, Switzerland, Pakistan, Australia, Philippines and Tanzania (Zanzibar).

marhaba is part of dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider. dnata offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents.

For more information, visit: https://www.marhabaservices.com/ 

About SEA Milan Airports

Company that manages the airports of Milan Malpensa and Milan Linate, among the top 10 airport operators in Europe in terms of volume of cargo and passenger traffic, the second in Italy in terms of number of passengers and the first in terms of cargo transported. By making airports grow, we contribute to the growth of an entire territory: its people, its economy, its capacity for employment, its centrality in the process of global connection. Our mission is to boost this growth on a sustainable path, widely shared and with respect for all.

For more information, visit: http://www.seamilano.eu

Between April and September 2023, marhaba’s dedicated team catered to over 1.2 million travellers across DXB’s three terminals. Notably, marhaba’s popular lounges attracted around 900,000 customers during the same period, reaching a peak of over 8,000 visitors on its busiest day in June. 

marhaba has recently expanded its offering by launching marhaba Concierge, a one-stop shop for passengers’ last-minute requirements. Located at the Departure Halls of DXB’s Terminal 1 and 2, these concierge desks offer a comprehensive range of services, including ticket booking, travel insurance, meet & greet, lounge, visa cancellation and fast track services. Additional desks are set to be introduced within DXB’s three terminals in the near future.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “marhaba’s significant growth reflects Dubai’s sustained popularity and a rising demand for our quality airport hospitality services. The introduction of marhaba Concierge further expands our offering, providing travellers with swift and efficient solutions at Dubai International. We will continue to enhance our services to improve passengers’ experience throughout their airport journey.”

Meet & Greet welcomes more families

From fast-track clearance to helping with transfers and baggage, marhaba ensures a swift and safe passage for passengers through DXB. Between April and September 2023, over 210,000 customers accessed its Meet & Greet services at the airport. 

Families increasingly seek out marhaba’s services for hassle-free journeys. Over the six-month period, its dedicated agents warmly welcomed and expedited over 10,000 families through airport formalities.

Popular international cuisine at marhaba’s lounges

Each of marhaba’s five, spacious DXB lounges offers superfast Wi-Fi and access to an international cuisine catering to a wide range of dietary and ethnic requirements.

Customers experiencing marhaba’s quality lounge hospitality favoured Chicken Shajahani Biryani as their most popular dish, consuming over 23 tonnes between April and September. Over 4.5 tonnes of coffee beans/bags were used to create over 450,000 cups of coffee to keep passengers active before their flight. Hungry morning travellers took on 16 tonnes of scrambled eggs as their favourite breakfast dish. Over 420,000 assorted sandwiches were also consumed, along with over 210,000 cans of soft drinks.

marhaba: world-class airport hospitality services from Dubai to the world

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International airport. The popularity of Meet & Greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

In recent years marhaba has significantly expanded its network to provide world-class hospitality and deliver a safe and memorable airport experience for more travellers globally. It currently operates 18 airport lounges in seven countries, including the UAE, Australia, Switzerland, Pakistan, Singapore, Tanzania (Zanzibar) and the Philippines, offering guests a consistent brand and service experience at each airport. In the UAE, Australia, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Tanzania and the Philippines, passengers can further enhance their journey by booking marhaba’s signature Meet & Greet services.

Travellers can relax and refresh before boarding their flight at marhaba lounges by presenting eligible credit cards or other lounge access programs, or with purchase upon entry. In addition to marhaba’s products, customers can also book access to over 400 lounges and Meet & Greet services provided by the brand’s global partners on www.marhabaservices.com.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers. A trusted partner or over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services in more than 30 countries across six continents.

*The financial year 2023-24 started on 1 April 2023 and will end on 31 March 2024.

Starting from May, arriving, departing and transiting passengers can take advantage of marhaba’s signature Meet & Greet services at the airport’s new Terminal 2 building. marhaba’s dedicated agents will provide a warm welcome to customers and fast track them through the airport formalities, right up until the arrival area or departure gate.

Clark passengers can soon further enhance their journey by visiting marhaba’s newest airport lounges. The two facilities, which are scheduled to open in November 2023, will feature comfortable seating for up to 160 guests, and offer Wi-Fi and all-day dining with an international cuisine. marhaba’s Meet & Greet Gold customers will benefit from free lounge access.

By 2024, marhaba will offer meet & greet services and operate four lounges at two airports in The Philippines with a team of 80 local hospitality professionals.

Margaret Yu, CEO of dnata The Philippines, said: “We are proud to announce further expansion of our airport hospitality business in the Philippines. Taking advantage of dnata’s extensive experience in air and catering services, we pride ourselves in offering world-class quality for our customers across our global network. Our Meet & Greet and Lounge services have been designed to fully meet the needs of passengers of all travel classes, contributing to an excellent airport experience at every stage of the journey.”

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International airport. The popularity of meet & greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

In recent years marhaba has significantly expanded its network to provide world-class hospitality and deliver a safe and memorable airport experience for more travellers globally. It currently operates 18 airport lounges in seven countries, including the UAE, Australia, Switzerland, Pakistan, Singapore, Tanzania (Zanzibar) and the Philippines, offering guests a consistent brand and service experience at each airport. In the UAE, Australia, Switzerland and the Philippines, passengers can further enhance their journey by booking marhaba’s signature Meet & Greet services.

Travellers can relax and refresh before boarding their flight at marhaba lounges by presenting eligible credit cards or other lounge access programs, or with purchase upon entry. In addition to marhaba’s products, customers can also book access to over 400 lounges and Meet & Greet services provided by the brand’s global partners on www.marhabaservices.com.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers. A trusted partner or over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services in 38 countries.

Located within the Departures Hall of Terminal 3, the new marhaba lounge features comfortable seating for over 70 guests. It offers international and local cuisine catering to a range of dietary and ethnic requirements, along with a wide selection of hot and cold beverages. Guests can relax, watch live TV or catch up with work in designated zones, while enjoying complimentary, high-speed Wi-Fi. The comfort of guests is ensured by a team of over 25 local hospitality professionals.

Both arriving and departing passengers can take advantage of marhaba’s Meet & Greet Services to further improve their airport journey. marhaba’s dedicated agents provide a warm welcome to customers and fast track them through the airport formalities, right up until the arrival area or the departure gate.

Including Tanzania, marhaba now offers its airport hospitality services in seven countries across four continents.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “We are delighted to add Zanzibar to marhaba’s global network, bringing our renowned airport hospitality services to Africa.

“Zanzibar is an area of immense beauty, and its vision to grow its tourism industry will lead to a greater number of visitors passing through its new airport terminal. We look forward to contributing to this growth by delivering world-class services at every stage of the passenger journey. Our dedicated team will ensure a safe and memorable airport experience for travellers.”

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International airport (DXB). The popularity of Meet & Greet Services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub. marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options, designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

In recent years, marhaba has significantly expanded its network to provide world-class hospitality and deliver a safe and memorable airport experience for more travellers globally. It currently operates 15 airport lounges in seven countries, including Tanzania (Zanzibar), UAE, Australia, Switzerland, Pakistan, Singapore and the Philippines, offering guests a consistent brand and service experience at each airport. In Tanzania (Zanzibar), UAE,  Australia  and Switzerland, passengers can further enhance their journey by booking marhaba’s signature Meet & Greet services.

Travellers can relax and refresh before boarding their flight at marhaba lounges by presenting eligible credit cards or other lounge access programs, or with purchase upon entry.  In addition to marhaba’s products, customers can also book access to over 400 lounges and Meet & Greet services provided by the brand’s global partners on www.marhabaservices.com.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services in 38 countries.

Most recently, marhaba has re-opened a newly-refurbished lounge at Dubai International’s (DXB) Terminal 3. Located at Concourse ‘C’, the newest marhaba lounge features contemporary Arabic influences, enhanced buffet area and a unique bar concept. It offers comfortable seating for 140 guests across multiple, separate areas and plenty of charging points as part of a revamped experience for travellers.  

Including its upgraded facility, marhaba now operates five lounges at DXB, each offering superfast Wi-Fi and international cuisine catering to a wide range of dietary and ethnic requirements. Several lounges also feature a quiet zone for relaxation, shower facilities and dedicated kids areas.

After a busy period for travel to and from Dubai, marhaba recorded a 140% increase in visitor numbers between June – September 2022 at its lounges compared to the same period in 2021. It also witnessed a significant growth in demand for its signature Meet & Greet services, including its innovative Home Check-in services, that ensure a swift, smooth and safe experience for passengers and their families throughout their journey.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, commented: “marhaba’s airport services have been soaring in popularity, with more people travelling and more passengers seeking to complement their journey with access to our comfortable and convenient lounges, and our range of travel add-ons.

“From Meet & Greet to chauffeur drive services and beyond, marhaba is with travellers every step of the way at DXB and around the world. As ever, passenger comfort and travel assurance remain at the heart of the experience. Our teams look forward to welcoming and delivering impeccable airport hospitality services for business and leisure travellers this winter.”

In recent years marhaba has significantly expanded its network to provide world-class hospitality and deliver a safe and memorable airport experience for more travellers globally. It currently operates 15 airport lounges in seven countries, including the UAE, Australia, Switzerland, Pakistan, Singapore, Tanzania (Zanzibar) and the Philippines, offering guests a consistent brand and service experience at each airport. In the UAE, Australia and Switzerland, passengers can further enhance their journey by booking marhaba’s signature Meet & Greet services.

Travellers can relax and refresh before boarding their flight at marhaba lounges by presenting eligible credit cards or other lounge access programs, or with purchase upon entry.  In addition to marhaba’s products, customers can also book access to over 400 lounges and Meet & Greet services provided by the brand’s global partners on www.marhabaservices.com.

“At dnata we are proud to support local community partners and our work with Al Jalila Hospital offers travellers the opportunity to purchase something unique this summer, in support of an important cause.”

Dr Mohamed Al Awadhi, Chief Operating Officer, Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, added: “Al Jalila Children’s is an inspiring, child-friendly world. We strive to create a stress-free environment where our young patients can participate in a range of activities regardless of their condition. We would like to thank dnata for providing our young patients a platform to express their artistic abilities and create an exclusive merchandise for marhaba which will be seen by people from all over the world.” 

Passengers accessing marhaba lounges in Singapore, Manila, Melbourne, Karachi, Geneva and Zürich can also expect a host of additional summer products, all locally-tailored, including new menu items, and unmissable giveaways, throughout a highly-anticipated season for international travel.

In July marhaba will also launch a summer competition. Its global lounge customers will be provided with materials to design a postcard based on their ‘dream’ summer holiday destination. Completed designs will be displayed within local lounges as travel inspiration, and will also admit a passenger one entry to a travel-themed prize draw, including holidays in Dubai and Switzerland inclusive of five-star hotel stays, flights, and marhaba services.

For more information on marhaba or to book its range of airport services this summer and beyond, please access www.marhabaservices.com.

To find out more on marhaba’s partnership with Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, with behind-the-scene footage of the creation of the exclusive new product range by its children, follow @marhabaservices on social media, including on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

To discover Al Jalila Children's Specialty Hospital, the first dedicated children's hospital in the UAE, please contact: https://aljalilachildrens.ae/.  

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, catering, and travel services in 37 countries.

The first project under the agreement will see the development of the new marhaba Plaza Premium Lounge at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan.

With the lounge development already in progress, the new marhaba Plaza Premium Lounge at Queen Alia International Airport is expected to open in July 2022. The lounge will have a capacity of 140 guests and is inspired by the beautiful landscape of Amman, with subtle inclusion of the local culture and heritage in its design.

Steve Allen, Chief Executive Officer of dnata Group, said: “We are thrilled to join forces with PPG to bring our globally renowned airport hospitality services to more travellers across the world. Our joint commitment to quality and service excellence will ensure first-rate customer experience for travellers throughout their journey. We look forward to opening the first, best-in-class marhaba Plaza Premium lounge in Amman and further enhancing our joint offering in the coming years.”

Mr. Bora Isbulan, Deputy CEO of Plaza Premium Group said, “This is truly an exciting opportunity for PPG. Our global agreement with marhaba is a testament to our shared commitment to providing the best-in-class airport hospitality for travellers to enjoy. We expect to yield more opportunities in the future through this collaboration. Meanwhile, we are also excited to announce our first venture through the PPG and marhaba’s global agreement, the launch of the new marhaba Plaza Premium Lounge. Travellers will be able to experience the new lounge later this year.”

Queen Alia International Airport is the main and largest airport in Jordan. The airport has won several awards, including Best Airport by Size and Region: Middle East in 2020 by Airports Council International (ACI) World.

About marhaba

Launched at Dubai International airport in 1991, marhaba is a premium Meet & Greet and Airport Lounge Service that aims to make the passenger journey as easy and comfortable as possible, by providing invaluable airport services to passengers ranging from tourists and families, to VIPs and corporate customers. marhaba offers Meet & Greet Services at eight airports globally, and operates or manages 17 departure airport lounges in six countries, the UAE, Singapore, Switzerland, Pakistan, Australia and Philippines.

marhaba is part of dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider. dnata offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents.

For more information, visit: https://www.marhabaservices.com/ 

About Plaza Premium Group

With a mission to Make Travel Better, Plaza Premium Group is the pioneer and industry leader in innovating global airport hospitality services and facilities in over 250 locations of more than 70 international airports across the world. Established in 1998 and headquartered in Hong Kong, the group comprises four core business segments – airport lounges Plaza Premium First and Plaza Premium Lounge; airport terminal hotels Aerotel; airport meet & greet services ALLWAYS and a range of Airport Dining concepts. The Group has also developed Smart Traveller, a mobile-app based global airport membership programme that is designed for air travellers, offering uniquely-curated perks, benefits and rewards experience through points earning and redemption. In addition to its own brands, Plaza Premium Group provides airport hospitality solutions to leading airlines, alliances and corporates around the world, including but not limited to Cathay Pacific Airways, Singapore Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Air France, Star Alliance, SkyTeam, American Express, Capital One and many more.

The Group has won more than 60 accolades in the last five years, including “World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge” for four consecutive years from 2016 to 2021 at the Skytrax World Airline Awards, the global benchmark of aviation excellence, and “Best Airport Lounge Operator” for 2018 & 2019 by TTG Asia magazine. In 2020, the Group has successfully been awarded ISO 9001:2015 for Hong Kong Headquarters, proving the quality management in providing airport lounge services. In addition, the group’s Founder and CEO Mr. Song Hoi-see was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of The Year and Master Entrepreneur of The Year 2018 Malaysia. Plaza Premium Group currently employs over 5,000 staff and serves more than 20 million global passengers annually. By continuously innovating and striving to surpass travellers’ expectations of airport experiences, the group is growing exponentially across major international airports globally.

To learn more: www.plazapremiumgroup.com

Connect with us: Linkedin @plazapremiumgroup, Twitter @PPG_worldleader and WeChat @PlazaPremiumGroup

Media Contacts:

Gabor Vasarhelyi, Public Relations, marhaba (dnata)
T: +971 4708 2144  E: gabor.vasarhelyi@dnata.com

Eva Lui, Senior Manager, PR & Corporate Communications, Plaza Premium Group
T: +852 3960 1456 E: eva.lui@plaza-network.com

Located in the Airside Centre, the new marhaba lounge features comfortable seating for over 50 guests. It offers complimentary Wi-Fi, a large selection of virtual newspapers and magazines and all-day dining with a variety of hot and cold food catering to a range of dietary and ethnic requirements, along with a wide selection of beverages. The comfort of guests is ensured by a diverse team of customer-oriented staff, who speak more than 10 languages.

The modern, contemporary design of the marhaba lounge was inspired by Arabian hospitality but also features local elements, including a wooden ‘Rigi’ cow, courtesy of Mount Rigi, Europe’s first mountain railway which recently celebrated its 150^th anniversary. 

marhaba has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of customers and agents. The lounge offers touchless payment options and frequently undergoes increased cleaning and sanitisation with specific focus on high-touch surfaces. marhaba lounge staff have all been thoroughly trained on local health and safety protocols.

Passengers can make online bookings at marhabaservices.com or simply walk in and pay for access at a rate of CHF 35 on the spot. The lounge is also available for members of several airport lounge programmes and passengers of marhaba’s partner airlines.

The opening of marhaba’s Zürich facility follows the inauguration of its airport lounge, previously known as the dnata Lounge, at Geneva Airport’s (GVA) Main Terminal. In Geneva, marhaba also provides meet & greet services, ensuring a swift, smooth and safe passage through the airport for customers and their family. marhaba’s Geneva services can also be booked on marhabaservices.com.

Steve Allen, dnata’s Executive Vice President, said: ”We are excited to launch marhaba’s globally renowned airport hospitality services at another dnata hub. Like all other marhaba lounges globally, the Zürich facility was also designed with careful attention to detail, ensuring maximum comfort and excellent quality services for passengers. Our dedicated team looks forward to welcoming and delivering world-class services for all travellers including the customers of our airline and tour operator partners.”

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the United Arab Emirates to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International Airport. The popularity of meet & greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

marhaba started to expand its global footprint in 2017 by opening new airport lounges in Karachi (Pakistan) and Melbourne (Australia). Since then, it has opened three additional facilities in Geneva (Switzerland), Singapore and Manila (The Philippines) and substantially increased the capacity of its airport lounges in Dubai. Including the new Zürich lounge, marhaba operates airport lounges in six countries providing service excellence to passengers with a team of over 800 customer-oriented employees.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world's largest air services providers. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services at over 120 airports, including Zürich Airport and Geneva Airport in Switzerland.

Starting from this December, both arriving and departing passengers can take advantage of marhaba’s services at Sydney Airport (SYD), Melbourne Airport (MEL), Adelaide Airport (ADL) and Brisbane Airport (BNE). marhaba’s dedicated agents, who have all been thoroughly trained on health and safety protocols, will welcome customers and escort them through the airport formalities right up until the arrival area or the departure gate. Where possible, marhaba’s agents will also provide hand baggage trolleys or, for an additional fee, arrange porter service.

In Melbourne, customers can further enhance their experience by booking the ‘Gold’ package and relax and recharge in marhaba’s popular lounge before their flights at a special bundled rate. Located at the International Terminal (T2), the spacious lounge features comfortable seating for 200 guests, a quiet zone for relaxation, and shower facilities. It offers superfast Wi-Fi and all-day dining with premium Hudson’s coffee and international cuisine catering to a wide range of dietary and ethnic requirements.

Customers can book marhaba’s services on marhabaservices.com or by calling 800 627 4222. Meet & Greet Service fees start from AUD 250 while lounge access can be purchased from AUD 64.

Steve Allen, dnata’s Executive Vice President, said: “Over the past three decades marhaba has earned the trust and loyalty of travellers by consistently delivering safe and reliable airport hospitality services in Dubai and beyond.

“Having been successfully operating a popular lounge in Melbourne for over four years, we’re now delighted to offer Australian travellers a broader range of services and provide complete peace of mind to them throughout their journey at four airports across the country. Our dedicated agents are looking forward to helping travellers safely reconnect with their family and business partners in Australia.”

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International airport. The popularity of Meet & Greet Services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub. marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options, designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

marhaba started to expand its global footprint in 2017 by opening new airport lounges in Melbourne and Karachi. Since then, it has opened four additional facilities in Singapore, Manila, Geneva and Zurich and substantially increased the capacity of its airport lounges in Dubai. marhaba now offers airport hospitality services in six countries providing service excellence to passengers with a team of over 400 customer-oriented employees.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world's largest air services providers. In Australia, dnata offers high quality, safe and reliable ground handling, cargo, flight catering and cabin cleaning services at ten airports.

Photos were taken before 2020. 

Kicking-off a range of festive-themed activations now on offer with marhaba at Dubai International (DXB) and Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates, Lapland’s most famous resident, Santa Claus, arrived at DXB earlier this week to the thrill of passengers.

Invited as part of a December residency at Ski Dubai, which has been transformed into a ‘Winter Wonderland’ complete with ‘Santa’s Village’, the team worked with marhaba to ensure a stylish welcome for the man in red to Dubai. He was welcomed with a signature marhaba ‘Meet & Greet’ service on arrival, followed by a lounge visit, airport fast-track, and chauffeur drive into the city.

Leaving a touch of Lapland’s festive magic at DXB, marhaba’s lounge at Terminal 3, Concourse B now features its own ‘Alpine Lodge’, a picture-perfect snow globe, bespoke winter-themed menu, and a host of other festive features ready to welcome airport passengers this December.

Steve Allen, dnata’s Executive Vice President, said: “At marhaba, now more than ever, we embrace our core value of offering passengers the warmest welcome and smoothest experience as they arrive in or depart from Dubai. We hope to bring some added festive cheer this year, as travellers look forward to long-awaited reunions with friends and family. In celebration of the holiday season, we are extending the festivities all the way from DXB to Ski Dubai, which is the only place to experience a white Christmas in the desert.”

Ski Dubai’s ‘Winter Wonderland’ packages, which feature the chance to visit Santa’s Village, Santa’s Grotto, a Snow Cinema, and so much more, will be available until 25^th December 2021. The festive-themed marhaba lounge at DXB’s Terminal 3, Concourse B will be activated until 5^th January 2021.

For more information on marhaba or to book its range of airport services this festive period, please access www.marhabaservices.com. To explore more of Ski Dubai’s ‘Winter Wonderland’ or to book a limited-time festive package for 2021, please access www.skidxb.com.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, catering, and travel services in 36 countries.

Two of the Dubai-based marhaba lounges have now been re-designed to include a dedicated Majlis, unique experiences with photography and calligraphy in partnership with local artists, and to showcase a bespoke, locally-inspired menu.

Dubai passengers will have the chance to interact with marhaba’s range of UAE-themed activations within its Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, Concourse B lounges, from now until 4^th December 2021.

Steve Allen, dnata’s Executive Vice President, said: “As marhaba celebrates 30 years of supporting millions of travellers in 2021, we are proud to be celebrating in tandem the 50^th anniversary of the UAE – the country in which the brand was founded and we call our home.

“Over the past 30 years marhaba has grown with the UAE as part of its journey to become one of the world’s leading transport hubs. Today, it offers best-in-class Lounge and Meet & Greet Services in six countries, bringing Arabian hospitality from Dubai to the world.

“This unique lounge activation our marhaba team is running in Dubai as part of UAE National Day celebrations will allow a new generation of travellers to experience the culture and traditions of the UAE in new and special ways.”

Passengers visiting marhaba lounges at DXB will have the chance to experience a traditional Majlis as a meeting point as part of their journey, sample local UAE delicacies as part of a bespoke menu, and have their name written in Arabic by a limited-time resident calligraphy artist.

marhaba is also partnering with a local photographer to display a range of impressive UAE-themed images throughout the lounges. Dubai-based ‘Visuals by Preet’ is known for producing vibrant, ‘dreamlike’ visuals of the country’s most beautiful locations with a focus on emphasising “a lesser-seen, quirkier interpretation of Dubai’s heritage”.

Discover marhaba’s new UAE-themed lounge designs across its locations in Dubai International’s Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, Concourse B, from 28^th November to 4^th December 2021.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, catering and travel services in 36 countries.

The popularity of marhaba’s airport hospitality services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai’s growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to ease and fast-track passengers’ journey. marhaba’s popular services now include baggage transfer, flowers on arrival and chauffeur driven cars.

In addition to enhancing its product offering, marhaba expanded its global footprint and today operates 14 airport lounges across the UAE, Australia, Singapore, Switzerland, Pakistan and The Philippines.

This month marhaba welcomes thousands of visitors to Dubai from the world in one of the busiest periods for international travel to the UAE. In preparation for international visitors for Expo 2020 Dubai and the UAE’s 50^th Jubilee, marhaba revealed a new design and experience at its original flagship lounge in Dubai International's (DXB) Terminal 3, earlier this year.

To mark its 30^th anniversary, marhaba is announcing 30% off* marhaba lounge services in Dubai, until 30^th November 2021.

Steve Allen, Executive Vice President of dnata, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the 30th anniversary of marhaba, a globally renowned member of the dnata family. Across our portfolio of aviation, travel and hospitality businesses, we pride ourselves in delivering innovative services that ensure an excellent experience for customers at every stage of their journey. We continue to enhance our offering to best meet the needs of travellers and help them safely reconnect with their families, friends and business partners."

Shahab Al Awadhi, Head of marhaba Global, said: “This is an exciting time for marhaba as we take a nostalgic view at our beginnings here in Dubai, as a team of 20. Three decades later, more than 400 marhaba employees serve millions of airport customers annually. Globally, we now offer 14 lounges in six countries, whilst our signature ‘Meet & Greet’ service – which was our sole product in Dubai in 1991 – is now also available in Switzerland and will be launched in Australia, reflecting our ambition to extend Arabian hospitality from Dubai to the world.

“We’ve witnessed the evolution of airport travel experiences over the decades, and in the last year particularly there’s been a focus on enhanced hygiene and passenger safety protocols. The overall trend indicates that more travellers are looking to ease and enrich their time at the airport through our extensive range of services, which we will continue to grow and evolve to meet their needs. In Dubai this has included bespoke adjustments to make sure that international visitors arriving in the UAE for Expo 2020 Dubai are provided with extra levels of comfort and assurance.”

In a recent 2021 survey marhaba conducted with its local customers, 56% of respondents indicated booking marhaba services on behalf of their family, friends, or others, compared to 44% booking for themselves, to ensure their important guests and loved ones the best airport experience possible.

Fast-track immigration came out as the service inclusion holding the most importance to Dubai customers at 31%, followed by a welcome on arrival, and escort through the airport at 24% and 21%, respectively.

On top of a refresh of the design of its signature lounges in Dubai, marhaba recently signed a partnership with SaniService to ensure to the highest levels of cleanliness. marhaba’s contract to manage the SkyTeam Exclusive Lounge in Dubai International (DXB), Terminal 1 has also been extended for a further five years. One of only five SkyTeam lounges in the world, its luxury service has now reopened to First, Business Class and Elite Plus passengers.

For more information on marhaba airport services and to avail the limited-time 30% off Dubai lounge services, see www.marhabaservices.com.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, catering and travel services in 35 countries.

*Passengers looking to experience the newly-renovated marhaba lounge at Dubai International's (DXB) Terminal 3 can avail a limited-time 30% discount of its services until the end of November 2021, by using promo code MARHABA30 when pre-booking Lounge Services on the marhaba website, to mark the passenger service provider’s 30^th anniversary.

Travellers can expect an entirely new marhaba offering at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3 at the launch of the newly-designed lounge experience, set to be rolled out from Dubai to marhaba airport lounges across the world. Now complete and ready to welcome passengers travelling out of Dubai, this new lounge serves as a proof of concept for the new ‘marhaba global lounge experience’, including a variety of features set to appear across its portfolio of international lounges.

A highly-anticipated, bespoke feature for the Dubai market will be offered through the introduction of a second, enhanced PDL Salon & Café for the city – offering a unique salon experience for travellers.

Shahab Al Awadhi, Head of marhaba Global, commented: “After opening our first airport lounge in Dubai in 2000 at Dubai International Airport, marhaba has grown from strength to strength, now managing 12 airport lounges at eight airports in six countries.

“The refurbishment of one of our original marhaba lounges in Dubai represents the marhaba of the future, with a customer experience and hospitality focused approach to its design and layout. Its six, distinct new spaces have been designed to suit the needs of every type of traveller, offering something for everyone.”

The new marhaba airport lounge experience at Dubai International Airport, Terminal 3, Concourse B follows the new ‘marhaba global lounge experience ’, which offers at its core six, distinct new areas to feature in marhaba lounges, worldwide. The new areas – Lounge, Studio, Dining, Play, Relax and Flex – are designed to meet the needs and wants of travellers across the world, with the aim to create memorable travel experiences. An overview of the areas and anticipated new features, include:

1. Lounge
Visually this area is in red, and provides guests with the opportunity to pause and relax after a warm welcome at reception, with adjustable furniture, an artificial fireplace as a focal point, and offering plenty of charging points. An area to sit back, relax, read a book, or work in a more casual way.

2. Studio
Visually this area is in green, and offers the perfect spot to catch up on work and ensure travel time is productive. The styling resembles a café and provides plenty of light, charging points, cosy capsules where guests can insulate themselves while taking a call, or to have some solo thinking time.

3. Dining
An important part of marhaba’s Arabian hospitality, the dining zone is based at the heart of the new lounge design and offers guests nourishment and refreshment, day or night. There are a variety of table options available, ranging from large dining tables and benches to smaller and more intimate booths, ideal for families.

4. Play 
Providing a warm welcome for families, the ‘Play’ zone is located next to ‘Dining’ so that parents can enjoy their meal while still being able to watch their kids play.

5. Relax
A tranquil area for travellers to relax, the ‘Relax’ zone is a quiet place with comfortable recliners where sleeping is easy.

6. Flex
Whilst the new ‘marhaba global lounge experience will provide consistency across lounges worldwide, ‘Flex’ is an area which can be repurposed for the particular needs and wants of travellers in each local area, anything from a yoga studio to a salon. In Dubai, expect a brand-new salon from PDL, a Dubai-based brand renowned for its services, experience and delicious coffee.

The new ‘Flex’ zone of the marhaba lounge at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3 will be based on the original PDL Coffee Co & Barbershop, a home-grown brand located at the heart of the Al Safa area. The first café and spa under one roof to open in Dubai – PDL is expanding its existing offering at the marhaba lounge to include services for both male and female travellers. Staying true to its original approach, customers can expect a unique salon experience, a range of services and the chance to taste its popular coffee.

Essa Al Marzoogi, CEO of the Gainsborough Group, commented: “We’ve tried our best to replicate the original PDL experience with in the airport environment, and guests will now be able to enjoy our male/female serviced salon whilst waiting for their next flight. Travellers have a choice between manicure/pedicure’s, shaves, haircuts, a blow-dry, even shoulder and head massages, and can book their preferred service in advance. I believe there is no other lounge at present providing salon services with beautiful views of the runway.

“The new marhaba lounge is fantastic, with its new design, layout, experiences and location offering travellers the perfect mix. We look forward to providing great services and hope to enhance the travel experience for people flying out of Dubai International Airport.”

After opening its first lounge outside of Dubai in 2005 in Zurich, marhaba has taken a focus on expanding its global reach to better serve its international customer base.

Al Awadhi concluded: “Dubai is an established global hub for travel and we are proud to be a part of its growth story, and of the expansion of its home-grown travel services internationally. As the base and foundation of marhaba airport services, including our local Meet & Greet and global lounge offerings, we look forward to revealing our brand-new lounge design at Dubai International Airport with Arabian hospitality and innovation in focus, and taking this internationally, as we have done successfully throughout the course of marhaba’s history.

“We revealed a first look at the ‘marhaba global lounge playbook’ in 2019 with a new, consistent look and feel along with outstanding service to be provided across all of our destinations, and we are delighted that our customers can now experience this first-hand where the marhaba story began, in Dubai, and in time, worldwide.”

To experience the new marhaba lounge, visit Dubai International Airport Terminal 3, Concourse B. For more information on marhaba airport services including its lounges and Meet & Greet services, see www.marhabaservices.com.

The partnership will see the two companies promote and sell each other’s quality services, enabling their customers to conveniently book and enjoy world-class airport hospitality and maximum safety across an extended network of global hubs, including Tel Aviv and Dubai. flydubai, EL AL Israel Airlines and Arkia Israeli Airlines already commenced flights between the two cities, while Etihad Airways announced plans to launch services in March.

Laufer Aviation’s renowned meet & assist services in Tel Aviv can already be booked on marhabaservices.com along with marhaba’s entire global offering. Likewise, Laufer Aviation has started selling a range of marhaba’s Meet & Greet and Lounge Services to customers.

Both marhaba and Laufer Aviation have implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of passengers amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Each meet & greet agent has been thoroughly trained on health and safety protocols, and wears a mask and abides by social distancing guidelines while assisting passengers at the airports. marhaba’s lounges offer touchless payment options and frequently undergo increased cleaning and sanitisation with specific focus on high-touch surfaces. Senior travellers and their family member can enjoy the services in designated zones.

Shahab Al Awadhi, Head of marhaba Global, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Laufer Aviation to offer our customers easy access to reliable and safe airport hospitality services in Tel Aviv, while promoting our extensive global offering to Israeli travellers. We expect both companies’ quality services to become increasingly popular as airlines commence direct flights between our Dubai base and Tel Aviv. We stay focused on delivering world-class safety and service excellence for all customers at every stage of their journey.”

Elad Levy, Acting CEO Laufer Aviation GHI LTD, said: “We are excited to start this partnership with marhaba and to offer our customers a real value in airport hospitality services in Dubai and all over the world. We are sure that both companies will provide unique services and will grow together as the route between Dubai and Tel Aviv will become more popular now that the peace agreement between the countries has been signed. We are happy to be part of this historic moment and to provide all of our customers our top-quality service both in Tel Aviv and in Dubai.”

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International Airport. The popularity of meet & greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

marhaba started to expand its global footprint in 2017 by opening new airport lounges in Karachi (Pakistan) and Melbourne (Australia). Since then, it has opened two additional facilities in Singapore and Manila (The Philippines) and substantially increased the capacity of its airport lounges in Dubai. marhaba now operates airport lounges in six countries providing service excellence to passengers with a team of over 800 customer-oriented employees.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world's largest air services providers. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services at 126 airports in 19 countries.

About marhaba

Launched at Dubai International airport in 1991, marhaba is a premium Meet & Greet and Airport Lounge Service that aims to make the passenger journey as easy and comfortable as possible, by providing invaluable airport services to passengers ranging from tourists and families, to VIPs and corporate customers. marhaba offers Meet & Greet Services at two airports in the UAE, and operates departure airport lounges in six countries, the UAE, Singapore, Switzerland, Pakistan, the Philippines and Australia.

About Laufer Aviation GHI

Laufer Aviation VIP services division was established in 1985 and aimed to provide the finest airport experience in Israel and around the world to a vast range of segments, from families and business travellers, to corporates and formal delegations of the Israeli foreign affairs.

Laufer offers VIP Meet & Greet services at Ben Gurion International Airport and in all Israelis airports. Laufer also operate VIP services at airports around the world in collaborate with partners such as marhaba.

The partnership will initially cover major airports in strategic markets across Asia, the Middle East and Europe. The two companies are committed to further expanding their cooperation over the coming years with plans to make joint investments in services and facilities.

Shahab Al Awadhi, Head of marhaba Global, said: “We are thrilled to join forces with Plaza Premium Group to offer travellers more value and a broader range of options to improve their travel experience at a time when quality and safe hospitality services play an increasingly important role at airports globally.

“marhaba and Plaza Premium share the same values and passion for service excellence and safety. We are both committed to delivering world-class services to help travellers make the most out of their airport journey. This strategic partnership will enable us to significantly enhance our offering and expand our footprint, while leveraging experience and synergies. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration across our global network.”

Bora Isbulan, Chief Commercial Officer, Plaza Premium Group said, “This strategic alliance brings together the best of two industry leaders in airport hospitality in terms of expertise, talents and service network. While the travel industry is currently evolving rapidly, our collaboration is especially crucial now when the industry must unite to achieve operational efficiency, consolidation of resources, optimisation of distribution and ultimately, offering a better experience for global travellers.”

marhaba and Plaza Premium Group are renowned for providing excellent airport experience including airport lounges – namely marhaba and Plaza Premium Lounge - and meet and assist services – namely marhaba and ALLWAYS - to all travellers. Since the pandemic started, both brands have implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of customers and staff.

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International Airport. The popularity of meet & greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

marhaba started to expand its global footprint in 2017 by opening new airport lounges in Karachi (Pakistan) and Melbourne (Australia). Since then, it has opened two additional facilities in Singapore and Manila (The Philippines) and substantially increased the capacity of its airport lounges in Dubai. marhaba now operates airport lounges in six countries providing service excellence to passengers with a team of over 800 customer-oriented employees.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world's largest air services providers. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services at 126 airports in 19 countries.

Plaza Premium Group is the world’s leading airport hospitality solution provider offering airport lounges, airport terminal hotels, airport dining as well as meet and assist services in over 170 locations across 46 airports globally. With a mission to “Make Travel Better”, Plaza Premium Group’s flagship brand Plaza Premium Lounge operates the largest independent lounge network and has been awarded “World’s Best Independent Lounge” for four consecutive years at Skytrax World Airline Awards, which is referred as the “Oscars of the aviation industry”.

About marhaba

Launched at Dubai International airport in 1991, marhaba is a premium Meet & Greet and Airport Lounge Service that aims to make the passenger journey as easy and comfortable as possible, by providing invaluable airport services to passengers ranging from tourists and families, to VIPs and corporate customers. marhaba offers Meet & Greet Services at two airports in the UAE, and operates or manages 14 departure airport lounges in six countries, the UAE, Singapore, Switzerland, Pakistan, Australia and Philippines. For more information visit marhabaservices.com 

About Plaza Premium Group

With a mission to Make Travel Better, Plaza Premium Group is the pioneer and industry leader in innovating global airport hospitality services and facilities in over 180 locations of 49 international airports across the world. Established in 1998 and headquartered in Hong Kong, the group comprises four core business segments – airport lounges Plaza Premium First and Plaza Premium Lounge; airport terminal hotels Aerotel and Refreshhh by Aerotel; airport meet & greet services ALLWAYS and a range of Airport Dining concepts. The Group has also developed Smart Traveller, a mobile-app based global airport membership programme that is designed for air travellers, offering uniquely-curated perks, benefits and rewards experience through points earning and redemption. In addition to its own brands, Plaza Premium Group provides airport hospitality solutions to leading airlines, alliances and corporates around the world, including but not limited to Cathay Pacific Airways, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, China Southern Airlines, Star Alliance, SkyTeam, American Express and many more.

The Group has won more than 60 accolades in the last five years, including “World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge” for four consecutive years from 2016 to 2019 at the Skytrax World Airline Awards, the global benchmark of aviation excellence, and “Best Airport Lounge Operator” for 2018 & 2019 by TTG Asia magazine. In 2020, the Group has successfully been awarded ISO 9001:2015 for Hong Kong Headquarters, proving the quality management in providing airport lounge services. In addition, the group’s Founder and CEO Mr. Song Hoi-see was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of The Year and Master Entrepreneur of The Year 2018 Malaysia.

Plaza Premium Group currently employs over 5,000 staff and serves more than 20 million global passengers annually. By continuously innovating and striving to surpass travellers’ expectations of airport experiences, the group is growing exponentially across major international airports globally.

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​​​​​Manila, 7 October 2020 – marhaba, one of the world’s leading airport hospitality brands, continues to expand its network to provide world-class hospitality and ensure a safe and smooth travel experience for more passengers globally. In addition to its popular facilities in Dubai, Melbourne, Karachi and Singapore, marhaba opened another airport lounge in Manila in the Philippines and now offers excellent value services to passengers of all airlines and travel classes at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), too.

Located at Terminal 1, the newest marhaba lounge features comfortable seating for over 85 guests, a prayer room, a private meeting room and shower facilities. It is open 24 hours a day and offers Wi-Fi and all-day dining with an international cuisine catering to a wide range of dietary and ethnic requirements. The comfort of guests is ensured by a diverse team of 30 customer-oriented staff, who speak five languages.

marhaba has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of customers and agents. The lounge offers touchless payment options and frequently undergoes increased cleaning and sanitisation with specific focus on high-touch surfaces. marhaba lounge staff have all been thoroughly trained on health and safety protocols, and wear a mask and abide by social distancing guidelines while serving passengers.

Passengers can make online bookings at marhabaservices.com or simply walk in and pay for access on the spot. The lounge is also available for members of several airport lounge programmes.

Shahab Al Awadhi, Head of marhaba Global, said: "We are excited to add Manila to the global marhaba network. Taking advantage of our extensive experience in hospitality, airport and catering services, we pride ourselves in offering a premium lounge product that has been designed to fully meet the needs of passengers of all travel classes. In addition, we have taken a number of initiatives to maximise safety and provide passengers with complete peace of mind in our brand new lounge.

“We will work hard to earn the trust and loyalty of Manila passengers by delivering world-class services, every day.”

marhaba, which means 'welcome' in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International Airport. The popularity of meet & greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai's growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

marhaba started to expand its global footprint in 2017 by opening new airport lounges in Karachi (Pakistan) and Melbourne (Australia). Since then, it has opened an additional facility in Singapore and substantially increased the capacity of its airport lounges in Dubai. Including the new Manila lounge, marhaba will operate airport lounges in six countries providing service excellence to passengers with a team of over 800 customer-oriented employees.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world's largest air services providers. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services at 126 airports in 19 countries.

In addition to its popular Chauffeur, Airport Meet & Greet and Lounge Services, marhaba now also provides COVID-19 testing as part of its Premium Home Check-in Service, enabling customers to obtain a medical certificate within 24 to 48 hours of testing, at home or any location of their choice in Dubai.

Steve Allen, Divisional Senior Vice President, UAE Airport Operations & Travel, dnata, said: “We are delighted to add convenient and safe home COVID-19 testing to our marhaba offering. Our newest service helps passengers enjoy complete peace of mind and a seamless travel experience from their home to the boarding gate. Our trained safety ambassadors look forward to welcoming and delivering service excellence for all travellers at Dubai International.”

Customers booking the Premium Home Check-in Service are visited by a team of highly-trained medical professionals who perform a swab test on all passengers ahead of the check-in process. The samples are tested in a medical laboratory and the results are shared with customers digitally. All passengers testing negative for COVID-19 receive a medical certificate. The COVID-19 testing services are delivered by Mediclinic, a trusted global healthcare provider.

During the convenient home check-in process helpful agents check in travellers for their flights, print their boarding passes*, weigh and tag their baggage and ensure that they are delivered to the airport and loaded onto the aircraft. All baggage is treated with disinfectant to remove any germs and provide protection from microbes for up to 72 hours. Once customers arrive to the airport, a friendly agent is on-hand to fast-track them through airport formalities.

To offer travellers more options to boost their travel experience, marhaba has recently reopened two of its Airport Lounges at Dubai International’s (DXB) Terminal 3 (Concourse B) and Terminal 2. Open 24 hours, each marhaba lounge offers superfast Wi-Fi and all-day dining with international cuisine catering to a wide range of dietary and ethnic requirements. The comfort of guests is ensured by a diverse team of dedicated safety ambassadors, who have been thoroughly trained on health and safety protocols.

marhaba has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of customers and agents. All marhaba agents and lounge staff wear a mask, and abide by social distancing guidelines while assisting passengers. marhaba's chauffeurs also adhere to safety protocols, and the cars undergo strict disinfecting procedures after each trip. The lounges offer touchless payment options and frequently undergo increased cleaning and sanitisation with specific focus on high-touch surfaces. To further reduce touchpoints, the buffet has been replaced with individually pre-portioned dining options. Senior travellers and their family member can enjoy the services in designated zones.

marhaba's safe Premium Home Check-in Service can be booked on www.marhabaservices.com from AED 714 (inclusive of VAT). The testing price of AED 209 (inclusive of VAT) per person is directly payable to Mediclinic upon sample collection via cash or credit card.

*Subject to airline approval and acceptance. Should home check-in not be available for the selected flight, marhaba team will try to provide access to fast-track check-in desks at the airport where possible.

About marhaba

Launched at Dubai International airport in 1991, marhaba is a premium Meet & Greet and Airport Lounge Service that aims to make the passenger journey as easy and comfortable as possible, by providing invaluable airport services to passengers ranging from tourists and families, to VIPs and corporate customers. marhaba offers Meet & Greet Services at two airports in the UAE, and operates 12 departure airport lounges in five countries, the UAE, Singapore, Switzerland, Pakistan, and Australia.

Hosted by marhaba’s safety ambassadors, the lounges are open to passengers of all travel classes, inviting them to relax or catch up with work in a safe, peaceful environment. Customers can further upgrade their travel experience and enjoy complete peace of mind throughout their journey by booking marhaba’s Home Check-in and Meet & Greet services.

Steve Allen, Divisional Senior Vice President, UAE Airport Operations and Travel, dnata, said: “Following the recent announcement of our innovative Home Check-in services, we are delighted to deliver more great news for Dubai travellers. By opening our popular airport lounges at Dubai International we offer travellers more options to boost their travel experience and enjoy a safe and smooth journey.

“Our services help passengers minimize touchpoints and maximize safety while enjoying tailor-made, customer-oriented services from check-in to baggage delivery. Our trained safety ambassadors stay committed to providing service excellence to the residents and visitors of Dubai, every day.”

Open 24 hours, both of marhaba’s reopened lounges offer superfast Wi-Fi and all-day dining with international cuisine catering to a wide range of dietary and ethnic requirements. The comfort of guests is ensured by a diverse team of dedicated safety ambassadors, who have been thoroughly trained on health and safety protocols.

Besides its lounge services, marhaba also offers comprehensive Home Check-in, Meet & Greet and Chauffeur services to Dubai travellers. From a convenient home check-in process to fast-track clearance through arrivals or departures and helping with transfers and baggage, marhaba delivers a smooth and safe experience for travellers throughout their journey.

marhaba has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of customers and agents. The lounges offer touchless payment options and frequently undergo increased cleaning and sanitisation with specific focus on high-touch surfaces. To further reduce touchpoints, the buffet has been replaced with individually pre-portioned dining options. Senior travellers and their family member can enjoy the services in designated zones.

All marhaba agents and lounge staff wear a mask, and abide by social distancing guidelines while assisting passengers at the airport. marhaba’s chauffeurs also adhere to safety protocols, and the cars undergo strict disinfecting procedures after each trip. The number of passengers in each vehicle is limited to two in standard cars or three in SUVs. Immediate family members are exempt from these restrictions and are able to travel in cars together in groups larger than three people.

marhaba’s Dubai lounges are available for members of several airport lounge programs. Other travellers can also purchase lounge access by making an online booking at www.marhabaservices.com or simply walk in and pay for access on the spot. Entry fees start at AED 205.

marhaba’s Home Check-in, Meet & Greet and Chauffeur services can be booked also on www.marhabaservices.com. Service fees start at AED 110.

Contact
Gabor Vasarhelyi
Public Relations, marhaba
gabor.vasarhelyi@dnata.com 

marhaba’s Home Check-in Services are delivered by its sister company, DUBZ, a leading baggage technology and logistics company. During the convenient home check-in process the helpful DUBZ agents check in travellers for their flights, print their boarding passes, weigh and tag their baggage and ensure that they are delivered to the airport and loaded onto the aircraft. All baggage is treated with disinfectant to remove any germs and provide protection from microbes for up to 72 hours. At the airport, customers are met by marhaba agents who fast-track them through immigration.

Having recently relaunched its Meet & Greet and Chauffeur Services in Dubai, marhaba has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of customers and agents. Each marhaba agent wears gloves and a mask, and abides by social distancing guidelines while assisting passengers at the airport. marhaba’s chauffeurs also adhere to safety protocols, and the cars undergo strict disinfecting procedures after each trip. The number of passengers in each vehicle is limited to two in standard cars or three in SUVs. Immediate family members are exempt from these restrictions and are able to travel in cars together in groups larger than three people, as per current UAE regulations.

marhaba’s innovative home check-in, baggage disinfection, chauffeur and meet & greet services can be booked on www.marhabaservices.com from only AED 237.

Steve Allen, Divisional Senior Vice President, UAE Airport Operations and Travel, dnata said: “We are thrilled to expand our offering to ensure a safe and seamless travel experience for Dubai travellers. Taking advantage of our innovative solutions, customers can enjoy complete peace of mind throughout their journey, from a quick and easy home check-in process to the delivery of their disinfected baggage at their destination airport. We are confident that our new services will be popular among customers, whose safety and comfort are taken care of by our professionally trained marhaba agents at Dubai International. We will continue to enhance our services to deliver more value for travellers.”

Omar Abou Faraj, CEO and Co-Founder of DUBZ, said: “Travel is crucial to all of us, and that is why we have worked hard to add more value by providing long-lasting baggage disinfection as part of our home check-in service. Ultimately, we hope to give people peace of mind to enjoy worry-free holidays once again.”

About marhaba

Launched at Dubai International airport in 1991, marhaba is a premium Meet & Greet and Airport Lounge Service that aims to make the passenger journey as easy and comfortable as possible, by providing invaluable airport services to passengers ranging from tourists and families, to VIPs and corporate customers. marhaba offers Meet & Greet Services at two airports in the UAE, and operates 12 departure airport lounges in five countries, the UAE, Singapore, Switzerland, Pakistan, and Australia.

About DUBZ

DUBZ is a technology start-up founded in 2016 by three enterprising individuals. The company identified a niche in enhancing the experience of travellers by providing a convenient home and hotel baggage collection and delivery service that can be booked online 24 hours a day. Utilizing GPS tracking for its vehicles, CCTV screening at its facilities and smartphones for its drivers, DUBZ is able to ensure a secure and hassle-free service to its customers. In 2016, the company was selected as a winner of Intelak, the aviation and travel incubator programme co-founded by the Emirates Group, GE, and Dubai Tourism to nurture travel technology entrepreneurship in the UAE.

Media contact

Gabor Vasarhelyi
Public Relations, marhaba
gabor.vasarhelyi@dnata.com 
 

marhaba has also announced that it would refurbish and rebrand existing dnata lounges at the airports of Geneva, Zurich (Switzerland) and Singapore, bringing all facilities in the company’s network under the same brand in the next two years.

Today’s announcements underline marhaba’s commitment to ensuring a memorable airport journey for passengers across the world. Offering quality airport services for over 28 years, marhaba’s customer-oriented team delivers excellent travel experiences for nearly three million passengers annually.

Shahab Al Awadhi, Head of marhaba Global, said: “We are thrilled to expand our global footprint and enhance our offering by opening, expanding and refurbishing marhaba lounges at some of the world’s busiest airports.

“Air travel experience has become more than just the in-flight journey. From the moment they enter the terminal, passengers are looking for quality services to improve their travel experience at the airports. Taking advantage of our global network and extensive experience in airport and catering services, we pride ourselves in offering a premium lounge product that has been designed to fully meet the needs of passengers of all travel classes. We look forward to welcoming even more travellers in our uniform marhaba lounges, providing the same service excellence to them across the globe."

marhaba will provide a consistent brand experience, delivering the same excellent quality services for business and leisure travellers in all of its lounges. All facilities will offer comfortable seating, superfast Wi-Fi, and international buffet catering to a wide range of dietary requirements. Several lounges will also feature a quiet zone for relaxation, shower facilities and dedicated kids areas.

marhaba constantly improves its products and services to enhance customer experience. It has recently launched a new website, which is easy to navigate on all devices, including tablets and smartphones, allowing customers to quickly select their preferred product and make tailor-made bookings with only a few clicks. marhaba plans to add more functionalities to the website, including a personalization and recommendation engine.

marhaba, which means ‘welcome’ in Arabic, was launched in the UAE to help passengers arriving in or departing from Dubai International Airport. The popularity of meet & greet services has grown exponentially in line with Dubai’s growth as a major international travel hub, and marhaba has continually expanded its product offering with a growing list of services and extra options designed to make the passenger airport experience as comfortable as possible.

marhaba started to expand its global footprint in 2017 by opening new airport lounges in Karachi (Pakistan) and Melbourne (Australia). Since then, it has opened a new facility in Singapore and substantially increased the capacity of its airport lounges in Dubai. Including its new and rebranded lounges, marhaba will operate 13 departure airport lounges in five countries providing service excellence to over 2.6 million passengers annually with a team of over 800 customer-oriented employees.

The marhaba brand is part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers. A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services at 127 airports in 19 countries.