Review: Bidvest Airport Lounge – OR Tambo International

On 04 January 2026, prior to my international flight from OR Tambo International Airport to Lagos, I visited the Bidvest Airport Lounge (International Departures). As an ABSA Private Bank member, I am entitled to access these lounges for refreshments and a comfortable waiting environment.

The lounge was severely understaffed and completely failed to provide a basic level of service. There were long queues for service, making it impossible to relax or enjoy the facilities.

More concerning was the state of cleanliness. Dirty crockery and cutlery were left on tables and seating areas, clearly from previous patrons, creating an untidy and unhygienic environment.

This reflects extremely poor management, inadequate staffing levels, and unacceptable service standards, particularly for a premium lounge associated with major banking clients. The experience was disappointing and well below what is advertised or expected.