Starting June 1, 2025, new rules will take effect for Mastercard and Visa cardholders looking to enjoy airport lounge perks — and they’ll need to take extra steps to avoid losing access.
According to a Gulf News report, both Mastercard and Visa are rolling out digital registration requirements and stricter spending thresholds that will impact how travellers — including UAE residents — can enter lounges globally.
For Mastercard holders, downloading the Mastercard Travel Pass app and registering their card is now mandatory. Lounge access will also be limited based on card tier: Platinum holders get up to 4 visits, World cardholders 8, and World Elite members 14 per year. To unlock access, users must also spend at least USD 1 on an international purchase within three months before their visit.
Visa cardholders will need to register through the Visa Airport Companion app. Physical cards alone won’t work anymore. Access is tied to how much is spent within the 35 days leading up to a visit. Lounge visits are capped depending on card type: Platinum cardholders can get up to 6 visits, Signature up to 10, while Infinite cardholders may enjoy unlimited entries, depending on the issuer’s policy.
The calendar year for Mastercard lounge access in 2025 will run from May 1 to December 31, marking a transition to the new system.
To avoid surprises at the airport, both Mastercard and Visa users are advised to download the appropriate app, register their card, track their international spending, and stay informed about their visit limits.