Dublin Airport Unveils Major Lounge Upgrades in T1 & T2

> **Quick Summary**
> - **Dublin Airport (DUB/EIDW):** New Liffey Lounge opens between Terminal 1 and 2, replacing T2 Lounge; Martello Lounge rebranded from East Lounge.
> - **51st&Green Lounge:** Closed for refurbishment until spring 2026, impacting US-bound premium passengers with temporary seating and vouchers.
> - **Traveler Impact:** Access complimentary buffets, showers, and workspaces starting from €25; book via [Dublin Airport](https://www.dublinairport.com).
> - **What's Next:** T1 Lounge overhaul to double size later 2026, plus 10+ new food outlets and $2.4B expansions including Sofitel hotel.

Dublin Airport (DUB/EIDW) has rolled out significant lounge enhancements in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, targeting premium travelers especially those heading to North America. The new Liffey Lounge, positioned between the terminals, replaces the old T2 Lounge and serves as a key upgrade in the airport's push for better passenger experiences.

These changes form the initial phase of a broader lounge revamp. The East Lounge has been rebranded as The Martello Lounge, while the 51st&Green Lounge in Terminal 2 remains closed for refurbishment until spring 2026.

## Why This Matters for Premium Travelers

Dublin Airport handles heavy transatlantic traffic, making lounge quality crucial for long-haul passengers. With lounges often sold out, these upgrades address surging demand and aim to sustain high passenger satisfaction scores from last year.

North American routes, including US preclearance, see heavy use by airlines like Aer Lingus. The closures and reopenings directly affect business class flyers, who now face temporary measures amid the $2.4 billion renovation megaproject.

Ronan Fitzsimons, General Manager Commercial at Dublin Airport, stated: "We're constantly listening to passengers, and we know there is strong demand for more and better lounge space. Our lounges have never been more popular and are almost constantly sold-out."

This positions Dublin as a stronger transatlantic hub, with expansions like South Apron for widebody aircraft and additional US preclearance lanes.

## Liffey Lounge: The New Centrepiece

The Liffey Lounge offers a serene pre-flight escape accessible from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. It features comfortable seating, a complimentary buffet with snacks, soup, sandwiches, pastries, and salads, plus self-service coffee and tea.

Passengers enjoy soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, USB and wireless charging, showers, printing facilities, and workspaces. Special introductory rates start at €25 per person to mark the opening.

Ambient lighting and noise-absorbing materials create a calm atmosphere, ideal for unwinding before North American flights.

## Martello Lounge: Rebranded Elegance

Formerly the East Lounge, The Martello Lounge brings spa-like interiors, curated Irish artwork, and signature cocktails. It caters to premium passengers seeking relaxation in a reimagined space.

This lounge enhances the premium experience with modern comforts, aligning with Dublin's focus on luxury amid high traffic volumes.

## 51st&Green Lounge: Temporary Disruptions for US Passengers

The 51st&Green Lounge in the US Preclearance area closed from October 1 until spring 2026 for refurbishment. Aer Lingus US-bound business class passengers receive a reserved seating area in Terminal 2 concourse plus a voucher, but no full lounge access.

This stems from simultaneous renovations of two lounges by Dublin Airport Authority (DAA). Travelers report suboptimal Wi-Fi and pre-immigration location as drawbacks.

Work on this lounge follows the Liffey opening, promising expanded capacity post-refurbishment.

## Upcoming Overhauls in Terminal 1 and 2

Later this year, the T1 Lounge will undergo a complete overhaul and extension, nearly doubling in size. Expect private workspaces, recliner zones, and luxury shower suites.

The 51st&Green in Terminal 2 will also expand. These changes support over 1,000 new designer seats with charging hubs across terminals.

## Key Facts at a Glance

| Detail | Data |
|--------|------|
| Airport | Dublin Airport (DUB / EIDW) |
| New Openings | Liffey Lounge (T1-T2), Martello Lounge (rebrand) |
| Closed Until | 51st&Green: Spring 2026 |
| Access Cost | From €25 per person |
| Features | Showers, buffet, charging, workspaces, drinks |
| Broader Project | $2.4B renovations incl. Sofitel hotel (late 2026) |
| New Outlets | 10+ food/drink by summer (Pret A Manger, Italian court) |

## What This Means for North American Travelers

Premium flyers to the US and Canada benefit from immediate Liffey and Martello access, bypassing 51st&Green disruptions. Book lounges early via airline apps or [Dublin Airport site](https://www.dublinairport.com).

Long-haul passengers gain from showers and workspaces post-US preclearance. Introductory €25 rates make it accessible beyond elite status.

## Challenges and Risks

Simultaneous closures frustrated US-bound Aer Lingus passengers, with reserved seating criticized as inadequate. Wi-Fi issues in temporary spaces add hurdles.

High demand risks sell-outs, and construction timelines could shift. Travelers should confirm access via [Aer Lingus](https://www.aerlingus.com).

The $2.4B project, including a 412-room Sofitel with rooftop bar, faces execution risks but promises a transatlantic hub upgrade.

Additional 2026 improvements include Fast Track in T1, Drop & Go parking, Airport Club, better wayfinding, hydration stations, and public transport seating.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Which lounges are open at Dublin Airport right now?**  
The Liffey Lounge (between T1 and T2) and rebranded Martello Lounge are open as of March 2026. 51st&Green remains closed until spring 2026; US business class gets reserved seating and vouchers via Aer Lingus.

**Can North American travelers access these new lounges?**  
Yes, Liffey and Martello are available to premium passengers from €25. US preclearance users affected by 51st&Green closure use alternatives; check [FlightAware](https://[FlightAware](https://flightaware.com).com) for flight-linked bookings.

**What amenities do the upgraded lounges offer?**  
Complimentary buffet (snacks, soups, salads), drinks (alcoholic/soft), showers, charging ports, workspaces, and printing. Ambient designs enhance relaxation for transatlantic flights.

**When will all Dublin Airport lounges be fully upgraded?**  
T1 Lounge doubles in size later 2026; 51st&Green reopens spring 2026. Part of $2.4B project with hotel and expansions by late 2026, per [FAA](https://www.faa.gov) monitored developments.

## Related Travel Guides

[Ultimate Guide to US Preclearance at Dublin Airport](/dublin-us-preclearance-guide-2026)  
[Aer Lingus Business Class Review 2026](/aer-lingus-business-class-dub-2026)  
[Ireland Airport Expansion Impacts](/ireland-airports-renovations-2026)

**Disclaimer:** Data sourced from Dublin Airport, Aer Lingus, and aviation reports as of March 18, 2026. Verify lounge access and status with airline or [IATA](https://www.iata.org) before travel.