Information on Emirates Flights

Emirates is one of those rare airlines that’s almost universally praised for its customer service, luxury, and overall passenger experience. One of two flag carriers for the United Arab Emirates, it also has earned dozens of prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards. Emirates business and first class cabins, known for their luxurious touches and unparalleled experience, are among the most sought-after spaces in commercial aviation. But economy delivers too, thanks to perks like top-notch entertainment and cutting-edge technology. Emirates is my preferred airline whenever I fly to or through the Middle East. Here, my tips on making the most of your next flight.

Emirates’ large network and large aircraft

With its hub at Dubai International Airport (DXB), Emirates boasts an impressively wide network, with more than 130 destinations across the Americas, Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, and the Middle East. And it’s virtually guaranteed you’ll be flying in a spacious widebody aircraft, even on short flights. That’s because Emirates is the largest operator of the Airbus A380 – an avgeek darling with a double-decker design that can hold approximately 600 (or more!) passengers – and Boeing 777 aircraft.

Consider Emirates’ fifth freedom flights

Most routes connect through DXB. But don’t forget about fifth freedom flights: Aviation-speak for routes that an airline services between two destinations outside its origin country. Emirates operates several fifth freedom routes, which currently include two transatlantic ones: Newark (EWR) to Athens (ATH) and New York JFK (JFK) to Milan Malpensa (MXP).

If you’re headed to Greece or Italy from the New York area, I highly recommend checking these out. You’ll have the chance to experience Emirates’ renowned onboard experience – and perhaps even fly on the iconic A380 – without connecting through the Middle East. (Even better: If you can score an upgrade to business class.)

Take advantage of Emirates’ user-friendly website and app

Emirates’ online booking experience offers a smooth, user-friendly experience. It’s a cinch to search for flights by date and/or destination and compare prices between cabins and ticket categories. You’ll find more of the same efficiency and functionality on Emirates’ app, which has ten of thousands of four-star and above reviews.

Once you select a flight, a clear graphic format displays the differences between fare categories and what’s included in each. (For example, baggage allowances and other included extras on Flex and Flex Plus in economy class).

The website and app also feature several handy extras I recommend familiarizing yourself with. First, the “Best Fare Finder” feature is an incredibly helpful tool that displays fares in an easy-to-read format that lets you quickly scan which months and days are cheapest. Emirates runs regular deals, too, including student discounts. Finally, after booking, you can take a sneak peek at onboard menus to see what you can look forward to digging into on your flight.

If your flight has a long layover in Dubai, you may be eligible for a free hotel stay and other travel expenses. Through a service called Dubai Connect, Emirates will cover a hotel, transfers, and applicable meals, as well as a visa to enter the UAE. Dubai Connect is only available to passengers with a connecting time of between eight and 26 hours for economy or premium economy cabins; for business and first, it’s between six and 26 hours. It’s important to note the service is only offered when there is no earlier connection available.

What to expect in Emirates economy cabin

Emirates economy tickets usually come in as one of the more expensive options among other carriers. But you’ll get plenty of bang for your buck: Whether you’re flying on an A380 or Boeing 777 aircraft, you can count on comfy seats with a standard 32 inches of legroom, tasty meals, and arguably the best entertainment options in the sky.

The carrier also boasts one of the world’s most generous checked baggage policies for economy passengers. All economy tickets include at least one checked and carry-on bag, which is a welcome perk considering how many airlines now charge for this. Be sure to check the website beforehand to see what’s included for your fare and route.

Pro tip: Because Emirates aircraft can accommodate so many passengers, I highly recommend allowing extra time to check in if you’re flying economy and don’t have status. Even if you’ve already checked in on the app, you’ll likely still need to show your passport to receive a boarding pass.

Emirates Premium Economy: Best in class

If Emirates’ coveted front-of-plane cabins are out of reach, consider Emirates’ premium economy, which delivers an outstanding experience of its own. Cost-wise, it’s often significantly pricier than what economy seats cost (but far less than business). However, you can find deals, too: I recently saw a premium economy ticket from Europe to Dubai for approximately $100 more than economy.

Yet the experience rivals what’s offered in business or even first on some other airlines. I highly recommend considering Emirates premium economy for long-haul routes, which let you take advantage of all the upscale perks.

Seats, which are made of cream-colored leather and outfitted with cushy pillows, are arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration. They include a roomy 40-inch pitch and 19.5-inch width. You’ll get a generous eight inches of recline, a cushioned leg rest and a headrest that adjusts several ways. All of which makes it much easier to snag some shuteye (something I struggle with on long flights).

Emirates Premium Economy dining: two thumbs up

The dining experience is on par with business and first class. Gourmet dinners come with a starter, salad, main, and dessert, accompanied by a notable wine pairing, including Chandon sparkling wine (and perhaps even exclusive vintages from first). All meals are served on china, accompanied by linen and stainless steel cutlery (no plastic plates here!).

Tray tables that set a new standard

Another standout feature I especially appreciate: Instead of an awkward tray table that folds into the seat in front of you, Emirates premium economy seats feature sleek, wood grain dining tables that fold conveniently into your own seat area.

In addition to how elegant they look, functionality is superior. No more worrying about the passenger in front of you slamming their seat back during meal service. No more of that annoying banging on the back of your own seat from the passenger behind you putting their tray table up or down. I really wish more airlines would adopt smart design like this – it’s a win-win for everyone and makes long flights so much more pleasant.

Emirates business and first class cabins: Unmatched luxury

Flying Emirates first class (or even business) is a bucket list item I have yet to check off. It’s world class all the way around: multi-course gourmet meals with rare wine pairings; private suites that make long-haul trips a pleasure; and, of course, Emirates’ stellar customer service at every step along the way.

Of course, these exclusive experiences come with a price. And it’s no surprise that these cabins are wildly popular among business passengers. However, with some careful planning, you might be able to get access through miles or points redemptions (more on that below).

Emirates lounges: A posh pre-flight experience

I’ve only been lucky enough to experience an Emirates business class lounge once. Before flying to Amsterdam, I had the privilege of enjoying one of seven lounges at DXB – which was the fanciest I’ve ever set foot in. A few highlights: shower rooms; a kids’ play area; several distinct food stations; and a Möet Champagne bar serving up flutes of complimentary bubbles. This is the kind of rarefied space I’d visit even if I wasn’t waiting for a flight.

Lounge access comes with business and first class tickets, of course. But if you’re a member of Emirates’ Skywards loyalty program, you can purchase a pass for slightly cheaper. If your flight originates or connects in Dubai, I highly recommend treating yourself to start your trip in luxe style – and arrive the full four hours early to make the most of it.

How to earn miles on Skywards, Emirates’ loyalty program

Even if you don’t fly Emirates often, I recommend signing up for Skywards. Not only will you accumulate points on flights, you can also transfer points to your Skywards account to start working toward redemptions (or those coveted upgrades) on flights. Skywards has four elite status tiers, from Blue (general members) to top-tier Platinum.

One option for redemptions: utilizing partner airlines including United, Air Canada, and Alaska Airlines. Be sure to check the Emirates’ website for a full list of partners, and keep in mind that some partners offer a better rate than others. (Condor, for example, lets you earn up to 2.15 Skywards miles per mile flown.)

In addition, miles can be transferred on a 1:1 basis to Emirates from several major credit card programs, including American Express, Capital One, Chase, and Citi. (You can also transfer on a 3:1 basis from Marriott Bonvoy and other partners, though rates vary.)

Another unique feature of Skywards: It offers a feature that lets you pool miles with your family as a way to earn rewards faster. It’s a cinch to create a family account and choose the percentage of points you’ll direct toward that account.

If you frequently fly Emirates, I recommend considering one of several co-branded credit cards that let you earn miles directly. And finally, don’t forget to check Emirates’ website for deals on Skywards bookings such as double Skywards points on certain routes – another easy way to build up points so you can fly for less on this top-notch carrier.