Flying High with Emirates Airlines: Your Guide to the Premier Carrier of the United Arab Emirates

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The United Arab Emirates, a rising star among the countries of the Middle East, is home to the acclaimed Emirates Airlines. As the flag carrier for the UAE, Emirates has become globally synonymous with luxury air travel and excellent service. In its relatively short time in operation (the airline was founded in 1985), Emirates has accumulated numerous awards and accolades attesting to its status as one of the world’s best airlines.

For travelers looking to fly to or from the United Arab Emirates, Emirates Airlines should be at the top of your list. With extensive routes across six continents, spacious and comfortable cabins, gourmet dining, and amenities like onboard lounges and showers, Emirates aims to make every flight feel like a special experience. Read on to learn all about Emirates Airlines and how to make the most of traveling with this premier Middle Eastern carrier.

An Introduction to Emirates Airlines

Emirates Airlines was founded in 1985, with flights beginning in 1986. It is based in Dubai and currently operates a fleet of over 250 wide-body aircraft from three major hubs: Dubai International Airport, Dubai World Central, and Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport. The airline currently flies to over 150 destinations across North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

As the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Emirates works closely with the country’s Ministry of Economy Planning. However, it operates largely independently of government subsidies, setting it apart from many other national carriers. Emirates Airlines is also a subsidiary of The Emirates Group, a Dubai-based conglomerate with diverse business interests ranging from aviation to financial services.

Since its founding, Emirates Airlines has experienced rapid growth, quickly expanding its fleet and destinations. It has developed a reputation for excellent service, luxurious amenities, and trend-setting aircraft cabins like the A380 superjumbo and Boeing 777 models in its fleet. Emirates prides itself on “Fly Better” being more than just a slogan. The airline aims to make every flight a special experience for passengers through superior offerings both in the air and on the ground.

Contacting Emirates Airlines

Emirates Airlines can be contacted through the following channels:

  • Website: Go to the United Arab Emirates Official Website
  • Phone: Customers can call their local Emirates office. Numbers are available for most countries.
  • Social Media: Emirates has active accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn. Messages can be sent via these platforms.
  • Airport Ticket Desks and Lounges: Customers can also speak to Emirates staff at ticketing counters and lounges located in most major airports.
  • In-flight: Travelers onboard can use the in-flight entertainment system or speak to a crew member to relay any requests or feedback.

When contacting Emirates Airlines, have your booking reference number ready for quicker assistance. For bookings made through travel agents, contact your agent first before reaching out to Emirates.

Key Features of Emirates Airlines

Extensive Route Network

With non-stop flights to over 150 destinations, Emirates provides easy access to major global cities across six continents. It operates over 3,600 flights per week with its fleet of Airbus and Boeing wide-body aircraft. Emirates is the world’s largest operator of the iconic double-decker A380 aircraft.

The airline’s hub in Dubai provides connections to key destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia/New Zealand. Emirates is also a leading carrier for travel to the United States, with non-stop flights to 12 American cities.

Luxurious Cabins Across All Classes

Emirates is synonymous with cabin luxury. Even Economy Class seats have generous 32-34” pitch and recline up to 7”. Personal entertainment screens with up to 4,500 channels of movies, TV, music and games are available in every class.

First and business-class passengers can enjoy lie-flat beds, gourmet dining, and amenities like in-seat massages and lounge access. The airline’s A380 and 777 jets also offer onboard showers and lounges exclusively for premium cabin customers. Emirates has set new standards for luxurious inflight experiences.

Award-Winning In-Flight Dining

Dining is an integral part of the Emirates experience. Customers in every class can pre-order gourmet ethnic cuisine and fine wines 24 hours before their flight. First Class menus feature dishes like lobster thermidor and Dom Perignon champagne. There are also Social Areas on A380s where customers can gather to enjoy refreshments and snacks during the flight.

Emirates has recruited renowned chefs and sommeliers to design meals that embrace flavors from across the globe. It currently carries 11 different wine labels onboard, including Château Cheval Blanc and Château Lafite Rothschild.

Cutting-Edge Inflight Entertainment

Emirates passengers have access to industry-leading entertainment options through the ice inflight entertainment system. ice offers up to 5,000 channels of on-demand movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, games, and more. First and Business class customers get noise-cancelling headphones from Bowers & Wilkins.

ice also features Live TV, allowing passengers to watch news and sports channels like BBC World News and Sport 24 live in-flight. Customers can even browse a digital library of best-selling books, magazines, and newspapers. Emirates continues to push in-flight entertainment to new heights.

Generous Free Baggage Allowance

Emirates offers some of the most generous checked baggage allowances of any airline. Economy Class passengers get up to 35kg for free, while Business and First Class go up to 40kg. You can carry excess baggage at competitive rates. Emirates was one of the first airlines to introduce free baggage delivery on arrival for First and Business Class customers.

With Emirates, you don’t have to compromise on how much luggage you take. Their baggage allowances account for things like sporting equipment, musical instruments, and other special items.

Youngest Long-Haul Fleet

The average age of an Emirates plane is just 6.5 years, making it the world’s youngest long-haul fleet. Modern planes translate to better reliability and fewer mechanical issues. They also have updated amenities and entertainment systems.

Emirates invests over $27 million USD daily to keep its fleet at the cutting edge. It often customizes aircraft interiors to provide the best customer experience. Emirates also has outstanding pilot training and maintenance facilities that are regularly audited for quality. You can trust its modern fleet to provide a safe, comfortable journey.

How to Book Flights on Emirates Airlines

Emirates makes booking flights easy through its user-friendly website and app. Here are some tips for booking your Emirates flight:

  • Use the online booking engine to search flight times and fares. Enter your origin, destination and travel dates.
  • If your travel dates are flexible, use the Flexible Dates option to see fares for nearby dates in a calendar view.
  • Filter flight options by departure time, number of stops, cabin class, price, and more to see the choices match your needs.
  • Select your preferred flight and proceed to choose any extra services like seat selection, meals, baggage allowance, and more.
  • Enter passenger and contact details for all travelers. Emirates allows you to book up to 9 people in one reservation.
  • Choose your payment method. Emirates accepts most major credit and debit cards. You can also pay with certain digital wallets.
  • If booking with miles, you can redeem Skyward Miles on the payment screen. Enter your Emirates Skywards membership details.
  • Review your booking details carefully before confirming. Print or save your booking confirmation containing your PNR and e-ticket number.

Booking directly on Emirates’ website or app is the fastest way to buy flights. You can also book over the phone or use a travel agent. Ensure all passenger names match their government ID documents for check-in.

How to Check-in Online with Emirates

Check in online to avoid airport queues and secure your preferred seat. Here’s how to check in on Emirates:

  • Check-in is available from 48 hours to 90 minutes before your flight. The online check-in deadline is 60 minutes before departure.
  • Go to www.emirates.com or open the airline’s app on your mobile device. Select “Check-in and airport services”.
  • Enter your flight details and booking reference number or e-ticket number. Your booking will be displayed.
  • Select seats for all passengers in your booking. Emirates will try to seat you together by default.
  • Enter required passport and visa information.
  • Select any extra services like excess baggage allowance or meal requests.
  • Accept the terms and conditions. Your boarding pass(es) will be displayed.
  • You can print boarding passes or download digital passes to your phone’s wallet.

Check-in is also available via self-service kiosks at airports. Arrive with ample time to go through immigration and security and proceed to your gate.

Emirates Airlines Baggage Policies and Allowances

Emirates offers generous checked and carry-on baggage allowances for customers traveling in all classes:

Economy Class

  • 35kg checked baggage
  • 1 small bag up to 5kg as carry-on

Business Class

  • 40kg checked allowance
  • 1 small bag + 1 briefcase/laptop bag as carry-on

First Class

  • 50kg checked allowance
  • 1 small bag + 1 briefcase/laptop bag + accessories as carry-on

You can pre-purchase excess baggage up to 100kg per person. Excess charges apply for bags above the free allowance. Carry-on baggage must adhere to size dimensions of 55x38x20 cm.

Special allowances are available for sports equipment, musical instruments and other items. Unaccompanied minors and military passengers also get additional baggage privileges. Customers can save time by using Emirates’ baggage delivery service in Dubai.

Review the baggage policies fully when planning your trip. Pack wisely and utilize Emirates’ generous free allowances to avoid excess luggage costs.

Pet Policies on Emirates Flights

Emirates welcomes service dogs in the cabin free of charge. Prior permission is required. Other pets can travel as accompanied by excess baggage in the aircraft hold. Here are some key pet policies:

  • All pets must be at least 8 weeks old to travel. Livestock cannot be transported.
  • Pet containers must allow the animal to stand upright and turn around. Certain dog breeds have crate size restrictions.
  • Max weight per pet container is 32 kg. Only 2 pets are allowed per flight.
  • A health certificate is required from a licensed vet. Vaccinations must be valid.
  • Charges apply based on the pet’s combined weight and destination.

Get full details on pet policies. Certain dog breeds like pit bulls, pugs, Persian cats and others have restrictions when traveling as cargo. Contact Emirates early when traveling with pets.

Classes of Service on Emirates

Emirates offers three outstanding classes of service across its fleet:

First Class

The industry-leading Emirates First Class suites offer complete luxury and privacy. Available on select routes, these fully enclosed suites have sliding doors, zero-gravity seats, personal minibar and massive entertainment screens. First Class passengers have access to an onboard shower spa and lounge. Gourmet dining, Bulgari amenities and Timeless Spa treatments round out the experience.

Business Class

Emirates’ Business Class cabin features lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, letting every passenger have direct aisle access. Seat width is one of the most generous in Business at 20.5 inches. Select planes have virtual windows and lounge seating at the rear. Business Class dining is multi-course, with wines selected by in-house sommeliers.

Economy Class

Even in Economy, Emirates delivers outstanding service and amenities including up to 34” seat pitch, regionally inspired meals, hundreds of entertainment options, and amenities kits on ultra-long haul routes. Friendly cabin crew provide excellent service throughout the journey.

Emirates delivers exceptional flight experiences regardless of your chosen cabin. You can expect quality service and hospitality across all classes.

Top Reasons to Fly with Emirates Airlines

Here are some of the best reasons for you to choose Emirates for your next trip:

  • Industry-leading amenities: From in-flight showers to lounge seating, Emirates offers luxuries rarely found on other airlines. It sets the bar for premium air travel.
  • Award-winning service: Emirates cabin crew are renowned for their hospitality, providing outstanding and personalized service on every flight.
  • The world’s largest A380 fleet: No airline has more double-decker A380 aircraft. Flying on this quiet, comfortable superjumbo is an unforgettable experience.
  • Gourmet dining in-flight: Food is central to the Emirates experience. Their fine dining options even in Economy Class are unmatched.
  • Cutting-edge IFE systems: ice offers over 5,000 on-demand entertainment options on large HD screens with Noise-Cancelling Headphones.
  • Free chauffeur service: First and Business Class passengers enjoy complimentary chauffeur-driven airport transfers in over 70 global cities.
  • Generous baggage allowance: Emirates offers some of the highest free checked baggage allowances of any airline.
  • Young, modern fleet: Emirates operates one of the youngest aircraft fleets globally at an average age of just 6.5 years.

When you choose to fly Emirates, you can expect a world-class travel experience both in the air and on the ground. Every part of the journey is designed for comfort, convenience and luxury.

Booking Your Flight on Emirates Airlines

  • Use the online booking engine or app to find flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah. You can also connect onwards to Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah or Ajman.
  • If your dates are flexible, try booking a day or two earlier/later for the lowest fares.
  • Emirates offers regular daily flights to the UAE from its worldwide network. Plan for quick connections through Dubai.
  • Choose special meals, preferred seats, extra baggage allowance, lounge access and other services.
  • Add your Emirates Skywards number to earn miles. Join the loyalty program if you don’t have one.
  • Save time at your destination by purchasing a visa or using the baggage delivery service in Dubai.
  • Arrive early before your departure for a smooth airport experience.

Excellent Connectivity to the United Arab Emirates

Once you land at Dubai International Airport (DXB), you’ll find many quick connections to destinations across the UAE:

Dubai – Emirates has direct flights from locations worldwide to Dubai, which serves as its hub. Hop off here to explore this futuristic city.

Abu Dhabi – There are frequent flights between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, allowing fast transfers between the two cities. Abu Dhabi is Emirates’ second gateway.

Sharjah – Sharjah is just minutes from Dubai by road or a quick flight. You can easily visit Sharjah for a cultural getaway.

Fujairah – Fujairah is on the scenic eastern coast. Take a short flight or 90 minute drive from Dubai.

Ajman/Umm Al Quwain – These small emirates are a short drive from Dubai down the coast. Ras Al Khaimah is also nearby.

With Emirates’ regional connectivity, visiting all seven emirates is convenient. The airline’s partnership with flydubai expands your options for inter-emirate travel.

Enjoy Superior Emirates Service To and From the UAE

Once board your Emirates Airlines Flight, you can sit back and relax knowing you’ll arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to explore the UAE. Emirates will take care of you with:

  • Regionally inspired multi-course meals and over 2,500 beverage options
  • Ice inflight entertainment with over 5,000 channels of movies, TV, music and more
  • Complimentary beverages and moist towelettes to keep you refreshed
  • Comfortable seats with generous legroom in every class

Emirates also offers exclusive amenities in First and Business Class like cocktail lounges, in-seat massages and access to world-class airport lounges. You’ll arrive ready for your UAE adventure.

Emirates Skywards – Earn Miles To and From The UAE

Join Emirates’ award-winning frequent flyer program, Skywards, to earn miles for your trips to the United Arab Emirates.

Benefits of Skywards include:

  • Generous miles earning rates, especially in Business and First Class
  • Exclusive member fares and offers
  • Complimentary upgrades and miles transfers
  • Access to Business Class lounges when flying with Emirates
  • Tier bonuses like extra baggage allowance based on your tier status
  • Options to spend miles on hotel stays, car rentals and more

Planning getaways across the seven emirates? Skywards helps you earn miles even faster.

Experience World-Renowned Dubai International Airport

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the primary hub for Emirates Airlines. It’s one of the world’s busiest airports with three terminals spanning over 21 square miles. With frequent flights arriving from six continents, it’s a crossroads of global air travel.

Dubai International offers an array of amenities for travelers including:

  • Premium airport lounges like Emirates Business Class lounge
  • Free WiFi, kids play areas, and quiet zones
  • Shops and restaurants offering global brands and local flavors
  • Hotels, spas, gym/pools to refresh during long connections
  • Short walking distances between concourses

Flights from DXB provide convenient access to all seven emirates. Enjoy all that Dubai’s acclaimed airport has to offer as you journey onwards.

Enjoy World-Class Lounges at UAE Airports

Emirates customers traveling in premium cabins can access luxurious lounges at Dubai International Airport and other UAE airports. Lounges allow you to refresh, dine, work or relax between flights.

Emirates Business Class Lounge – Spanning over 32,000 square feet, the lounge at Concourse B in Dubai features dining with global cuisine, shower spas, conference rooms and more.

Emirates First Class Lounge – Exclusive to First Class flyers and Emirates Platinum members, this lounge offers fine dining, champagne and cigar bar, luxury spa, wine cellar and more.

Marhaba Lounges – These lounges available across UAE airports offer modern amenities for business and leisure travelers.

Add an extra touch of luxury to your connections in Dubai and Abu Dhabi by accessing the Emirates lounge network.

Experience the Magic of the Emirates A380

For an extra memorable flight, book your trip to the UAE on Emirates’ flagship A380 aircraft. Emirates is the world’s largest operator of A380 superjumbos. With over 110 double-decker aircraft in its fleet, you’ll often have the chance to fly the A380 to Dubai and beyond.

Key features of the Emirates A380:

  • Extra quiet and smooth ride due to size and advanced engines
  • Onboard lounge and bar to stretch your legs and socialize
  • Virtual windows and forest meadow scenes in First Class cabins
  • Shower spas and suite privacy in First Class
  • Spacious bars and social areas ideal for connections
  • High ceilings, mood lighting and an open floor plan

Take your Emirates experience up a notch by opting for one of their daily A380 services to and from Dubai and other Emirati cities.

Enjoy Hassle-Free Dubai Connections

Emirates operates a state-of-the-art terminal exclusively for its flights at Dubai International. This allows quick connections through Dubai across the airline’s worldwide network spanning 6 continents.

Transiting Dubai is smooth and hassle-free, with:

  • Short walking distances between planes with no transport needed
  • Easy passport control and security screening for transit passengers
  • Over 4,500 weekly flights to 150 destinations
  • Connections as short as 45 minutes in many cases
  • Free WiFi, lounges and shops to plan quick layovers
  • Dedicated Emirates staff to assist with tight turnarounds

With Emirates’ award-winning service in the air and on the ground, transiting Dubai is one of the world’s best airport experiences.

Arrive Relaxed and Refreshed

Whether you are headed for business or leisure, flying Emirates to the United Arab Emirates helps you arrive feeling relaxed. Indulge in Emirates’ superior service, savor gourmet cuisine and enjoy hours of entertainment at your fingertips.

Make your reservations today to experience the comfort, hospitality and luxury that has made Emirates an award-winning global airline. With frequent flights to destinations across all seven emirates, Emirates makes getting to the UAE smooth and memorable.

Top Destinations and Attractions in the United Arab Emirates

From futuristic skyscrapers to ancient mosques, the United Arab Emirates offers a compelling blend of old and new. Fly Emirates Airlines to explore these exciting destinations across the seven emirates:

Dubai

Dubai is a glittering megacity known for its stunning architecture, luxury experiences, vibrant nightlife and sunny beaches. Top attractions include:

  • Burj Khalifa – World’s tallest building at 2,700+ feet tall with observation decks
  • Dubai Mall – One of the world’s largest shopping malls with 1200+ stores
  • Palm Jumeirah – Famous man-made archipelago in the Persian Gulf with luxury hotels
  • Dubai Creek – Historic harbor and dhow cruise location divided by Deira and Bur Dubai
  • Dubai Museum – Learn about Dubai’s history and culture at this museum in Al Fahidi Fort
  • Dubai Aquarium – Massive tank housing 140 species of aquatic life, located in Dubai Mall
  • Dubai Miracle Garden – Whimsical seasonal garden display with millions of flowers and sculptures

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi serves as the UAE’s capital and a major oil hub. Key sites include:

  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – Iconic white marble mosque with capacity for over 40,000 worshippers
  • Louvre Abu Dhabi – Spectacular art museum with exhibits spanning world cultures and history
  • Ferrari World – Indoor amusement park with record-breaking rollercoasters and Ferrari test drives
  • Yas Island – Top destination for recreation and nightlife with parks, attractions, hotels and Yas Marina Circuit
  • Emirates Palace – Stunning beachfront luxury property often called one of the most expensive hotels ever built
  • Qasr Al Watan Palace – Lavish presidential palace offering tours of the extravagant architecture and grounds

Sharjah

Sharjah balances tradition and modernity as the cultural capital of the UAE. Must-sees include:

  • Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization – Learn about Islamic heritage at this architecturally stunning museum
  • Al Noor Island – Scenic butterfly-shaped island with art displays, botanical gardens, cafes and design shops
  • Al Qasba – Vibrant canal-side destination with an amphitheater, restaurants, musical fountain shows and entertainment
  • Sharjah Art Museum – Prestigious museum with 20+ galleries of art from the region and around the world
  • Sharjah Archaeology Museum – Traces UAE’s history from prehistoric times through the Islamic era with artifacts and dioramas
  • Sharjah Heritage Museum – Traditional Emirati reconstructed homes showcase local living culture and history

Al Ain

Al Ain offers a taste of Arabia with its lush oases, ancient forts and archaeological sites. Don’t miss:

  • Jebel Hafeet – Impressive rocky mountain overlooking Al Ain, with scenic drives and hiking trails
  • Jahili Fort and Palace – 19th-century fort with history exhibits and restored palace displaying Emirati courtly life
  • Al Ain Oasis – Vast palm oasis with over 150,000 date palms fed by ancient falaj irrigation systems
  • Qasr Al Muwaiji – Restored hilltop palace and fortress offering tours and insight into Bedouin ancestry
  • Hili Archaeological Park – Sites and ruins preserving evidence of ancient civilizations that once flourished in the region
  • Wadi Adventure Park – Splash in pools and rapids, ride zip lines or drive ATVs through the desert landscape

Ajman and Umm Al Quwain

These smaller emirates offer natural vistas and family-friendly recreation. Top picks include:

Ajman

  • Ajman Museum in the 18th-century Al Zawiyah Fort
  • Ajman Saray Luxury Collection Resort with a private beach
  • The tranquil Al Zorah Nature Reserve mangrove forest

Umm Al Quwain

  • Dreamland Aqua Park – Massive water park with over 30 rides and attractions
  • UAQ Museum showcasing Emirati history and archeology
  • Umm Al Quwain Beach and Mangrove Lagoon for water sports

Planning Your Trip to the United Arab Emirates with Emirates

The United Arab Emirates offers an ideal blend of culture, adventure, retail therapy, beaches and beyond. Fly Emirates Airlines for a world-class journey, arriving relaxed and ready to explore these dynamic destinations. Here are some tips for planning your Emirates trip to the UAE:

Booking Your Flight

  • Book early for the lowest fares, especially during peak seasons like holidays and Formula 1 racing events.
  • Search Emirates’ website for deals on Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other UAE routes. Set up fare alerts.
  • Use flexible dates and the Multi-city search to build complex UAE itineraries across the seven emirates.
  • Pick your Emirates aircraft – A380s offer ultra-comfort while Boeing 777s have mood-lit cabins.
  • Use the booking engine to select seats, meals and extras tailored to your trip.

Your Emirates Cabin Experience

  • Emirates offers award-winning comfort, cuisine and hospitality in every class. First and business-class cabins are ideal for indulging on UAE trips.
  • On ultra-long-haul flights to Dubai, freshen up with a shower spa at 40,000 feet in Emirates’ A380 First Class suites.
  • Savor gourmet cuisine paired with vintage wines like the exclusive Bordeaux served in First Class.
  • Enjoy hours of entertainment and live TV via Emirates’ massive personal screens.

Transiting Dubai

  • Take advantage of Emirates’ ultra-efficient Dubai hub to connect to global destinations.
  • Relax in Emirates’ luxurious airport lounges like the Concourse A First Class lounge during connections.
  • Explore Dubai’s shopping, dining and amenities during long layovers of 10+ hours. Emirates offers Dubai Stopover packages.

Arriving Prepared

  • Check visa requirements for your country and apply/pay for UAE tourist visas via Emirates.
  • Skip airport queues by using Emirates baggage delivery service in Dubai for First and Business Class passengers.
  • Pack ahead and take advantage of generous Emirates baggage allowances – up to 35kg free checked allowance in Economy.
  • Activate your complimentary airport chauffeur with Emirates to be driven to your accommodation upon arrival and departure.

Seeing the Sights

  • There are two ideal times to visit – from October to April (cooler weather) or in November/December (pleasant with festive cheer).
  • The UAE offers modern luxury but also respects local culture and modest dress in historic sites, mosques etc.
  • Use Big Bus Dubai, public transport, or a rental car to get around. Taxis are also affordable and plentiful.
  • Check calendars ahead for major events like Dubai Shopping Festivals, art festivals, sporting events and more to coincide with.

Emirates provides award-winning comfort and hospitality while connecting you to the UAE’s top destinations. Fly Emirates for a world-class travel experience.

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