Is Emirates a good airline?
Yes, Emirates is widely considered one of the best airlines in the world—and for good reason. With a reputation built on luxury, exceptional service, and a strong global network, Emirates consistently ranks among the top airlines globally. Here’s a breakdown of why many travelers rate it so highly:
1. World-Class Service
One of Emirates’ biggest strengths is its in-flight service. From friendly and multilingual cabin crew to attentive customer support, the airline places a strong emphasis on hospitality. Passengers are greeted warmly, meals are served with a smile, and crew members are trained to accommodate different cultural expectations.
2. Exceptional In-Flight Experience
Emirates sets a high standard when it comes to the onboard experience:
Entertainment: Emirates’ ICE (Information, Communication, Entertainment) system has won multiple awards. With over 4,500 channels of movies, TV shows, music, and games, passengers rarely get bored.
Comfort: Even in Economy Class, seats are spacious and well-cushioned. Business and First Class passengers enjoy lie-flat beds, privacy pods, and onboard lounges (on select A380 aircraft).
Wi-Fi & Connectivity: Many Emirates flights offer onboard Wi-Fi and charging ports, making it easier to stay connected.
3. Quality Food & Beverages
Meal quality on Emirates is well above average. Passengers are served regionally inspired meals, often with options to choose from, along with complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. In premium cabins, the dining experience rivals that of a fine-dining restaurant.
4. Modern Fleet
Emirates operates one of the youngest and most modern fleets in the world, consisting mainly of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s. This translates to quieter cabins, better fuel efficiency, and increased safety and comfort. The A380s in particular offer a very smooth ride with advanced features like onboard showers in First Class.
5. Extensive Global Network
Based in Dubai, Emirates flies to over 150 destinations in more than 80 countries, making it a convenient option for international travelers. Whether you’re heading to Europe, the Americas, Asia, or Africa, chances are Emirates has a route for you.
6. Competitive Pricing for Luxury
Despite its reputation as a premium airline, Emirates often provides competitive fares, especially when booked in advance. This means travelers can enjoy a luxury flying experience without paying sky-high prices compared to other full-service airlines.
7. Awards & Recognition
Emirates has won numerous awards over the years, including:
Skytrax “World’s Best Airline” (multiple times)
Best Inflight Entertainment
Best First Class & Business Class cabins (by several travel publications)
8. Areas to Consider
While Emirates has a strong overall reputation, some travelers may find:
Long layovers in Dubai if they are not continuing to a direct destination.
Overbooked flights during peak travel seasons.
Pricing fluctuations, especially during holiday periods.
Who Owns Emirates?
Emirates Airline is a state-owned enterprise. It is wholly owned by the government of Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The ownership is structured through the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), which was established in 2006 to manage the government’s commercial assets and investments. Emirates is part of the Emirates Group, which also includes other aviation-related businesses like dnata, a global air services provider.
A Brief History of Ownership:
Founded in 1985, Emirates was established with support from the Dubai royal family, especially under the guidance of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The airline was created to boost tourism and trade in Dubai and reduce dependency on oil.
While the initial investment was small (just $10 million), the Dubai government gave Emirates full freedom to operate without political interference, while ensuring it remained financially self-sustaining.
Is Emirates a Government Airline?
Yes, but with a unique approach:
Although Emirates is government-owned, it operates commercially, with a strong focus on profitability and customer service.
It does not receive ongoing government subsidies (unlike many national carriers globally).
This model has allowed Emirates to grow rapidly into one of the world’s largest and most respected international airlines.
How do I contact Emirates customer service?
Getting in touch with Emirates customer service is easy and can be done through multiple channels depending on your location and preference. Whether you have a question about your booking, need assistance with a refund, want to change your flight, or require support for any travel-related issue, Emirates offers several options to help:
1. Call Emirates Customer Service
Emirates has dedicated phone support available worldwide. You can:
Visit the Emirates website and go to the “Help” or “Contact Us” section.
Select your country or region to view the correct contact number.
Customer service is typically available 24/7, especially for major markets like the UAE, USA, UK, and India.
2. Live Chat on Emirates Website
You can speak to a live agent directly through the Emirates website:
Go to www.emirates.com.
Scroll down and click on “Help and Contacts”.
Select Live Chat, and a virtual assistant (and eventually a human agent) will assist you.
3. Email or Contact Form
Emirates also provides a contact form for submitting queries such as:
Refund requests
Lost baggage
Feedback and complaints
You can find the form here: Emirates Online Help
4. Social Media Support
Emirates is active on social platforms and responds quickly to customer queries:
Twitter: @emiratesSupport
Facebook: facebook.com/emirates
Instagram: @emirates
You can DM or comment with your concerns.
5. Visit a Local Emirates Office
For in-person assistance, visit an Emirates ticketing or service office in your city. Locations and office hours are listed on their website under the “Find Offices” section.
How to book Emirates?
Booking a flight with Emirates is a straightforward and user-friendly process, whether you prefer doing it online, via mobile app, through a travel agent, or at the airport. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you book your next trip with Emirates:
1. Visit the Emirates Website or App
Start by going to the official Emirates website or downloading the Emirates mobile app (available for Android and iOS). The online platform is intuitive and allows you to search, compare, and book flights in just a few steps.
2. Enter Your Travel Details
Fill in the required fields on the homepage:
From and To destinations (city or airport)
Travel Dates (one-way or round-trip)
Number of Passengers (adults, children, infants)
Cabin Class (Economy, Premium Economy, Business, or First Class)
Click “Search Flights” to view available options.
3. Compare and Select Your Flight
Once the available flights appear, you can:
Filter by price, timing, duration, or stopovers
View fare conditions and inclusions (baggage, meal, seat selection)
Compare different cabin classes
After reviewing, click “Select” next to your preferred flight.
4. Customize Your Booking (Optional)
Emirates allows passengers to customize their travel experience:
Choose your seat
Add extra baggage
Select special meals
Enroll in Emirates Skywards (if not already a member) to earn miles
5. Provide Passenger Information
Fill in the required personal details for each traveler:
Full name (as per passport)
Date of birth
Nationality
Passport details
Contact information (email and mobile number)
Make sure all details are accurate to avoid issues during check-in.
6. Make Payment
Proceed to the payment section and choose your preferred method:
Credit/Debit Card
PayPal (in some countries)
Bank Transfer (in select regions)
UPI, Wallets, or Net Banking (in India and other supported areas)
Emirates offers secure payment gateways and may allow you to hold the fare for a short period (usually 24-72 hours) if you’re not ready to pay immediately.
7. Receive Booking Confirmation
After successful payment, you’ll receive a booking confirmation email with:
E-ticket number
Flight itinerary
Check-in and baggage details
You can manage your booking anytime through the Emirates website or app.
