Dubai to Washington Dulles

United Airlines UA977 | DXB/IAD
Business Class
Boeing 777-200ER | N223UA
Lounge: Marhaba Lounge

Once past security, I made a beeline for United's contracted Marhaba lounge hoping to shower as I was sweaty and sticky from my short time in Dubai. I was disappointed to find that the lounge did not feature showers. It was a dingy, crowded lounge but at least there was a hot food selection and cold beer. I wolfed down some noodles and rice and curry and two beers.

I headed to the gate at around 11pm as I had been warned that there was extra security there. True enough, there was a long line waiting for the full hand luggage search and pat down. Boarding started soon after, and after my supper (a very good chicken briyani) I reclined my seat into bed mode and conked out for almost eight hours! United's business class seat, though narrow, is very conducive for sleeping. The only drawback was that the guy in the middle seat had to climb over me to get to the toilet. In some ways, this cabin layout reminded me of a dorm room.

The rest of the flight went smoothly and before long we landed at Dulles. After clearing US immigration, it was home sweet home for me!Read more