Before you board: OR Tambo’s award-winning airport lounge is worth arriving early for

Travellers departing from Johannesburg have access to one of the region’s best airport lounges. Bidvest Premier Lounge at OR Tambo International Airport’s Domestic Terminal B has been crowned Regional Lounge of the Year for the Middle East and Africa in the 2026 Priority Pass Excellence Awards. 

The annual awards celebrate outstanding airport lounges, with winners chosen from hundreds of thousands of verified ratings and reviews submitted by Priority Pass members. More than 700 000 member reviews were used to compile this year’s rankings, recognising lounges that consistently deliver exceptional service and a high-quality travel experience. 

After passing through security in Domestic Terminal B, travellers can unwind at the Bidvest Premier Lounge away from the busy departure hall. With complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, charging stations, comfortable seating, business facilities and flight information screens, the lounge has become a favourite among both business and leisure travellers. 

Airport lounges may seem like an exclusive perk for business-class passengers, but they aren’t exclusively reserved for premium cabin passengers. Access is available to Priority Pass members, while some bank cards and travel loyalty programmes also include complimentary visits. Travellers without a lounge membership can also pay for access directly, subject to availability. Walk-in prices for domestic travellers starting from R300. 

The award is another reason for travellers to arrive at OR Tambo a little earlier before their next flight. Whether you’re heading to Cape Town for the weekend or Johannesburg, setting off on a longer trip, you can start your journey in an airport lounge officially recognised as the best in the Middle East and Africa.

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