The new pier in Terminal 1 at Munich Airport was officially opened April 13, with a festive ceremony attended by approximately 1,000 invited guests. Representatives from the worlds of politics, business, and aviation praised the construction project as an important step toward the future of the Bavarian aviation hub. Jost Lammers, CEO of Munich Airport, emphasized the significance of the new section of Terminal 1 for the airport’s continued development: “The new pier represents the future of our airport: more capacity, more comfort, and more international connections. As a modern gateway to the world, it strengthens our role as a leading European aviation hub.”
A space combining modern infrastructure, upscale dining, exclusive lounges, and Bavarian hospitality is being created to offer Arab travelers, one of the airport’s most important guest groups, a unique travel experience.
Premium infrastructure and comfort
The new Terminal 1 Pier combines high-quality architecture with state-of-the-art technology and holistically planned passenger experience. Spanning an area of approximately 95,000 square meters, the 360-meter-long new building has the capacity to handle up to six million additional passengers per year. The six-level facility features modern check-in areas, centralized security checkpoints equipped with the latest CT technology, spacious waiting areas, and attractive retail and dining options. Three of the levels are dedicated to passenger operations. Designated rest and quiet zones, as well as prayer rooms, are also available. The new pier can handle up to twelve short- and medium-haul aircraft or six wide-body jets simultaneously. This strengthens Munich Airport’s position as a premier hub and gateway for travelers from Arab countries. All facilities were designed and built with energy efficiency and sustainability in mind, demonstrating responsible development at the site.
Two exclusive lounges round out the offerings: The two-story Airport Lounge World, spanning 1,200 square meters, offers spectacular views of the tarmac and the Alpine panorama, a variety of dining options, work and relaxation areas, and a children’s play area. Eligible Emirates customers can enjoy the airline’s signature service and hospitality at the Emirates Lounge located in the pier – Terminal 1 A, Level 4. The new pier is home to approximately 40 international airlines.
A diverse range of dining and shopping options featuring regional and international offerings
With the opening of the new pier, Munich Airport is introducing a completely revamped dining concept focused on high-quality products, modern design, and a comfortable atmosphere. Five new restaurants – operated by the airport’s subsidiary Allresto – combine regional specialties with international trends, while also offering halal, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Käfer, the “Munich Love Brand,” offers fine dining with signature dishes. The “urban” concept, ODEON by Käfer, features a deli, and high-quality snacks to suit various schedules. Cucina Popolare is a modern Italian restaurant at the Pier that reimagines classics like pizza and pasta and invites guests to enjoy a cozy get-together. Münchner Leibspeise combines Bavarian cuisine, international dishes, and halal options across multiple food stations – supported by a self-order system for efficient service. The offering is complemented by the popular food chain dean&david, which embraces the healthy lifestyle trend with fresh salads, bowls, smoothies, and healthy hot dishes.
The heart of the pier is the central marketplace, which stands out for its appealing atmosphere. Surrounding it are some 20 retail and service areas that invite visitors to linger, relax, and shop. One highlight is the first “Walkthrough Duty-Free” area at Munich Airport. Passengers are guided directly through security and into a diverse shopping experience featuring renowned brands in the beauty, spirits, and accessories sectors. The selection is complemented by top international brands, such as Boss, Ralph Lauren, Emporio Armani, and TUMI, as well as regional highlights, like the FC Bayern fan shop.
Increasing connections between Arab countries and Munich
Munich has become a popular destination for travelers from Arab countries as well as a gateway to that region. This is also reflected in the steadily growing number of connections and increasing traffic flows between Munich and the Arab world. The pier will now serve as the new home at Munich Airport for airlines based in the Arab region and their passengers. In 2025, for example, 1.6 million passengers traveled on routes between Munich and the Gulf region – accounting for 18 percent of all long-haul traffic at Munich Airport. Subject to further developments in the region, the route network will be significantly expanded in the 2026 summer schedule: Fifteen airlines will connect Munich with fifteen destinations in ten countries, including major hubs such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Doha. The most recent addition is Royal Jordanian’s flight to Amman, which resumed this March. Furthermore, Etihad Airways plans to increase its frequency from two to three daily flights starting in September 2026. Gulf Air is expanding its presence and will increase its service to Bahrain from four weekly flights to a daily flight starting in July. Air Arabia will also continue its daily flights to Sharjah, which were introduced in December 2025, throughout the summer.
There’s also news regarding flights to North Africa: Royal Air Maroc is expanding its service to Casablanca and increasing the frequency from two to three flights per week.
Travelers from Arab countries continue to be one of the most significant international visitor segments in Munich. In 2025, the airport recorded 102,600 visitors residing in Arab countries, 76 percent of whom arrived during the summer quarter. Family trips – often involving larger groups – as well as guests traveling for medical reasons and shopping enthusiasts made up the majority of visitors. The average length of stay was 13 days – primarily in Munich and the nearby Alpine region. With approximately 400,000 overnight stays by visitors from the Arab region, the city of Munich remains one of Europe’s leading destinations.
