Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (RUH) serves as a major gateway to Saudi Arabia and the world, with five passenger terminals accommodating domestic and international flights. For travelers seeking comfort and luxury before their flights, the airport offers a variety of top-tier lounges, each designed to cater to different preferences and travel needs. Whether flying domestic or abroad, these lounges provide premium amenities to recharge, dine, work, or unwind in style and convenience.

Altanfeethi Lounge

The leading VIP lounge in RUH, Altanfeethi Lounge offers an upscale setting, private dining rooms, table service, and a trendy yet cozy atmosphere. Known for attentive hospitality, it’s suitable for groups, solo travelers, and tourists seeking exclusivity and seamless service.

Located in the domestic terminal, Altanfeethi is open 24/7 and supports multiple payment options including credit card, debit card, and NFC mobile payments. Wheelchair accessibility and a variety of parking choices are available. Advance reservations are highly recommended.

Facilities:

• 24/7 access via advance reservation
• Private dining rooms and table service
• Gourmet food and dancing/entertainment areas
• Wheelchair accessibility and child-friendly amenities
• Valet and free parking options

This lounge is perfect for solo travelers and groups looking for an elegant place to

Hayyak Lounge

Hayyak Lounge offers two modern locations in Terminals 3 and 5, both open around the clock. Facilities feature comfortable seating that reflects Arab hospitality, food and beverages buffet, sleep rooms, and VIP rooms. Access can be complimentary for first/business-class passengers or eligible cardholders, but paid entrance is also offered. Hayyak is wheelchair-friendly and provides paid parking. Reviews note its convenience for both international and domestic journeys.

Facilities:

• Free Wi-Fi and entertainment screens
• Hot and cold buffet meals and beverages
• Prayer rooms and children’s seating
• VIP rooms and smoking sections
• Wheelchair accessible and staffed to assist travelers

Hayyak is suitable for all traveler types, especially during busy hours.

Al Fursan Lounge

The flagship Al Fursan Lounge, operated by Saudia, is found in both Terminal 2 (international) and Terminal 5 (domestic). Certified as a 4-star lounge, it boasts hot and cold buffets, relaxing rest spaces, sleep rooms, children’s areas, showers, and a business workspace. Al Fursan is praised for cleanliness, food selection, and ample seating. Staff are efficient and pleasant. Access is complimentary for eligible Saudia/SkyTeam passengers; paid access is around SAR 168–287.50, with discounts for children.

Facilities:

• Plush seating and quiet relaxation zones
• Hot and cold buffet dining with soft and premium drinks
• Business centers, fast Wi-Fi, and printer access
• Dedicated children’s play area and prayer rooms
• Shower facilities and multiple terminal locations

Ideal for premium travelers needing a blend of work and relaxation.

Wasan Lounge

A standout for rest and privacy, Wasan Lounge (Terminal 5) is designed for long layovers and delays. The highlight is its sleep capsules with advanced lighting, charging ports, and interactive screens. Beds are hotel-quality, and the lounge accommodates up to 300 guests daily. Entry fee is SAR 149.5 (adults); sleep cabins are bookable by the hour (SAR 56/hr) or full session (single/double beds at SAR 134–172.5).

Facilities:

• Sleep pods with adjustable lighting and charging ports
• Workstations with high-speed Wi-Fi
• Buffet and à la carte dining options
• Prayer room and children’s play areas
• VIP rooms and smoking cabins

Wasan Lounge is a fantastic choice for business travelers and families seeking comfort and privacy.

Plaza Premium Lounge | Terminal 1

The international traveler’s favorite, Plaza Premium Lounge (Terminal 1/2, opposite Gate 21) serves 24/7 with a calm, spacious environment, seating for 210, Arabian and international cuisine, prayer area, high-speed Wi-Fi, and amenities including disabled access, flight monitors, and children’s rates. Walk-in rates: SAR 195/2 hours, SAR 335/5 hours, SAR 535/10 hours, with children discounted. No sleep pods, but excellent for short stays and work.

Facilities:

• Wide range of local and international dishes, including made-to-order meals
• Comfortable seating, sleep rooms, and showers with luxury bath products
• High-speed Wi-Fi, entertainment pods, and reading materials
• Prayer rooms and family-friendly zones
• 24/7 availability and wheelchair accessible

Plaza Premium balances modern amenities with traditional warmth, ideal for various traveler types.

Flynas Lounge (Nasmiles Lounge)

Flynas Lounge (Nasmiles Lounge) in Terminal 5 caters to Flynas passengers and select loyalty participants. Rated 3.5/5, it’s open 7am–6pm, offers essential comforts and free parking, and is wheelchair accessible. While smaller than others, it’s a convenient option for Flynas travelers.

Facilities:

• 24/7 operation and private seating areas
• Hot meals, snacks, and refreshments
• VIP rooms, sleep rooms, and prayer facilities
• Complimentary luggage storage and luxury car service

Flynas Lounge provides convenience and comfort tailored for domestic flyers.

Useful Tips for Travelers

• Book in Advance: Reserve access early for lounges like Altanfeethi, particularly during peak travel seasons.
• Know Your Eligibility: Check if your ticket, airline status, or membership programs (Priority Pass, Alfursan Gold) grant access or if you need to pay for entry.
• Arrive Early: Reach the airport 2-3 hours ahead to enjoy lounge amenities fully, especially showers and dining.
• Use Facilities Fully: Take advantage of showers, workstations, prayer rooms, kids’ zones, and charging stations available in most lounges.
• Family Friendly: Opt for lounges with kids’ play areas and accessible facilities if traveling with children.
• Work Ready: Bring necessary adapters and leverage business centers and reliable Wi-Fi to stay productive.
• Dietary Needs: Inform lounge staff about any dietary restrictions to ensure suitable meal options.
• Terminal Transfers: Note that Terminal 5 (domestic) is not connected on foot to Terminals 1-4 and requires a shuttle.

Following these tips ensures a smooth, comfortable, and luxurious airport experience in Riyadh.

With these lounges and tips in hand, every traveler can recharge in style, whether for a short domestic hop or a long international journey, making King Khalid International Airport a true gateway of comfort and elegance in Saudi Arabia.

This feature provides a comprehensive guide to the best places to relax, dine, and refresh before flights at Riyadh International Airport in 2025.

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has joined forces with AGEOP Ricerca to bring comfort and joy to children battling cancer in Bologna. As part of this heartfelt initiative, Emirates donated 200 backpacks and activity books to young patients receiving treatment at the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Department of IRCCS Policlinico di Sant’Orsola.

AGEOP Ricerca, an independent association active since 1982, supports children with cancer and their families, many of whom travel from across Italy and abroad to access specialized therapies unavailable in their hometowns. This collaboration underscores Emirates’ commitment to “connecting communities” by forging meaningful relationships and making a positive difference in the places it serves.

The backpacks, a signature item given to young passengers onboard Emirates flights, have been repurposed to offer encouragement, familiarity, and a sense of normalcy to children facing difficult medical challenges.

Flavio Ghiringhelli, Emirates’ Country Manager in Italy, expressed the airline’s pride in supporting the local community: “We’ve long sought a project that would allow us to support the local community in a truly meaningful way. We’re especially proud this initiative is taking place in Bologna, where we are celebrating ten years since our first flight to the city. It reflects our deep roots here, and it’s a tangible way of showing the children and their families that they are not alone — that a global community stands with them, even from thousands of kilometres away.”

Francesca Testoni, General Director of AGEOP Ricerca, highlighted the significance of the donation, especially during summer: “Each and every backpack that Emirates donates represents more than the object itself: it is a thought, a kind touch, a sign of attention from those beyond the walls of the pediatric oncology hospital. Receiving these during the summer, a time when most people think of vacations but paediatric cancer patients cannot, means so much. It helps ease loneliness and reminds us they are supported. We are very thankful to Emirates for enabling us to maintain crucial care programs — programs that must never stop.”

The donation aims to brighten the hospital experience with moments of fun and distraction, particularly at a time when social opportunities can be scarce. This thoughtful act complements Emirates’ broader mission to connect communities not just through its global flight network, but through solidarity and care for those in need.

Since its launch in 2013, Greece’s Golden Visa Program has emerged as one of Europe’s most affordable and attractive residence-by-investment schemes. Designed to draw foreign investors and their families, the program offers permanent residence permits in Greece in exchange for qualifying investments. Beyond securing a foothold in this picturesque Mediterranean country, holders enjoy visa-free access to the broader Schengen Area, unlocking opportunities for travel, education, and long-term settlement throughout much of Europe.

At its core, the Golden Visa grants investors the right to live in Greece without requiring them to reside there permanently. While the investment must be maintained to renew the residence permit every five years, applicants can pursue Greek citizenship after seven years of continuous residence—a compelling prospect for those seeking deeper ties to Europe.

One of the program’s key attractions is its family inclusion provision, allowing the primary applicant to include their spouse, dependent children under 21, and dependent parents from both sides, offering a pathway for entire families to benefit from the residence permit.

The program’s investment thresholds vary according to the type and location of assets. The most accessible option starts at €250,000, specifically for specialized real estate projects like restoration of listed buildings or conversion of commercial properties. For broader real estate purchases, a minimum investment of €400,000 is required for a single property of at least 120 sqm, with prime locations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, and the larger Greek islands commanding a higher threshold of €800,000.

Beyond property, the scheme includes other qualifying routes. Investors can opt for long-term lease agreements for hotels or furnished tourist residences, generally valued between €400,000 and €800,000 based on location. Financial investments are also accepted, including a €500,000 deposit in Greek credit institutions, capital contributions of the same amount in Greek companies or mutual funds, or the purchase of government bonds maturing in at least three years. Additionally, investments in listed shares, corporate bonds, or mutual funds linked to Greece range from €350,000 to €800,000.

For global investors, the program offers a wealth of benefits. Apart from visa-free travel across the Schengen zone, holders can live in Greece without mandatory minimum stays. Investment properties may be rented out, while shares in Greek companies can yield dividends, providing financial flexibility. As long as the investment is maintained, the residence permit has no expiry limit and can be renewed every five years.

Furthermore, residents gain access to Greece’s reputable education and healthcare systems, enhancing its appeal for families seeking stability and quality of life in Europe.

The application process typically involves four key steps. Prospective investors first visit Greece to select their preferred investment. They then complete their property purchase or financial transaction before submitting the application accompanied by essential documents such as passports, proof of investment, health insurance, and clean criminal records. After undergoing final verification, the residence permit is issued. Processing times can vary, with many applicants engaging legal and advisory firms to ensure compliance with all documentation requirements.

Greece’s Golden Visa Program stands out not only because of its affordability but also due to the country’s stable legal system, quality healthcare, and solid education network. Its strategic geographic location facilitates easy connections to Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a gateway for global mobility.

Today, the Greece Golden Visa remains a top choice for investors seeking residency security and enhanced mobility within Europe. With its adaptable investment options, family inclusiveness, and an inviting lifestyle, the program continues to attract applicants from around the world eager to make Greece their new home.

Starting September 1, travelers to Bali, including Kiwis, must adapt to a new customs and immigration process with the introduction of the All Indonesia declaration card. This streamlined declaration form merges the existing customs and immigration processes into one, simplifying entry procedures at Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Travelers are required to complete the All Indonesia declaration online no more than 72 hours before their flight, which then generates a QR code to be presented upon arrival for immigration clearance. While the form integrates multiple procedures, it does not replace visa requirements, which must still be obtained separately.

Currently, this digital declaration system is being rolled out exclusively in Bali, with plans to extend it across all Indonesian international airports by October 1. The introduction of the All Indonesia system follows earlier changes this year, including a $15.50 (150,000 IDR) tourist levy implemented by the Bali Provincial Government to fund initiatives focused on preserving the island’s culture and natural environment.

This new approach aims to create a faster, more efficient, and user-friendly entry experience for travelers entering Bali while maintaining compliance with Indonesia’s immigration, customs, and health requirements.

Abu Dhabi is home to Etihad Airways, the UAE's national airline and one of the world's top carriers, offering a travel experience that goes far beyond simply getting from point A to B. Travelers can enjoy unique perks such as a free two-night stay at luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi when booking long-haul flights with stopovers, allowing for a mini-vacation within their journey.

The stopover experience is further enhanced with a Stopover Pass that provides 15 percent discounts on major attractions and Yas Island theme parks, along with a complimentary local SIM card loaded with 10GB data for seamless connectivity.

Passengers who booked Economy tickets can bid for upgrades to Business or First Class up to four hours before departure, gaining access to fully reclining seats and gourmet meals. Loyalty members enjoy an additional bonus on miles for successful bids. The Etihad Guest loyalty program rewards travelers who reach Silver status with free access to the luxurious Etihad Lounge at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport, featuring vast buffets, bars, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Staying connected in-flight is made easy with free messaging on popular apps for all loyalty members, while First Class and Platinum members enjoy complimentary full Wi-Fi. For sports fans, Etihad streams live major sporting events on longer flights, ensuring passengers don’t miss crucial matches. Lastly, the airline offers the exceptional A380 multi-room private Residence suite on select routes, featuring a bedroom with a double bed, an ensuite bathroom with a shower, a plush living room, personalized dining, and even a spa treatment at the airport.

These features, along with attentive service and innovative amenities such as pre-order shopping and the Flying Nanny childcare service, make Etihad Airways a standout choice for travelers seeking comfort, luxury, and unique experiences from their flight.

Singapore Changi Airport is widely recognized as a premier dining destination, celebrated for its extensive range of food offerings catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Unlike typical airports known for overpriced and mediocre meals, Changi has curated a compelling food experience that attracts not only travelers but also many locals who regularly visit for casual dining and family outings.

The airport features over 300 dining establishments across its terminals and the Jewel Changi Airport complex, including casual eateries, food courts replicating Singapore’s famous hawker centers, and upscale restaurants. Its culinary variety ranges from local favorites like laksa, chicken rice, and roti prata to international cuisines such as Korean bibimbap and Indian specialties, tailored to the predominant flows of travelers in each terminal. Family-friendly options like Crown Prince Kitchenette are especially popular with locals.

Changi Airport Group maintains hands-on involvement in planning food and beverage outlets, focusing on passenger flow, seating comfort, and pricing equity with popular city locales like Orchard Road. Affordable prices, such as $2 coffees, are deliberately offered alongside premium dining experiences. Jewel Changi adds a unique dimension with spacious dining venues showcasing both global brands and local favorites, fostering a vibrant gastronomic hub.

Several new restaurants have launched recently, including Claypot Daddy and Gwangjang Gaon, blending affordable meals with authentic regional flavors. Innovative concepts such as a guided food trail game enhance engagement for both visitors and locals. Airport dining also adapts to operational constraints like kitchen exhaust limitations, ensuring quality and convenience with curated menus.

With ongoing expansion plans for Terminal 5, Changi aims to further broaden its dining portfolio with larger restaurants and more diverse offerings, securing its place as a world-leading airport culinary destination that celebrates Singapore’s rich food culture while meeting the needs of global travelers.