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Updated November 2024

Key takeaways:

• Qatar Airways and Emirates offer extensive global route networks through hubs in Doha and Dubai

• Both airlines provide unparalleled service with cutting-edge fleet options

• Both airlines offer exceptional in-flight entertainment, dining, and flexible baggage policies

Available fleet and destinations

When choosing an airline for international travel, the availability of routes and destinations plays a pivotal role. Qatar Airways and Emirates boast extensive networks connecting passengers to various corners of the globe from their respective hubs in Doha and Dubai.

Fleet overview

Qatar Airways operates a diverse fleet of state-of-the-art aircraft, such as the Airbus A350, A380, A320, Boeing 777, and Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The A350 stands out as a flagship aircraft for Qatar Airways, which was the global launch customer, renowned for its exceptional passenger comfort and fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, the A380, the largest aircraft in their fleet, boasts a tri-class configuration and is celebrated by passengers for its unparalleled spaciousness.

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@ Emirates

Emirates, on the other hand, is renowned for its large fleet of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s. The airline will also elevate passenger experiences by introducing the new Emirates A350, promising enhanced comfort, upgraded entertainment systems, and refined interior design. The A380s remain a standout feature, offering private suites, shower spas in First Class, and a sophisticated onboard lounge, making them a favorite among travelers.

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Global destinations

Qatar Airways connects travelers to a myriad of destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Notable destinations include Sydney, Manila, Doha, the Maldives, Colombo, Phuket, Denpasar Bali, and Bangkok. The airline is known for opening up less-traveled routes and providing access to emerging markets.

Emirates offers flights to over 150 destinations worldwide. Popular destinations among travelers include Zurich, Barcelona, Rome, Venice, and Prague. Emirates’ network is robust in connecting passengers through its Dubai hub to Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia.

Cabin classes comparison

Cabin comfort is essential for a pleasant journey, especially on long-haul flights. Both airlines invest heavily in ensuring passenger comfort across all classes.

Economy class

Qatar Airways’ Economy Class offers one of the widest seats in the industry with adjustable headrests. Passengers can enjoy entertainment through Oryx One, featuring up to 8,000 options. The airline provides freshly prepared meals inspired by regional flavors, and children receive special attention from the Oryx Kids Club.

Emirates’ Economy Class is designed to feel like an upgrade. Passengers can expect comfortable seating, multicourse meals showcasing destination-inspired dishes, and over 6,500 entertainment channels on their award-winning ICE system. The airline also caters to children with special meals and entertainment options.

Additionally, Premium Economy offers wider cream leather seats with extra legroom, an elevated dining experience featuring local flavors, and an upgraded entertainment system with larger HD screens and faster Wi-Fi for enhanced comfort and convenience.

Business class

@ Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways’ Business Class is renowned for its Qsuite, offering enhanced privacy with sliding doors and the option to convert seats into a double bed. The cabin provides on-demand à la carte dining and a vast entertainment system. Amenities include Diptyque products and loungewear from The White Company.

@ Emirates

Emirates’ Business Class features lie-flat seats, direct aisle access, and the luxury of an onboard lounge on the A380 aircraft. Dining is a gourmet experience with regionally inspired menus, and passengers can enjoy a vast selection of entertainment options. The airline also offers a meal pre-ordering service for added convenience.

First class

Qatar Airways’ First Class provides complete privacy with spacious seats that convert into fully lie-flat beds. Passengers enjoy tailored experiences with signature dishes and exclusive amenities from brands like Diptyque and The White Company. The cabin is designed for work and relaxation, with Wi-Fi connectivity and thousands of entertainment options.

Emirates’ First Class is famous for its private suites, virtual windows, and zero-gravity seats. The A380 aircraft features shower spas and an onboard lounge. Dining is on-demand with a menu of gourmet dishes, and passengers can indulge in fine wines and spirits. Emirates’ First Class sets a high standard for luxury air travel.

What services and amenities are provided?

In-flight services and ground amenities are pivotal in shaping the overall travel experience, especially for airlines like Qatar Airways and Emirates, where luxury and innovation take center stage.

In-flight entertainment

Qatar Airways’ Oryx One in-flight entertainment system offers passengers up to 8,000 entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, games, and music. The intuitive touchscreen interface allows for easy navigation, enabling passengers to explore a vast array of content tailored to their preferences. With dual-screen options on certain aircraft, passengers can enjoy simultaneous entertainment experiences, making long-haul flights more enjoyable and engaging.

Emirates’ ICE (Information, Communication, Entertainment) system is renowned for its extensive selection of up to 6,500 channels, including the latest blockbuster movies, TV shows, music, and games. The dual-screen interface on Emirates’ A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft allows passengers to multitask, such as watching a movie on one screen while browsing the internet on another. The system also includes live TV and real-time flight information, ensuring passengers remain entertained and informed throughout their journey.

Check-in facilities

Qatar Airways offers online check-in through its app and website, with options to download digital boarding passes. Self-service kiosks and automated baggage drops are available at certain airports. The airline also supports BAGTAG for digitized baggage labeling.

Emirates provides online check-in and mobile boarding passes, letting you pass through security and board flights using your phone at select airports. Dubai International Airport offers self-service kiosks and a home check-in option for First Class and Platinum members. The airline ensures a smooth check-in process for all passengers.

Dining experience

@ Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways emphasizes a culinary journey with menus inspired by global flavors. In First and Business Class, dining is on-demand with à la carte menus. Special meals are available for dietary needs, and the airline focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

@ Emirates

Emirates offers regionally inspired multicourse meals in all classes. First Class passengers enjoy gourmet dining with fine wines and spirits. The airline also provides a meal preordering service in Business Class, allowing passengers to select their main courses in advance.

Pricing and baggage policies

Understanding fare options and baggage allowances is crucial when comparing these two airlines, as these factors can significantly influence the value and convenience of your journey.

Fare options

Qatar Airways offers a diverse range of Fare Families, providing passengers significant flexibility to match their travel needs. This system allows travelers to select combinations of fares and products that deliver the best value and convenience, ensuring a personalized travel experience. By emphasizing customization, Qatar Airways enables passengers to optimize their journey by choosing the most suitable services and pricing options.

Emirates offers Special, Saver, Flex, and Flex Plus fares in Economy Class, with varying degrees of flexibility and benefits. Similar options are available in Premium Economy, Business, and First Class. Emirates Skywards members can also use Cash+Miles to reduce ticket costs. The airline focuses on offering clear and straightforward fare choices that make it easy for travelers to find options within their financial constraints.

Baggage allowance

Qatar Airways offers baggage allowances that vary by route and cabin class. In Economy, allowances range from 20kg to 35kg, depending on the sub-class, with up to two pieces allowed for flights to and from Africa or the Americas. Business Class passengers can check up to 40kg with two bags on these routes, while First Class passengers enjoy an allowance of up to 50kg. Economy class passengers are permitted one piece for hand baggage, while higher classes can bring two, each subject to specific weight limits.

Emirates provides generous baggage allowances based on total weight or the number of pieces, depending on the route. The weight system applies to most destinations, with allowances of up to 50kg in First Class, 40kg in Business, and 35kg in Economy. For flights to and from the Americas and Africa, the piece system allows up to two pieces in Economy and Business, with even higher allowances for premium cabins. Emirates also enforces size restrictions, with individual bags limited to 300cm in dimensions under the weight system or 150cm per piece under the piece system.

Frequent flyer programs

Loyalty programs can add significant value for frequent travelers, offering a range of perks beyond just earning points. Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club and Emirates’ Skywards programs, for instance, provide exclusive access to upgrades, priority check-ins, lounge access, and special promotions, making your travel experience even more enjoyable and rewarding.

Membership tiers

Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club has four tiers: Burgundy, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Members progress by earning Qpoints, with higher tiers offering more benefits like bonus Avios, lounge access, extra baggage allowance, and priority services.

Emirates Skywards also features four tiers: Blue, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Members earn Tier Miles to progress, unlocking benefits such as bonus Skywards Miles, lounge access, priority check-in, and additional baggage allowance.

Earning points

Qatar Airways uses Avios as its reward currency. Members earn Avios when flying with Qatar Airways, Oneworld Airlines, and partners. Bonus Avios are awarded based on membership tier, with up to 100% bonus for Platinum members.

Emirates Skywards members earn Skywards Miles when flying with Emirates, flydubai, and partner airlines. Bonus Miles are also tier-based, with up to 100% bonus for Platinum members. Additionally, members can earn Miles through banking, retail, and lifestyle partners.

Redeeming benefits

Qatar Airways Privilege Club members can redeem Avios for flights, upgrades, excess baggage, and duty-free shopping at Qatar. They can also enjoy benefits like lounge access and priority services based on their tier.

Emirates Skywards members can spend Miles on flights, flight upgrades, hotel stays, and exclusive events through Skywards Exclusives. The program offers flexibility with options like Cash+Miles for flight bookings.

Refund policies

Qatar Airways allows refunds based on the fare rules during ticket purchase. Non-refundable fares will not return the base fare or surcharges but may refund unused taxes. Refund requests can be made online or through their offices, with specific conditions applied for different scenarios like medical issues or flight cancellations by the airline.

Emirates processes refunds according to the fare conditions advised at purchase. Refunds can be requested online, and the amount returned depends on whether the ticket is wholly unused or partially used. The airline emphasizes that requesting a refund will cancel the entire booking, and certain fees may apply.

Declaring the winner

Qatar Airways distinguishes itself with its innovative approach to cabin design, exemplified by the Qsuite, and its fuel-efficient, modern fleet that enhances passenger comfort. Its flexible baggage policies and focus on emerging destinations make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking practicality, privacy, and the ability to explore less conventional routes.

On the other hand, Emirates counters with its standout Premium Economy cabin, a perfect blend of luxury and value, and its ICE in-flight entertainment system, keeping passengers entertained for hours on end. Its extensive global network and emphasis on seamless connections through Dubai appeal to those prioritizing a premium onboard experience and access to major travel hubs.

Ultimately, the decision between the two airlines boils down to your personal preferences and travel priorities. Each offers unique advantages, ensuring that no matter which one you choose, your journey will be marked by exceptional service and modern comfort. As such, we declare that the real winner here is you, the traveler, as both airlines deliver a remarkable flying experience tailored to your needs.

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