Prime Highlights:
- Residents of the UAE who use Mastercard or Visa cards will be subject to tougher terms for airport lounge access from June 1, 2025.
- The changes involve registration via an app, spending requirements, and limited visits based on card type.
Key Facts:
- Mastercard holders need to register through the Mastercard Travel Pass app and spend a $1+ international transaction in 3 months.
- Visa cardmembers are required to use the Visa Airport Companion app and satisfy particular spending within 35 days prior to the trip.
- Free visits to lounges will now be restricted on a card tier basis (Platinum, World, Elite, Signature, Infinite, etc.).
Key Background :
Travelers from the UAE with Mastercard or Visa cards will see a significant shift in how they use airport lounges starting June 1, 2025. Mastercard unveiled new requirements under which cardholders have to access lounges via the Mastercard Travel Pass app. They also have to make an international purchase of at least USD 1 in the last three months to receive free access. Annual visit thresholds will now be in effect based on card type: Platinum (4 visits), World (8 visits), and World Elite (14 visits). These thresholds will be in effect from May 1 through December 31 for the 2025 transition year.
Visa has also updated its lounge policy. Card members must now sign up through the Visa Airport Companion app. This digital membership takes the place of the old card-swipe process. For Visa cardholders to be eligible to enter the lounge, there are spending limits to be met 35 days prior to lounge access. The maximum number of complimentary visits will also depend on card type and spending habits. Platinum cards, for instance, could provide a maximum of 6 visits, Signature 10, while Infinite cards could maintain unlimited visits depending on issuer conditions.
These adjustments are part of a wider initiative by banks to more effectively manage lounge entry perks by making certain that they go to active, high-use cardholders. Travelers are urged to move early by signing up on the applicable apps and keeping tabs on their paying habits so that they can maintain eligibility.
