Airport lounge access has emerged as a top benefit for UAE credit cardholders, driving consumer preferences and influencing their choice of payment providers. Several UAE banks offer credit cards with extensive lounge access, alongside other attractive features, to cater to the travel-centric lifestyle of their clients.
UAE consumers have shown a strong preference for credit cards that provide access to premium airport lounges. This trend is evident from various offerings by major banks in the region. Emirates NBD, for instance, offers the Skywards Infinite Credit Card, which provides unlimited complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide via LoungeKey. Additionally, cardholders benefit from up to four airport transfers per calendar year, and a suite of other travel-related perks, including complimentary travel insurance and concierge services.
Another popular option is the Emirates Islamic Skywards Visa Infinite Credit Card. This card offers similar benefits, including unlimited access to global airport lounges, complimentary travel insurance, and discounts on duty-free shopping. Cardholders can also earn Skywards Miles on their everyday spends, which can be redeemed for flights and other travel-related expenses.
Mashreq Bank’s Solitaire Credit Card also provides cardholders with unlimited access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide. The card includes other benefits such as travel insurance, concierge services, and discounts on luxury hotel stays and dining.
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) offers the Etihad Guest Infinite Credit Card, which provides cardholders with unlimited access to over 1,000 lounges worldwide through LoungeKey. Additionally, cardholders can earn Etihad Guest Miles on their spending, which can be redeemed for flights and upgrades with Etihad Airways. The card also includes comprehensive travel insurance and concierge services.
These premium credit cards not only enhance the travel experience for cardholders but also offer a range of other benefits, such as discounts on hotel bookings, dining offers, and valet parking services. The extensive benefits package, combined with the convenience of airport lounge access, makes these cards highly attractive to frequent travelers in the UAE.
As competition among banks intensifies, offering such premium services has become a key differentiator in attracting and retaining high-net-worth customers. The demand for luxury travel benefits is expected to continue growing, driving banks to enhance their credit card offerings further.
The emphasis on airport lounge access highlights a broader trend in the credit card market, where travel-related benefits are increasingly valued by consumers. This trend reflects the lifestyle and preferences of UAE residents, who often travel internationally for both business and leisure. As banks continue to innovate and expand their offerings, cardholders can expect even more tailored benefits that cater to their specific needs and preferences.
