Emirates vs Qatar Airways – Which Wins?

1. Cabin Comfort & Seating

Emirates

• Famous for its opulent First Class suites with sliding doors, minibars, and even an onboard shower spa on the A380.

• Business Class on newer aircraft offers fully flat beds, spacious seats, and a 1-2-1 layout for direct aisle access.

• Economy is comfortable with generous legroom (32–34 inches) and seat-back entertainment screens.

Qatar Airways

• Widely praised for the Qsuite in Business Class — private suites with sliding doors, adjustable layouts for couples, and even a double bed option.

• Economy Class offers slightly better seat width than Emirates on most aircraft.

• First Class (only on select aircraft) focuses more on understated elegance rather than flashy extras.

Winner: Qatar Airways for Business Class innovation (Qsuite), Emirates for First Class extravagance.

2. In-Flight Dining

Emirates

• Offers a multi-course dining experience in all cabins, with menus inspired by destination cuisines.

• Onboard lounge (A380) for Business and First Class passengers serving cocktails and canapés mid-flight.

• Known for a wide range of fine wines and champagnes, including Dom Pérignon in First Class.

Qatar Airways

• A la carte dining in Business and First Class — passengers can eat what they want, when they want.

• Signature dishes curated by celebrity chefs, such as Nobu Matsuhisa-inspired menus.

• Wine list features premium selections, and presentation often rivals upscale restaurants.

Winner: Qatar Airways for flexibility and presentation, Emirates for onboard lounge experience.

3. Entertainment & Wi-Fi

Emirates

• ICE entertainment system with over 5,000 channels — the largest in the industry.

• Free Wi-Fi for certain loyalty members and First/Business Class passengers, with paid options for others.

Qatar Airways

• Oryx One entertainment system offers around 4,000 options — still excellent, but fewer than Emirates.

• Super Wi-Fi available on many aircraft, often faster than Emirates’ standard offering, and sometimes complimentary for an hour.

Winner: Emirates for sheer content volume, Qatar for faster Wi-Fi on newer planes.

4. Lounges & Ground Experience

Emirates

• Dubai hub features multiple First and Business Class lounges with fine dining, spa treatments, and direct boarding gates.

• Chauffeur service for premium passengers in many cities.

Qatar Airways

• The Al Mourjan Business Lounge in Doha is often described as one of the world’s best — elegant architecture, quiet zones, à la carte dining.

• First Class passengers enjoy the ultra-luxurious Al Safwa Lounge with private rooms and even a mini-museum feel.

Winner: Qatar Airways for Business Class lounge experience, Emirates for premium perks like chauffeur service.

5. Route Network & Availability

Emirates

• Flies to over 140 destinations in more than 80 countries.

• Strong long-haul network and multiple daily services on popular routes.

Qatar Airways

• Serves 160+ destinations worldwide, with a particular strength in Africa, South Asia, and Europe connections.

• More frequent connections to niche destinations.

Winner: Qatar Airways for global reach, Emirates for frequent service on flagship routes.

Verdict: Which Airline Wins?

• Choose Emirates if you value First Class luxury, endless entertainment options, and a glamorous in-flight experience with extras like the A380 bar and shower spa.

• Choose Qatar Airways if you want the best Business Class in the world, personalized dining, and a more refined, private onboard atmosphere.

For most travelers, Qatar Airways edges ahead thanks to the revolutionary Qsuite and its consistently high service ratings across all cabins. But for those chasing the ultimate First Class indulgence, Emirates remains the king of the skies.

Final Tip

Both airlines regularly offer discounted premium fares during sales. If you’re flexible, you can fly Business Class for the price of Economy with careful planning.