Updated October 2026.
The Ahlan Lounge at Gate B26 is one of three Ahlan lounges in Dubai International Airport Terminal 3. It sits in Concourse B and offers a useful alternative to the airline lounges. Travellers can expect table service, a broad buffet, comfortable seating and clear views across the terminal.
This review focuses on the Gate B26 lounge, formerly known as Cadiz. It covers the setting, food, facilities, access rules and practical points to check before a visit.
Ahlan Lounge Gate B26 Essential Details
- Airport: Dubai International Airport, DXB
- Terminal: Terminal 3, Concourse B
- Location: Next to Gate B26, above McDonald’s, with the entrance inside the former Cadiz Tapas Bar
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours daily
- Access: Lounge membership programmes, eligible cards, advance booking or paid entry, subject to capacity
- Typical booking period: Four hours under the current official terms
- Food and drink: International hot and cold buffet, table drinks and a staffed bar
- Other facilities: WiFi, flight information, televisions, power sockets, massage chairs and a smoking room
- Showers: Available off site on request at Dubai International Hotel, around a ten minute walk away
Entry partners and guest rules can change. Check the access conditions in your lounge app before travelling.
Location in DXB Terminal 3
The lounge is on the east side of Concourse B, beside Gate B26. Look for the entrance within the Cadiz area, then take the escalator to the second floor.
Passengers using gates in Concourses A or C can also reach it. However, the transfer can take 20 to 40 minutes. Leave enough time for the train, walk and boarding process. A lounge closer to the departure gate will often be the easier choice.
Access, Price and Stay Limits
Ahlan accepts advance bookings and walk in guests when space is available. The current official booking terms limit each reservation to four hours. Extra time costs AED 50 plus VAT per person and per hour, subject to availability.
The operator’s booking page listed entry from US$50 when checked in October 2026. A separate official page showed AED 262 for a three to four hour walk in visit. These rates are time sensitive, so confirm the final price before paying.
Children under three receive complimentary access under the latest operator terms. Card benefits, guest allowances and admission windows vary by provider.
The Lounge Experience
The Gate B26 lounge feels closer to a restaurant than a conventional airport waiting room. Much of the seating is arranged around dining tables. Neutral colours, soft chairs and dark tables create a calm and polished setting.
Smaller armchair groups sit beside the glass overlooking the concourse. These seats suit solo travellers or pairs who want more privacy. Power sockets are available near selected seats, which makes the lounge practical for charging devices.
The open position means there are terminal views rather than runway views. Noise can also carry from the concourse. Even so, the elevated setting creates some separation from the busy gate area below.
Food and Drinks
The buffet seen during this visit offered a much broader choice than a simple snack counter. Hot dishes included roasted potatoes, a vegetarian paneer dish, salmon in a creamy sauce and another rich main course. Margherita and Cajun chicken pizza were also available.
The chilled counter held cut fruit, yoghurt cups and individual cakes. Dates, small cake squares and chocolate brownies added several sweet options. The range covered both light food and a full meal.
Drinks are served at the table, which gives the lounge a more personal feel. Still and sparkling water are available, along with hot drinks and soft drinks. The staffed bar offers selected beer, wine and spirits. Availability may change during Ramadan and at other times.
Facilities and Comfort
WiFi, flight information screens and televisions cover the basics. Universal power outlets sit beside some seats. Complimentary massage chairs and a dedicated smoking room are also listed by current access partners.
The main limitation is the lack of showers inside the lounge. Shower access may be arranged at Dubai International Hotel. It is about ten minutes away, so allow extra time and ask staff before leaving the lounge.
Disabled access is listed, but the lounge does not provide airport wheelchair assistance. Arrange mobility support with the airline or at check in.
Highlights
- Convenient position for many Concourse B departures
- Twenty four hour opening
- Substantial hot and cold buffet
- Table service for drinks
- Comfortable seating with some power access
- Useful alternative to the larger Terminal 3 lounges
Things to Note
- The lounge can refuse entry when it reaches capacity.
- Advance reservations must be made at least 24 hours before the visit.
- The standard official booking is limited to four hours.
- Showers are not inside the lounge.
- Gate changes can make another Ahlan location more convenient.
- Some seats are designed mainly for dining rather than sleeping.
Practical Tips
- Confirm the departure concourse before choosing the B26 lounge.
- Save the membership card or booking confirmation for offline access.
- Ask staff early if shower access is important.
- Choose the smaller armchair groups for more privacy.
- Check the flight screens and start the walk to the gate in good time.
For another paid lounge option, read our Plaza Premium Lounge DXB review. Travellers considering airline lounge access can also compare our Emirates Business Class Lounge review. Our Emirates Nice to Dubai economy review gives more context on the Terminal 3 journey.
Booking Checklist
- Confirm that the flight departs from Terminal 3.
- Check whether the gate is in Concourse A, B or C.
- Review the lounge benefit and guest allowance in the access app.
- Reserve at least 24 hours ahead if paying directly.
- Allow extra walking time if the departure gate changes.
Is Ahlan Lounge Gate B26 Good Value?
Value depends on how the lounge is accessed. It is easy to recommend when entry is included with a card or lounge membership. The buffet, table drinks and comfortable seating make it useful during a longer wait.
Paid entry needs more thought. The full price can be difficult to justify during a short connection. It makes more sense when there is time for a meal, charging and a proper break from the terminal.
Ahlan Lounge Gate B26 Review Photos
All photographs below were taken during our visit to the Ahlan Lounge at Gate B26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ahlan Lounge Gate B26?
It is airside in Terminal 3, Concourse B, next to Gate B26. The lounge sits above McDonald’s, with the entrance inside the former Cadiz Tapas Bar.
Is the lounge open all day?
Yes. Current official and access partner listings show that it operates 24 hours a day.
Can Priority Pass members enter?
Priority Pass currently lists the lounge. Admission still depends on a valid membership, the visit entitlement and available space.
Does Ahlan Lounge Gate B26 have showers?
There are no showers inside the lounge. Off site shower facilities may be arranged at Dubai International Hotel, around ten minutes away.
Can passengers for Concourses A and C use it?
Yes, but they should allow 20 to 40 minutes to reach their gate. Choosing the nearest Ahlan lounge is usually more practical.
How long can guests stay?
The current official booking terms allow four hours. Extra time may be purchased when capacity permits.
The Brief Review Verdict
Ahlan Lounge Gate B26 is a strong Terminal 3 option for travellers who value a proper meal and table service. The buffet is varied, the seating is comfortable and the Concourse B location is convenient for nearby flights.
It is less suitable for anyone who needs an on site shower or a quiet sleeping area. Capacity and the distance to other concourses also need attention. With included access, it offers very good value. At the full paid rate, it works best during a longer wait.
Check the official Ahlan booking site and the Dubai International Hotel lounge guide for the latest access terms before travelling.