Al Reem Lounge by Plaza Premium Lounge

Al Reem Lounge by Plaza Premium Lounge – Abu Dhabi (AUH) | © Plaza Premium

The Al Reem Lounge at Abu Dhabi international airport Terminal 1 is a member of Plaza Premium’s vast network of worldwide independent airport clubs. The operator also runs a sister facility, the Al Dhabi Lounge, a short walk away.

The Al Reem Lounge functions primarily on a pay-in basis. All passengers, regardless of airline or class of service, can purchase their way in. Plaza Premium also honors various memberships including Priority Pass and Lounge Club. In addition, Qatar Airways, Alitalia, Air Serbia, Philippine Airlines, and Virgin Australia use the Al Reem Lounge for their premium passengers. Etihad also grants access to their lower-tier frequent flyers at the Silver levels (Gold members and beyond have access to Etihad’s own Premium Lounge.)

Al Reem Lounge by Plaza Premium Lounge AUH design

A far cry from Dubai’s showcase airport, Abu Dhabi airport Terminal 1 is a much more mundane and modest facility. The Al Reem Lounge and adjacent Etihad Premium Lounge are crammed in an oddly-shaped, windowless space.

Al Reem Lounge by Plaza Premium Lounge – Abu Dhabi (AUH)

The designers of the Al Reem Lounge have done a remarkable job at making the most of the situation. The club’s impressive architecture fully utilizes the three-tiered space, with a bar on the lower level, an intimate seating area at mid-tier, and a grandiose dining area on the upper level dominated by a massive chandelier. Curved lines, dark tones, and recessed lighting throughout create an intimate and upper-scale ambiance.

Several aspects of the décor are typical of Plaza Premium Lounges worldwide, though the elaborate partitions and floor motifs add a fitting local touch.

Al Reem Lounge by Plaza Premium Lounge – Abu Dhabi (AUH)

The layout emphasizes privacy, with intimate alcoves for couples, dividers between the dining and seating areas, and side tables with individual lamps at most seats. There are also social spaces, including a bar on the lower level, and a communal table and a dining area with booth seating on the upper level.

Power outlets are readily available, though not at every seat—they’re notably absent from the dining area, which would otherwise double as a convenient work space.

Unfortunately, patrons are unlikely to note the delicately crafted décor. At peak times, the lounge fills up to the point that finding a seat is an ordeal, and the constant movement of guests struggling to navigate the stairs and tight spaces can be bothersome.

Al Reem Lounge by Plaza Premium Lounge AUH amenities

The Al Reem Lounge by Plaza Premium Lounge at Abu Dhabi airport offers a range of essential amenities.

Al Reem Lounge by Plaza Premium Lounge – Abu Dhabi (AUH)

Visitors are greeted with a traditional spread of hot tea and dates, elegantly presented on a custom tray. There is also a full buffet with a rotating selection of hot entrees, as well as snacks, a salad bar, and sweet treats. Soft drinks and espresso are available for self-service in the buffet area, while a staffed bar is located on the lower-level. The setup isn’t the most convenient, as two flights of stairs separate the bar area from the dining room. Only beer is complimentary: all other adult libations come at a cost, which is highly disappointing for an international lounge.

Secure Wi-Fi is available, though there are no business amenities to speak of otherwise.

A few showers are available, and come equipped with towels and bath products. Be sure to inquire early as there may be a wait at peak times.

Other amenities include a smoking room, and a selection of newspapers and magazines.

Al Reem Lounge by Plaza Premium Lounge AUH bottom line

The Al Reem Lounge by Plaza Premium Lounge at Abu Dhabi airport Terminal 1 sports a noteworthy architecture, and features a substantial line-up of amenities including hot food and showers.

While eerily quiet at off times, the Al Reem Lounge is painfully crowded and woefully inadequate at peak times. The line to enter routinely stretches outside the door; finding a seat is a challenge; and the dark, windowless space becomes oppressive when crowded. While visually intriguing, the multi-level layout impedes the flow of guests and makes for a stressful experience. The Al Dhabi Lounge in significantly more spacious and makes for a good alternative at peak times.