World’s first 7-star airport terminal opens in Dubai

In what is an important milestone for Dubai South and the city’s vision of becoming the aviation capital of the world, a private jet carrying 13 passengers took off from the newly built VIP Terminal - whisking its exclusive passengers to the Maldives. The flight, operated by an Embraer Legacy aircraft and handled by JetEx, marks the beginning of operations at the private aviation-dedicated terminal. “The flight brings into operation a truly beautiful facility that sets new benchmarks in terms of luxurious ambiance and excellent service. The stage is now set for robust growth in Dubai's luxury travel sector. I congratulate our partner JetEx and the entire team on the ground for so finely handling the VIP Terminal's first flight,” said Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation (DACC). Dubai South, previously known as Dubai World Central, is an emerging 145 square km master-planned city and one of the UAE’s largest under-construction developments. The sprawling urban project is home to Al Maktoum International Airport, which will become the world’s largest upon completion - ten times bigger that Dubai International (DXB).The city will eventually be home to 1 million people, as well hosting the 2020 World Expo along with DXB.

Equipped with dedicated customs, immigration, and police services, as well as separate drop-off and lounge areas, the new VIP terminal has been designed to the very highest standards, in a bid to “evoke an atmosphere of sophistication and elegance.” The 5,600m2 stand-alone terminal will operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and will cater specifically to private, business and government VIP travellers. The terminal will accommodate a number of FBOs that will each have its own dedicated lounge facilities on the landside, allowing them to extend specialised services to their VIP guests.

New 7-star VIP Terminal The 7-star facility joins the Dubai-based 7-star Burj Al Arab Jumeirah hotel - which claims to be the most luxurious hotel in the world - in what seems a constant attempt to raise the bar of luxury and extravagance in the ultra-modern Emirates city. What do you think, are 7-star establishments worthy of their rating, or is it more of a gimmick and an attempt to differentiate from other equally luxurious properties?