The Guide to Emirates Premium Economy

At first glance, Emirates Airlines — perhaps best known for its first-class luxury suites that can include access to an onboard shower — might not appeal to the comfort-seeking flyer with less to spend. But recent news has been positive for those passengers who desire a mid-tier flight experience.

Does Emirates have a premium economy? Yes — the airline introduced a premium economy cabin in 2021 on some of its Airbus A380 aircraft. Emirates premium economy is currently offered to a select number of destinations, with the number of routes increasing in the coming months.

Learn about the Emirates premium economy experience, including eligible routes, typical costs and what to expect when you fly.

One of the main benefits of flying Emirates premium economy is the extra space compared to economy. For example, Emirates premium economy seats offer 40 inches of legroom pitch and a seat that's 19.5 inches wide. On the other hand, economy seats provide 32 to 34 inches of legroom pitch and are 17.5 inches wide.

Emirates premium economy also offers 8 inches of recline, which is especially helpful if you're trying to nap on a long-haul flight.

The seats themselves are leather and cream-colored and include a wood-grain table.

» Learn more: The guide to Emirates Skywards

Emirates says it offers an "elevated dining experience" in premium economy with the same wine list available to business-class passengers. In addition, Emirates prides itself on having menus that change monthly and are based on destination-inspired flavors.

Emirates provides a sample premium economy menu, which includes:

• Wines. Chandon Brut Vintage (2012), Laurenz V. Charming Gruner Veltiner (2016) and Chapoutier Tournon Shays Flat Shiraz (2014).

• Breakfast. A classic omelet served with sauteed mushrooms, roasted potatoes and spinach, fresh seasonal fruit and a choice of bread.

• Snacks. Vegetarian pizza, fruits and snack bars.

• Dinner. Thai pepper beef or grilled chicken, with an antipasti salad appetizer and coconut sago pudding for dessert.

If you have any allergies or dietary requirements, you can request a special meal up to 24 hours before your flight using the "Manage Your Booking" feature on the Emirates website.

In addition to the extra space, several other amenities and perks come with flying Emirates premium economy, including:

• A 13.3-inch in-flight entertainment screen.

• A cushioned leg rest and an adjustable headrest.

• Large pillows and soft blankets, designed explicitly for premium economy.

• A reusable amenity kit.

• A side cocktail table and charging ports.

One of our favorite perks of flying Emirates premium economy is its location towards the front of the aircraft, meaning you'll exit before economy passengers (which can be very helpful if you have a tight connection or are trying to avoid a long wait in customs).

» Learn more: How to make the most of Emirates economy class

Current routes are available between Dubai and:

• Auckland, New Zealand.

• Christchurch, New Zealand.

• Houston (starting June 2023).

• London.

• Los Angeles (starting July 2023).

• Melbourne, Australia.

• New York.

• Paris.

• San Francisco.

• Singapore.

• Sydney.

» Learn more: What to know before flying Emirates first class

The cost of an Emirates premium economy ticket will vary depending on dates and routes. Still, we were able to find numerous premium economy tickets from Dubai, including routes such as:

• Dubai to Paris from about $2,100 to $2,400 round trip (compared to $800-$880 in economy).

• Sydney to Dubai from around $2,300 and $3,100 round-trip (compared to $1,200-$1,400 in economy).

Based on this, you should generally expect to pay about double the cost of an economy ticket for Emirates premium economy.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

Currently, it's not possible to book Emirates premium economy using Emirates Skywards miles.

That said, we recommend checking the Emirates website for award bookings before booking your flight, as this could always change.

» Learn more: How to book Emirates first class with points

Emirates' new premium economy cabin includes spacious seats and an elevated dining experience that will enhance your travel experience compared to flying economy class.

Although Emirates premium economy costs around double the price of an economy ticket, it may be worth the added expense if you'd like to add a bit of luxury and comfort to your flight experience. You'll get to use the extra recline, a leg rest, specially-designed pillows, and blankets to arrive well-rested at your destination.

Featured image courtesy of Emirates.