Odds are that flying with Emirates is something you may have done once or twice (at least).

The award-winning airline has plenty going for it, from its cool ice entertainment system that shows the latest movies to its comfy seats, which often come in four configurations (First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy).

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There are several benefits to flying Emirates, from those spacious seats to cool amenities you can walk away with.

Here’s a look at some little-known facts about the Dubai carrier that are plane amazing.

1. You can get vegan meals on your flights

You can enjoy a lovely vegan meal on Emirates; it has more than 300 vegan recipes that are served in rotation across 140 destinations. Examples include chickpea crepe stuffed with carrot, peppers, mushroom and tomato concasse. You can also sample a vegan dessert, think coconut mousse with mango compote and moist banana cake with chocolate.

2. You breathe really, really clean air

You don’t have to worry about the quality of air when you are flying. Fresh air is constantly added to recycled air through very fine HEPA filters that remove 99.997 percent of all dust, viruses, fungi and bacteria.

3. You can meditate on a flight

The carrier’s award-winning ice entertainment system not only shows the latest movies but also has wellbeing content including guided meditations and specially curated relaxation playlists.

4. You can pick from a well-curated grape list

Emirates invests a lot (Dhs186 million in 2022) into its grape and bubbly offerings. The healthy selection, which is different in each cabin class, is updated every two weeks, so flyers always have something new to try.

5. You can pre-order your meals when flying with Emirates

Not only will you ensure the food is fresh and made just for you, you’ll also reduce food wastage when you take advantage of the pre-ordering service for Business Class customers. The service allows passengers in Business Class to preselect their main course between 14 days and 24 hours before their flight takes off.

6. You get free, comfy lounge wear

If you are flying Business Class and it’s a flight that’s over nine hours’ long, you’ll get a cosy outfit to change into. The loungewear includes a cowl neck top and drawstring pants, comfortable slippers, and a matching eye mask. If you take a flight that’s 2 hours and 30 minutes or more, you’ll get complimentary slippers and eye mask sets.

7. You can charter a flight

Want to take a short-haul private flight? You can with Emirates. The on-demand regional charter flight service was launched last year. These flights will take off from Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). The aircraft seats up to four passengers, and travellers on the short flights are offered light bites and refreshments.

8. Your Emirates pass opens the doors to many deals

Your boarding pass does much more than just get you to your seat. It’s your ticket to benefits across Dubai. If you are flying to Dubai before March 31, keep your pass handy. All you have to do is present your pass and a photo ID at the participating restaurants, luxury spas, big‑name stores, private pools and beaches for discounted access. Places that accept the pass include Spa InterContinental in Dubai Festival City and Saray Spa in Business Bay.

9. You can get special Emirates luggage

Like the extras – such as the pajamas and travel accessories you get in Emirates First Class? Always wanted a backpack or suitcase with an official Emirates logo? These are now available at the Emirates official store. From backpacks to socks, you can have them all.

10. You get essential kits

Plush kits await you on Emirates flights. If you are flying Economy or Premium Economy, you’ll get pouches made using washable kraft paper in different colours. They come with essentials such a toothbrush made of straw and plastic, toothpaste, an eye mask and socks. If you are taking Business Class, the amenities get even swankier.

For women, the amenity kit comes in silver with lilac accents and men get a black and orange design. Each kit features several Bulgari products, including a mini bottle of BVLGARI perfume, face emulsion and body emulsion, deodorant, tissues and a foldaway hairbrush. For a complete look at the goodies you’ll find in the collectable bags, check out our article on the amenity kits for First and Business Class.

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