LoungeKey vs Priority Pass: What’s the Difference & Which UAE Credit Cards Offer Them?

What is LoungeKey?

LoungeKey offers complimentary airport lounge access with select premium cards, using the card itself for entry with no separate membership or registration required.

Features

Global Reach: 1,500+ lounges in 130+ countries

Simple Access: No app or separate membership—just use your eligible card

Flexible Usage: Number of free visits depends on card issuer’s policy

Guest Access: Typically available for AED 120–130 per guest (approx. USD $32–35)

Basic Perks: Focuses on lounge entry only—does not include extras like spa access or dining credits offered by some other programs

What is a Priority Pass?

Priority Pass is a global membership program offering access to 1,500+ airport lounges, dining, and travel services in 140+ countries — regardless of airline or ticket class.

Features:

Lounge Access: Complimentary snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and amenities

Global Reach: Available at major airports worldwide

Flexible Plans: Pay-per-visit or unlimited; included with some cards

Guest Access: Guests allowed for a fee

Extras: Dining credits, discounts, and rest areas at select lounges

What’s the difference between Priority Pass and LoungeKey?

The difference between Priority pass and Lounge key is as follows.

Is LoungeKey access free or paid?

LoungeKey access depends on the benefits linked to your UAE credit card:

Complimentary Access: Many premium cards in the UAE, such as Visa Infinite or Mastercard World Elite, include a limited number of free airport lounge visits each year.

Paid Visits: After using your free quota, or if your card doesn’t include complimentary access, you’ll be charged approximately AED 100–130 per visit.

Guest Charges: Guests are usually not covered and are charged AED 120–130 per entry, depending on your card provider.

Card Verification Hold: Some lounges may place a small temporary hold (AED 10–15) on your card, which is refunded shortly after.

How to activate LoungeKey through my credit card?

To activate your LoungeKey through credit card here are following instructions

Check Eligibility- Confirm with your bank if your card includes LoungeKey access.

Register (If Required)- Some banks require registration on the LoungeKey website or app. A small refundable charge (~AED 3–4) may apply.

Download the App- Use the LoungeKey, Visa Airport Companion, or Mastercard Travel Pass app as instructed.

Get Access Details- Log in to generate a QR code or membership ID for lounge entry.

Lounge Entry- Show your credit card and boarding pass, or scan the QR code at the lounge.

Guest Access- Guests usually pay AED 120–130 per visit. Check your card’s terms for details.

How many guests can I take using LoungeKey?

There are No fixed guest limit, but charges apply: ~AED 120–130 per guest

Actual allowance depends on your card — some banks include free guest visits, others charge

Lounges may restrict guests during busy times

Free visit quotas may be used for guest entries if allowed

Mymoneysouq team suggests you check your bank’s LoungeKey terms and the lounge’s policy before traveling.

Are LoungeKey visits limited per year?

Yes, LoungeKey visit limits depend on your card type and issuing bank. Below is the list for your reference. 

Are Priority Pass visits included or chargeable?

It depends on your card or membership type. Below is the list of your reference. 

LoungeKey & Priority Pass Eligibility

Priority Pass needs separate enrollment and comes with top-tier UAE cards.

LoungeKey links directly to your eligible Visa or Mastercard—no extra card needed.

Here is the breakdown for you.

Which credit cards offer LoungeKey membership in the UAE?

The following are the credit cards which offer LoungeKey membership in the UAE .

Which UAE credit cards come with Priority Pass?

The following are the credit cards which come with priority pass in UAE.