QATAR. Airport Dimensions is set to launch its first non-traditional lounge at Hamad International Airport (HIA), based on the concept of recently acquired sleep lounge pioneer, sleep ’n fly.
The premium shared-use airport lounge provider is opening a 225sq m space – also its first premium lounge offer in the Middle East – which features a selection of sleep pods and cabins with accommodation for up to 50 guests.
The new facility is located at the heart of HIA’s transit area, close to the airport’s well-known art installation, Lamp Bear.
The new concept combines Airport Dimensions’ expertise in global lounge operations and design with sleep ’n fly’s established offer to provide comfortable, private sleeping areas for air passengers.
Visitors can pay by the hour to stay at one of the new sleep units, which provide a soundproofed and air-conditioned space to relax and rest ahead of flights.
There are two grades of accommodation available – FlexiSuite Pods (24) and Sleep Cabins (13).
FlexiSuite Pods provide a 180° flat-bed reclining seat, representing a world first in sleeping pod design. They feature dimmable ambient lighting, a reading light, a 32-inch screen to connect to the travellers’ mobile, tablet or laptop, a folding tray table, cup holders, a small waste bin, baggage storage and compartments to store coats, shoes and laptop.
In the Sleep Cabins, there are four double bed cabins available with an optional pull-out bed for a child of up to 115 cm in height (maximum two adults and one child). Each space has main, ambient and reading lights, an alarm clock, a coat hanger, a mirror and tray table. There are also nine bunk bed cabins, with a similar specification.
Airport Dimensions Managing Director Errol McGlothan said: “With its state-of-the-art facilities and five-star service, Hamad International is the perfect place to launch our new sleep and private space concept and, indeed, our first lounge concept in the Middle East.
“The sleep pods and cabins provide a convenient, premium and safe space for travellers looking to recharge during a long layover or enjoy a quick nap before an early morning flight. We’re looking forward to working with the airport to further enhance the travel experience for passengers.”
Airport Dimensions emphasised that it is taking all the necessary steps to ensure guests feel safe at the new facility, in the COVID-19 era. All sleep lounges, sleep pods and cabins are thoroughly disinfected after every guest check-out, and any public touch points such as reception counters and payment terminals are disinfected after each use. All sleep ’n fly staff have been receiving regular health and safety training and coronavirus testing.
