Updated September 2026.
Emirates First Class remains one of aviation’s most recognisable premium cabins. Private suites, dine on demand service and strong ground facilities create a memorable journey. The exact experience depends heavily on the aircraft and route.
Our photographs show the older Emirates A380 suite. Its minibar, privacy doors, flat bed and Shower Spa remain relevant on equipped A380 flights. Boeing 777 suites differ, and the 777 has no shower.
Emirates First Class: Key Details
- Aircraft: selected Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 services
- Seating: private suites with fully flat beds
- Dining: dine on demand with route specific menus
- Shower Spa: only on equipped A380 aircraft
- Onboard Lounge: only on equipped A380 aircraft
- Ground experience: premium check in, lounges and eligible Chauffeur Drive
- UAE telephone: +971 600 555 555
- Official guide: Emirates First Class
The Ground Experience in Dubai
Dubai Terminal 3 has dedicated premium facilities. Emirates opened its newer Emirates First check in area in July 2025 for First Class customers.
Eligible passengers can use First Class lounges. Facilities vary by concourse but may include dining, quiet areas, showers and direct boarding at selected gates.
Cooked to order breakfast was a highlight of our original departure. Direct lounge boarding was also convenient, though it is not offered at every gate.
The Private Suite
Our older A380 suite used a 1 2 1 layout. It had privacy doors, a minibar, storage, a large screen and a separate controller. Crew converted the seat into a fully flat bed with added bedding.
Current layouts vary. Some 777 aircraft have eight suites in a 1 2 1 arrangement. The limited Game Changer fleet uses six enclosed suites in a 1 1 1 layout. Check the seat map, but remember that an aircraft swap can occur.
Dining and Service
Dining is served on demand rather than through one fixed meal window. Our flight included attentive service, a polished table setting and Arabic mezze.
Menu selections can run out. Tell the crew early if one dish matters to you. Request special meals before the airline’s deadline.
A380 Shower Spa and Lounge
The A380 Shower Spa is a defining feature. Book a shower time with the crew soon after boarding because popular periods fill quickly.
The A380 lounge is shared by First and Business Class passengers. It offers seating, a staffed bar and snacks. Neither feature is available on the Boeing 777.
Chauffeur Drive and Miles
Chauffeur Drive is available with eligible Emirates operated First Class tickets in participating cities. It is not included with Skywards First Class Classic Reward tickets.
Partner tickets and some upgrades can also be excluded. Check eligibility inside Manage Your Booking.
A direct Economy to First Class upgrade is generally not offered as one step. Upgrade choices depend on the original fare and cabin availability.
Which Aircraft Should You Choose?
- Choose the A380 for the Shower Spa and Onboard Lounge.
- Choose the Game Changer 777 for maximum suite privacy.
- Check the seat map because 777 layouts vary.
- Expect possible aircraft changes close to departure.
Related Emirates Reviews
Compare our Emirates Business Class review, Emirates Premium Economy review and Emirates lounge review in Munich and Frankfurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every Emirates First Class flight have a shower?
No. The Shower Spa is limited to equipped A380 aircraft.
Is every suite fully enclosed?
No. Privacy and design vary. The Game Changer 777 offers the most enclosed suite.
Is Chauffeur Drive included with reward tickets?
It is not included with Skywards First Class Classic Rewards. Other exclusions apply.
The Brief Review Verdict
Emirates First Class is outstanding when the right aircraft matches the route. The A380 offers the broadest experience, while the newer 777 provides greater privacy. Check the aircraft and fare rules before paying the premium.
Original Flight Observations
Original Flight Details
Tel: +971 600 555 555
Website:Â EmiratesÂ
Original Flight Highlights
- Your experience starts as soon as you arrive at the airport, whether Dubai International Airport or your starting destination. At Dubai International there is a dedicated check in wing for first and business class travelers, with a separate section for first class travelers.
- At Dubai International Airport there is also a separate lounge for Emirates first class travelers complete with a full spa, showers, bars, shoe shine, children’s play areas and a la carte restaurant. The restaurant is one of the main points of differentiation from the business class lounge as instead of a buffet style you are served full plates from a menu and your dishes are cooked to order. We flew in the morning so ordered an omlette and waffles, pictured below.
- Depending on your destination boarding is possible from the first class lounge directly to the aircraft which makes it seamless and quick.
- At your seat you have everything you need within arms reach: a fully stocked minibar (with soft beverages), a snack basket (changes seasonally), a vanity kit (with sleeping balms and creams), a writing kit (with notepad and pen), plenty of storage areas and a mini iPad controller for your large flat screen tv in front of you.
- Our A380 cabin used a 1 2 1 configuration. The middle suites could suit companions, while privacy doors separated each seat from the aisle. The seat became a fully flat bed with turndown service and generous bedding. Other Emirates First Class layouts differ.
- While there is a seat service first class travelers on Emirates can order anything from the menu at anytime so if you want to start with something sweet you can! The drinks selection is also upgraded from business class with premium beverages on offer and if you want to enjoy the onboard lounge (behind business class) you can and the staff will bring the first class beverages there exclusively for you. The onboard bar is always a great place to meet people and the bartenders are excellent conversationalists. Not to mention the nibbles at the bar that rotate throughout the flight and change seasonally.
- A major feature on our A380 was the spacious Shower Spa with a standing shower. Passengers book a time with the crew, and slots before landing can fill quickly. This facility is not available on the Boeing 777.
- The staff onboard in Emirates first class are the most experienced stewards and stewardess in the skies and take great care of all guests. They are known for being very attentive.
Things We Noted
- It is no longer possible to get dedicated private car when you purchase your first class ticket with miles.
- You can not double upgrade from economy for example to first class so to be able to upgrade your emirates flight you need to first purchase a business class ticket and then you can upgrade to first class.
- As certain dishes in the menu can be more popular some can get out of stock faster than others. While Emirates is pretty good at predicting and keeping enough dishes on hand it is worth letting your steward or stewardess know ahead of time if you have a particular preference so they keep it reserved for you.
- Meals onboard first class are similar to those in business class, while the plating and presentation is done with a little more fanfare the actual menus are identical with first class typically given one or two additional options.
Original Flight Tips
- The photographs show an older Emirates A380 suite. Newer products include the limited Boeing 777 Game Changer cabin. Check the seat map before booking, but remember that operational aircraft changes can happen.
- Emirates have a excellent dietary options that can be booked along with your flight. Make sure to let them know ahead of time during your book or 48 before your flight so the special meals can be arranged. We opted for a vegan meal in business class and you can read more about that experience here.
- Ask your steward or stewardess to book a shower slot for you in the onboard spa and take a shower then change into emirates first class pajamas (provided on request) and come back to your seat which has been transformed into a fully flat bed all fresh to enjoy your flight in complete comfort and relaxation.
- Sign up for Emirates Skywards to earn and redeem skywards miles towards upgrades and other perks. You can also opt to earn for other programs such as Marriott Bonvoy as well to fast track your points accumulation.
Emirates First Class Review – Photos
