Turkish Investor Launches High-End Airport Lounge in Mombasa

A Turkish investor has established a new lounge at the Moi International Airport (MIA) in Mombasa, aiming to capitalize on the increasing number of passengers passing through the airport.

The Bosphorus Lounge, spanning an impressive 10,000 square feet and capable of accommodating up to 150 guests, represents a substantial upgrade to MIA's amenities. The lounge's design, which artfully incorporates elements of coastal culture, sets a new standard for premium travel experiences in Kenya. Launched by a Turkish investor, the Bosphorus Lounge aims to cater to the increasing passenger traffic through MIA. Airport manager Abel Gogo emphasizes that this development aligns with Kenya Airports Authority's commitment to maintaining high standards of service excellence, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

The lounge offers a range of world-class amenities, including high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations, dedicated workspaces, massage services, laundry and shower facilities, and gourmet dining options featuring both Kenyan and international cuisines. The opening of this premium lounge is particularly timely given the recent uptick in passenger numbers at MIA. Official data indicates an 82.3 per cent increase in passenger arrivals last year, reaching 157,000. This growth is expected to continue, with several airlines considering direct flights to Mombasa. In January, Flydubai launched direct flights from Dubai to Mombasa, joining Kenya Airways on this route and further boosting connectivity to the region.

The launch event for the Bosphorus Lounge was attended by notable dignitaries, including Turkish Ambassador to Kenya Subutay Yuksei and Mombasa County CEC Osman Ali who represented the Governor. Ambassador Yuksei expressed hope that the lounge's opening would pave the way for the resumption of direct flights from Turkey to Mombasa. Changamwe MP Omar Mwinyi used the occasion to call for the swift implementation of an open sky policy, which he believes would further boost tourism in the coastal region. The Bosphorus Lounge is poised to transform the pre-flight experience for business class passengers and elite members of various airlines.

Private lounges like this offer numerous advantages, including quieter environments, enhanced access to customer service representatives, space for private meetings, and a range of comfort-enhancing provisions such as complimentary refreshments and reading materials.