Emirates has opened a lounge at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the first at that airport.

The airline’s newest dedicated lounge will accommodate customers flying on its triple daily A380 services.

Measuring 900 square meters, the lounge cost a reported $5.4m to construct and will cater to First and Business class ticket holders, as well as Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members, with the capacity to accommodate 190 guests at any one time.

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Once regarded as foreboding and unwelcoming places, airports in Saudi Arabia have improved markedly in recent years as part of the government’s ‘Vision 2030’ plan to present the middle-eastern theocracy as a modern country where foreigners might want to visit for business or leisure.

Mohammed Mattar, VP Airport Services at Emirates commented, “Jeddah was our first gateway into the Kingdom 35 years ago, so it’s fitting that the King Abdulaziz International Airport, a world-class facility is the first airport in the region outside of Dubai to feature an Emirates dedicated lounge.

The new lounge features regional design influences and features a range of dining options, shower facilities, a prayer room, and other amenities.