Emirates has finally brought its Boeing 777 business class up to modern standards with a new cabin design. Recent flights between Dubai and Frankfurt reveal a significant improvement over the airline’s older, less competitive configuration. The updated cabin features flat-bed seats with direct aisle access, offering a far more comfortable experience for long-haul travelers.
A Significant Step Forward
For years, Emirates’ 777 business class lagged behind its A350 offering and competitors with its outdated 2-3-2 seating arrangement. The new layout, inspired by the A350, uses a 1-2-1 configuration with staggered seats produced by Safran. While not revolutionary, this change provides a substantial upgrade in comfort and privacy. The seats feature luxurious finishes and thoughtful design elements, including mattress pads, pillows, blankets, and individual air nozzles.
Comparing the 777 to the A350
While the hard product is nearly identical between the 777 and A350, subtle differences influence the overall experience:
- The A350’s smaller cabin (32 seats vs. 38 on the 777) creates a more intimate atmosphere.
- The A350 has a superior lavatory ratio (four lavatories for business class passengers vs. two on the 777).
- The A350 offers a quieter cabin, enhanced entertainment features (including ghaf tree designs on window shades), and a more modern system.
- The lack of first class on the A350 means business class passengers enjoy top-tier deplaning priority and purser attention.
Entertainment and Connectivity
Emirates’ ICE inflight entertainment system remains a standout feature, providing an extensive selection of movies, TV shows, and live TV on 23-inch personal screens with Bluetooth audio. The 777 cabin includes a nose camera, but lacks the tail camera found on the A350.
Connectivity remains a weak point, as many 777s still use slow OnAir Wi-Fi. However, Emirates is in the process of installing Starlink, which will drastically improve internet speeds once implemented.
Food, Drinks, and Service
Emirates consistently delivers excellent food and service in business class. On the early morning Dubai-Frankfurt flight, passengers were offered flexible “light bites” shortly after takeoff, including options like tofu poke bowls and cheese plates. The airline’s signature martini service in proper glassware adds a touch of luxury.
The main meal featured a cheese omelet with spinach and potato cakes, accompanied by fruit, yogurt, and fresh bread. Flight attendants, such as the Egyptian crew member on this particular flight, provide attentive and personalized service.
The Bottom Line
Emirates’ updated 777 business class is a welcome improvement that brings the product in line with modern standards. While the A350 remains the superior option overall, the 777 now offers a competitive experience with comfortable seating, excellent entertainment, and top-tier service. Emirates continues to deliver a consistently high-quality experience, ensuring passengers leave flights with a favorable impression.
