With virtual reality, zero-gravity seats, and fabrics inspired by Mercedes-Benz interiors, the latest first-class suites on Emirates are completely over the top. Perhaps what makes this experience so unique is the sheer notion that the middle seat is actually the best seat. For the new Boeing 777-300ER, Emirates offers two rows with three suites across, rather than the traditional four. To make sure that the middle seat passengers weren’t missing out, Emirates created virtual reality “windows,” which show the scenes going on outside in HD clarity. After a few glasses from the airline’s $500-million wine cellar, including cult favorites like Château Mouton Rothschild 2004, no one would hold it against you for believing you’re in an actual window seat.
Emirates also commissioned top space engineers to create a zero-gravity position in the first-class seat, so you can feel as if you’re floating through the skies. And with a seat that comfortable, who wants to get up to flag down a refill? Emirates created a FaceTime-style setup, where you can video chat with the crew to make any requests.
Passengers can adjust their personal lighting according to their mood and even control the temperature within the suite. They’ve also upgraded the TVs to 32-inch HD monitors, while also introducing the only floor-to-ceiling privacy doors found in the sky. Resting comes easy with a flat bed and goodies like leather-bound journals, Byredo eye cream, chamomile sleep oil, pillow mist, and an ensuite (non-alcoholic) minibar with soft drinks, mints, and snacks. In fact, there are so many gifts for first-class fliers that flight attendants present amenities like pajamas designed to prevent skin dehydration thanks to shea butter and Argan oil within the fabric, slippers, and deluxe amenity kits in a keepsake bag.
The only things missing on the Boeing 777 are the famous in-flight showers, bar, and lounge available on the A380. Luckily, Emirates’s first-class lounge in Dubai makes up for it with its dedicated Moët and Chandon bar, lavish shower suites, and an a la carte menu that includes a growing number of vegan and gluten-free selections. More decadent choices include chargrilled Wagyu burgers, 72-hour braised beef short ribs, and foie gras terrine. Even better, the airline has beefed up the amount of top-shelf Champagne and caviar it brings onboard for first class passengers to allow them to have second and even third helpings, should they wish.
