Dubai International said it has become the first airport in the region to introduce modular sleeping pods that offer comfort, privacy, entertainment and connectivity for passengers.

Called SnoozeCube, each of the accommodation units contains a full-sized bed, a touch-screen television offering a selection of entertainment and music, as well as high speed internet access.

Most importantly, the units are connected to the flight information system to ensure that amidst the rest and relaxation, passengers do not miss their flights at the world’s fourth busiest airport for international passenger traffic.

As many as ten of the sound-proofed units have been installed adjacent to Gate 122 at Dubai International’s Terminal 1 and are already proving to be a major attraction, said a top Dubai Airport official.

Commenting on the launch, Eugene Barry, VP Commercial at Dubai Airports said, “We are always looking at ways to enhance the level of comfort and indeed the overall customer experience at Dubai International.  The SnoozeCube is certain to have a positive effect on both.”

The creator of SnoozeCube, Larry Swann said that Dubai’s desire to be the first airport to install the system was a reflection of the emirate's vision to continually enhance the travellers’ experience, particularly at  its points of entry and departure.

“Adopting innovative ideas has helped keep Dubai at the forefront of the travel and tourism industries,” said Swann.

“And the SnoozeCube is the perfect fit. Having researched airports around the world I realised that the travel experience can be enhanced by providing passengers a place to rest that is convenient, affordable, comfortable and safe,” he added.

During the pilot phase, the SnoozeCube had been an instant hit with passengers at the airport particularly among transfer/transit passengers with shorter layover times.

It can be used on an hourly basis with rates starting from Dh65 ($17.80) per hour for the first four hours.

Designed and built in New Zealand, the launch of the SnoozeCube is a further endorsement of  the country’s reputation for creating high quality, innovative products according to Dubai-based Steve Jones, New Zealand Trade Commissioner for Middle East, Africa and Pakistan.

'Given our country’s strong culture of innovation, resourcefulness and creativity in business it’s not surprising the SnoozeCube has been created by a New Zealander,' Jones remarked.

'We are confident SnoozeCube will become a familiar name for the millions of passengers travelling to Dubai and in other airports around the world in the months and years to come,” he added.-TradeArabia News Service