'GoSleep’ Sleeping Pods And Other Micro-Hotels For Weary Travelers

The next time you transfer through Abu Dhabi International Airport, don’t be surprised to find a bizarre collection of futuristic “sleeping pods” lined up like eggs in a crate.

Ten of the $12.25-per-hour pods now reside in Terminal 3, along with 10 more in the Al Dhabi Lounge at Terminal 1.

Inside each capsule, travelers with a penchant for napping right in the middle of the terminal can find a fully enclosed chair that converts into a private flat bed, along with sliding shades that seal out airport noise, light and crowds.

Three-dozen more “GoSleep” pods will be installed across the airport later this year, and all will be outfitted with Internet access; storage space for luggage and valuables; and a power source for laptops, mobile phones and other electronic devices.

“We find the rates a little expensive, but if you’re in need of a couple of hours of much-needed sleep or just want to escape from the noise and hustle and bustle, it will definitely be cheaper than a hotel room in this pricey city,” Amy Tokic of the blog Sleeping in Airports noted. “They only fit one person, so the GoSleep Pods are best for individual travelers -- families and randy couples that are looking for a little airport nookie are out of luck.”

Abu Dhabi Airports Company, or ADAC, called the Finnish-designed sleeping pods an exclusive “world first.”

“ADAC is proud that it is the first airport in the world to have secured an agreement to install the very latest passenger experience that embraces the latest technology,” ADAC CCO Mohammed Al Bulooki said. “The installment of these innovative new convertible chairs highlights ADAC’s commitment to using the latest technologies to improve airport facilities, ensuring that passengers have the best experience.”

Skytrax recently awarded Abu Dhabi International a four-star rating, a first for the region, while Airport Council International named Abu Dhabi the “Best Airport in the Middle East” last month.

The UAE hub isn't the only airport introducing novel ways to serve travelers burdened by layovers. Scroll through the slideshow above for a look at other micro-hotels popping up at airports across the globe.