Emirates Restricts First Class Awards Tickets To Skywards Elites

Intro

About a week and a half ago, I wrote a post stating why I think First Class awards should only be able to be booked by those with status. In my eyes, not only should First Class be an exclusive environment for those paying, but this will also open up even more space to people who are loyal to these airlines.

Well, it seems that Emirates is following suit here with Air France (somewhat), as the airline is now restricting award space to those with Silver or higher on the Emirates program.

The Details

As of today, Monday, May 12th, 2025, Emirates has come out with a new policy stating that First Class tickets can only be booked by those holding silver or higher status with the airline.

While Emirates is known for releasing a decent amount of award seats, there have always been relatively high taxes on these tickets. However, if you don't hold status and try to book one of these tickets now, it will simply come up with an error message.

A welcome addition in my eyes...

However, there are a couple of things to note:

1. From reports based online, you will still be able to upgrade your ticket at check-in and the lounge before boarding, with miles. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if Emirates gets rid of this strategy in the future, as I am guessing plenty of people will end up doing this.

2. If you really want to fly Emirates First Class, Silver status is relatively easy to obtain. They are funneling demand through their co-branded credit card, which offers silver status. Extremely smart by the airline.

Why I Am A Fan

Before someone says that "this probably doesn't affect you", I hold no status on the airline whatsoever. However, realistically speaking, influencers have taken to social media platforms sharing about booking all of these flights for "free" (nothing is ever free). With only so many seats, and everyone now wanting to fly the airline, why not capitalize on it?

Say goodbye to the Dom P

Additionally, First Class in my eyes is supposed to be a luxury experience, not an experience filled with influencers (guess I am included here somewhat) and people that inebriated at 38,000 feet. So yeah, I am a fan, as much as it sucks.

Final Thoughts

Emirates has decided to follow suit with the likes of FlyingBlue (for the most part) and restrict First Class award seats to those with elite status. Considering where Emirates stands, this is a smart move on their part, but it does suck for most of the people who want to fly EK First on miles...