1. Baggage Policy

Checked Baggage Allowance

Emirates applies both weight and piece-based baggage systems depending on the destination and class of service.

• Economy Class: Passengers can carry between 20 to 35 kg, depending on the fare subclass (Special, Saver, Flex, or Flex Plus).
• Business Class: 40 kg
• First Class: 50 kg
• Piece Concept (e.g., USA, Canada):
  • Economy: 2 bags of 23 kg each
  • Business/First: 2 bags of 32 kg each

Cabin Baggage Allowance

• Economy Class: 1 carry-on bag up to 7 kg
• Business and First Class: 2 pieces (1 briefcase + 1 handbag or garment bag), with a total combined weight of 12 kg

Excess Baggage Policy

• Charges vary based on the travel route and excess weight.
• Online pre-purchase of extra baggage offers discounts.
• Oversized or overweight bags may incur additional fees or require special handling.

Special Baggage Items

• Emirates accommodates musical instruments, sports equipment (up to 300 cm), and medical equipment within permissible limits.
• Prior approval and packaging standards may apply.

2. Cancellation and Refund Policy

Types of Fares and Their Cancellation Flexibility

• Flex and Flex Plus: Cancellable with low or no fees.
• Saver and Special: Partially or non-refundable depending on ticket terms.

How to Cancel

• Cancellations can be made via the Emirates website, mobile app, or customer service.
• Refunds are processed to the original payment method.
• Processing time varies (7–20 business days).

No-Show and Penalties

• Not showing up for a flight without prior cancellation may lead to penalties and forfeiture of fare value.
• Rebooking is usually subject to availability and additional costs.

COVID-19 Era Adjustments

• Emirates provided unprecedented flexibility for cancellations and changes during the pandemic, some of which may still apply.

3. Date Change and Rebooking Policy

Change Fees

• Based on the fare conditions.
• Flex Plus: No change fee.
• Special/Saver: Moderate to high fee.

How to Rebook Flights

• Use the “Manage Booking” feature on the Emirates website.
• Rebooking through customer care is available for complex itineraries.

Fare Difference

• Any increase in fare due to change in date or destination must be paid by the traveler.

Flight Change Due to Schedule Change by Emirates

• Emirates allows free rebooking in the case of schedule adjustments.
• Refunds or travel vouchers may also be offered.

4. Unaccompanied Minors Policy

Eligibility

• Children aged 5 to 11 traveling alone must use the UM service.
• Children 12 to 15 can fly alone, with optional use of the UM service.

Booking Process

• UM service cannot be booked online. Parents/guardians must contact customer care.
• Required documents: valid passport, completed guardian consent forms, and emergency contact information.

Airport and In-Flight Assistance

• Dedicated staff assists throughout the journey.
• Early check-in, fast-track security, and priority boarding.
• Supervision during layovers and on the aircraft.

Restrictions

• UM service is not available for connecting flights with long layovers or if travel involves another airline.

5. Check-In Policy

Online Check-In

• Available 48 hours to 90 minutes before departure.
• Print boarding pass or receive a mobile boarding pass.

Airport Check-In

• Recommended arrival: 3 hours before flight.
• Counters close 60 minutes prior to departure.

Self-Service Kiosks

• Available in major airports like Dubai, London Heathrow, JFK.
• Allows check-in, baggage tag printing, and seat selection.

Baggage Drop

• Separate drop counters available for online check-in passengers.
• Business and First Class counters offer shorter queues.

6. Visa and Immigration Assistance

Visa Services Offered

• Available only for Emirates passengers.
• Options: 48-hour, 96-hour (transit), 30-day, and 90-day UAE tourist visas.

Eligibility

• Must hold an Emirates PNR (booking reference)
• Sponsorship required for some visa types

Application Process

• Apply through the Emirates website or contact the airline.
• Required documents: passport copy, photo, confirmed ticket, and proof of stay.

Visa on Arrival

• Citizens of select countries (e.g., USA, UK, EU) may obtain a visa upon arrival.

7. Onboard Entertainment: ICE System

What is ICE?

• Stands for Information, Communication, Entertainment.
• Offers 5,000+ channels of movies, TV shows, live news, and music.

Accessibility Features

• Subtitles, sign language interpretation, and audio descriptions
• Screen magnifiers for visually impaired travelers

Other Features

• Live sports and TV channels
• In-seat power and USB charging ports
• Multi-language interface

8. Pet Policy

In-Cabin Travel

• Not allowed, except for certified guide dogs or emotional support animals (only on certain routes).

Pets as Cargo

• Emirates SkyCargo transports pets under IATA Live Animal Regulations.
• Pet must be in a suitable carrier with health documents.

Falcons on Board

• Falcons are permitted in the cabin for passengers traveling between specific destinations (mainly Gulf countries).

Pet Booking Process

• Must be completed at least 1 week before departure.
• Requires microchipping, vaccinations, and import permits.

9. Special Assistance

Mobility and Disability Services

• Wheelchair assistance from check-in to boarding
• Priority services and accessible restrooms on board

Medical Assistance

• Passengers needing medical oxygen, stretchers, or other aid must submit a MEDIF form.
• Emirates provides onboard oxygen at an additional cost.

Pregnant Travelers

• Up to 28 weeks: No documentation required
• 29 to 36 weeks: Doctor’s certificate required
• 37+ weeks: Travel not permitted

Other Needs

• Allergy alerts, dietary requirements, and assistance for elderly travelers available upon request.

10. In-Flight Meals and Beverage Services

Economy Class

• Hot meals and complimentary drinks
• Menus inspired by regional cuisines

Business and First Class

• Multi-course gourmet meals
• Fine wines, premium spirits, and à la carte dining

Special Meal Requests

• Available options: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, diabetic
• Request must be submitted at least 24–48 hours prior to flight

11. Emirates Skywards Loyalty Program

Membership Tiers

• Blue: Basic membership
• Silver: Extra baggage, lounge access
• Gold: Priority services, premium support
• Platinum: Guaranteed seats, highest privileges

How to Earn and Redeem Miles

• Earn through flights, hotels, car rentals, and partner retailers
• Redeem for upgrades, flight tickets, or partner benefits

12. Codeshare and Airline Partnerships

Major Partners

• Qantas, JetBlue, Air Canada, South African Airways

Benefits

• Seamless travel experience with baggage transfer
• Joint ticketing and coordinated schedules

Important Notes

• Policies may differ based on the operating carrier
• Always check conditions if your journey includes a codeshare segment

13. Travel Insurance

Coverage Options

• Offered during flight booking
• Includes trip cancellation, medical coverage, flight delays, and lost luggage

COVID-19 Benefits

• Some plans include coverage for quarantine expenses, PCR tests, and emergency evacuation

How to Claim

• File claims online or via customer support
• Provide flight documents, receipts, and medical reports if applicable

14. Involuntary Changes and Denied Boarding

Flight Cancellations by Emirates

• Rebooking, refunds, or travel vouchers are offered
• Notification provided via SMS, email, or app

Denied Boarding Compensation

• Provided in accordance with local and international aviation rules (e.g., EU261)

Flight Delays

• Assistance includes food, hotel stays, and rebooking on the next available flight