Marbaha actually means Hello in Arabic. Marhaba is a lounge operator with tons of locations around the world. I have always visited the SATS lounge and it is usually my go-to one given that it is open around the clock. You can also check out my review of the lounge here. This time around, I managed to check out the other popular lounge. It has been quite some time since I have been to the Marhaba. The Marhaba and SATS are the two best lounges that you should visit if flying out of Terminal 3 at Changi Airport. At a point in time, this also used to be the temporary KrisFlyer Gold Lounge. I love the modern design and how it opens up towards the terminal which makes it very welcoming with tons of natural light. As far as contract lounges go, this is very decent.
Access Requirements
The Marhaba Lounge is open daily from 4pm to 12am. You can access this lounge via lounge program membership like Priority Pass. I have an unlimited Priority Pass thru my Citi Prestige Credit Card and use that to access the lounge. A normal entrance will cost 32 USD. There was no wait at the entrance and I was admitted entrance after showing my card and boarding pass. Do note that entrance might be limited at times when there is overcrowding which happens pretty often given the travel demand right now.
Arrival & Location
The lounge is located on the second floor, one level above the main terminal. Head right after clearing immigration. The lounge is located near the food court area, just behind it. Signs are easily available and you should have no issue finding them. I was welcomed in after presenting my PP card and the boarding pass.
Marhaba Lounge Changi Airport Terminal 3
The lounge is not overly spacious and huge. It is rather rectangular in configuration and stretched along the terminal with views of the tarmac. The design of Terminal 3 makes it rather limited in views with all the panels. Right after entering, you have a little overflow sitting area on the left that is filled with typical lounge couches. This is quite a nice place to chill and relax at. Plenty of outlets can be found around the area and they even have wireless charging pads.
You have also some high-top table kind of seating.
Towards the words the other end of the lounge, you can find even more couches. This will be the primary spot that I will choose. There are also some high-top seatings here. Chic!
Food & Drinks
Nearest to the refreshment area you also can find some proper dining tables which are more suitable for dining. The refreshment area is sort of in the middle of the lounge. I am pretty impressed by the food and beverages at the Marhaba. There is an impressive seven hot dishes which constitutes of Chicken Rendang, Fish Curry, Moroccan Chicken, Pasta, and Potatoes. Everything looks so good and they even have chicken satay on offer.
Those who prefer a lighter option can also grab some packaged sandwiches, cakes, cheese platters, salads or fruits. This might just be the best contract lounge in Changi Airport in terms of food.
Drinks wise they have some wines, can beers and soft drinks in the fridge. You can also find some spirits, tea and coffee machine.
The lounge also has showers and toilets which is always a nice touch to have. I did not manage to check it out since they were occupied at the time of my visit.
Conclusion
This might just be my go-to lounge in Terminal 3 if I ever need a contract lounge. It comes in very useful whenever I am flying on budget or in economy class. SATS is my favourite in T1 but the winner goes to Marhaba over here in T3. Trying to get an unlimited Priority Pass or at least complimentary entrances that fit your travel habits should be a priority. They can often come in handy at times. This is one lounge that I do not mind paying for entrance if I need to get a meal and a shower during transit. Adding up overpriced airport food and shower, it might just cost the same or with just a little more, you get unlimited drinks.
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