Emirates is not known for lounging, but the award winning carrier will encourage you to do just that after launching the 21st executive lounge on its global network in Zurich, Switzerland.

The superbly-equipped travel sanctuary, boasting dramatic views of the Swiss Alps, is yet another dedicated Emirates Lounge, offering passengers the latest in comfort, convenience and luxury whilst on the move.

Walter Riggans, Vice President, Emirates Airport Services (Outstations), officially opened the brand new facility before sinking into one of the lounge's 99 inviting leather seats. Joining him at the opening ceremony were Obaid Salem Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to Switzerland, Thomas Kern, CEO of Unique, which operates Zurich Airport and Juerg Mueller, Emirates Area Manager, Switzerland.

Away from the hustle and bustle of Zurich Airport, passengers can catch up on work at the Business Centre, surf the internet using complimentary broadband access and lose themselves in the gourmet cuisine, exquisitely prepared by on-site chefs.

Passengers can also take a shower - with Timeless Spa accessories on hand, watch widescreen TV or a DVD, or have a therapeutic session in a scientifically-designed massage chair whilst sipping a drink from the complimentary bar.

Mr Riggans said: “We have invested millions of US dollars in providing dedicated Emirates Lounges for our passengers and we are proud to bring our superb product to Zurich Airport. The Emirates Lounges are a true sanctuary for air travellers and add ease, luxury and comfort to their journeys. We have no doubt that our valued customers will enjoy the excellent facilities in Switzerland just as much as those who have enjoyed Emirates Lounges elsewhere on our six continent network.”

Thomas Kern said: “We are very pleased with the new Emirates Lounge at Zurich Airport. It offers Emirates’ Premium passengers comprehensive comfort before their departure and meets the highest quality standards. Unique, as airport operator, also aspires to these standards. Moreover, the construction of the lounge embodies the good relationship between Emirates and Zurich Airport, which goes back 16 years.”

Mr Kern added: “The lounge is a clear commitment from Emirates to the destination of Zurich. I would like to thank Emirates on behalf of Unique, and I am very much looking forward to further prosperous collaboration with Emirates in the future.” 

The Emirates Lounge in Zurich, which was officially opened on Thursday evening, is located next to Gate E53, from where Emirates flights normally arrive and depart. In addition to the picture-postcard views of the Swiss Alps on a clear day, the lounge offers an excellent vantage point for airport activity.

Emirates Lounge facilities are available to its First and Business Class passengers and Gold members of Skywards, the airline's frequent flyer programme.

Emirates will continue to offer First and Business Class travellers its renowned support on the ground, including complimentary chauffeur-drive services, exclusive First and Business Class check-in desks and priority baggage handling. 

Besides Zurich, the airline offers dedicated lounges in Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Auckland, Bangkok, Dubai, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Munich, New York JFK, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Singapore. More are to follow.