Emirates Business Class Review: A380 Dubai to Seoul

For years, flying on a two-story airplane has been at the top of my aviation bucket list, so when I saw that this was an option flying from Seoul to the Maldives, I didn’t look any further.

We initially flew from Seoul to Male in economy and upgraded to business class on the return flight so we could experience all the options. Here’s what it’s actually like to fly Emirates A380 business class — and how it compares to their 777.

First Impressions: The Double-Decker Really Is Special

Business class seats as far as the eye can see

There’s something different about boarding the A380, it just feels like an aviation miracle. How is it possible that a two-story airplane can actually fly?

Since we flew to Male in economy, we were on the “bottom floor” so everything felt normal, except for the staircase at the back of the plane. It was roped off for that flight, and on our return flight we boarded on the second story, so we never got a chance to use the staircase.

The part that surprised me upon walking into business class on an A380, though, was just how expansive it truly was. There are A LOT of seats. Think about normal economy class on any plane - then turn all of those seats into business class seats.

While that’s great for availability and upgrades, it does slightly dilute that ultra-private, boutique feel you get in a traditional business class on other airlines. It’s impressive. It’s comfortable. But it just doesn’t feel intimate.

Still, finally flying the A380? Absolutely worth it.

The Seats

We almost never get to sit side-by-side on airplanes because we’re usually flying with kids.

Emirates’ A380 business class features a 1-2-1 configuration, which means every passenger gets direct aisle access — a major win on an overnight flight. Since we had upgraded, the only seats we could get were across the aisle from each other and my husband knows I love a window seat, so he took the middle aisle seat.

My husband wasted no time falling asleep.

The seat converts into a fully flat bed and includes solid storage and a personal minibar. If I’m being picky, I prefer seats that are closer to the window or have a stronger barrier between the seat and the aisle. The ones we sat in felt slightly more exposed than I’d like. That said — comfort was not an issue.

For sleeping on a long-haul flight from Dubai to Seoul, the bed worked beautifully.

Pajamas in Business Class (A First for Us)

$2,000 pajamas anyone?

One of the highlights? Pajamas. I knew about this but my husband was genuinely shocked. For the first time ever in business class, we were handed Emirates-branded sleepwear — and I was excited. They’re soft, breathable, and feel like elevated loungewear rather than a novelty item.

We changed shortly after takeoff. And yes — we still wear them at home. It’s one of those details that makes the flight feel memorable long after you land. (And a constant reminder to rebook Emirates flights when the time comes. Bravo to the marketing team.)

The Amenity Kit

Emirates partners with Bvlgari for its business class amenity kits, which immediately sets expectations high. The products themselves are quality, and the branding is luxurious, but this is my least favorite amenity kit we’ve received to date. For an airline known for bold, over-the-top touches, the overall presentation felt slightly underwhelming.

We both received the structured toiletry bag version. While well made, I would have preferred the softer pouch option — it’s a more practical size that I’d realistically reuse for travel. Nothing is wrong with it. It just didn’t match the level of wow I associate with Emirates. (And in all honesty, the amenity kit is just a perk so it should never be a deal breaker.)

Food & Drinks

Okay I know that people are always super interested in comparing business class food to economy food on flights. The expectation is that the food is always better.

SO - I took one picture of my food, and that was the soup and salad course at the end of the flight. Our flight took off around 4am and I was in no mood for food.

However, the I do enjoy the larger drink selection and the chocolates and desserts located in the onboard lounge. I could’ve taken a few of those home with me.

The Onboard Bar: The A380 Feature Everyone Talks About

Wearing my Emirates business class pajamas AND hanging out behind the onboard bar.

Now for the feature that makes the A380 iconic: the onboard bar.

Located at the back of the business class cabin, it’s a true stand-up lounge in the sky where passengers can:

• Sit and socialize

• Order cocktails, wine, or champagne

• Snack on light bites

• Stretch during the flight

Seating in the on board lounge on Emirates A380

Even though this was an overnight route and sleep was our priority, I made time to visit. It’s one of those aviation moments that makes you think, “Okay, this is cool.”

It’s uniquely Emirates. And uniquely A380.

A380 vs. 777: Which Emirates Business Class Is Better?

In the business class configuration on a B777

On this same trip, we also flew Emirates business class on the Boeing 777 from Malé to Dubai — which gave us a direct comparison.

Here’s the key difference:

• A380: 1-2-1 layout with direct aisle access for all

• 777: 2-3-2 layout

At 5’5” I’m not utilizing enough of this leg room!

The 777 definitely has an older overall feel. However, the legroom is outstanding, and for a short-haul or regional flight, it’s incredibly comfortable.

We sat in the “3” middle section but had two seats together, so we avoided climbing over a stranger — something that can happen in this configuration. If that’s not something you want to deal with, choosing a window seat is the safer move.

Overall, I found both aircraft equally comfortable for their specific routes. But for a long-haul overnight flight, the A380’s more private 1-2-1 configuration makes a noticeable difference.

Final Verdict: Would I Book It Again?

If flying the Airbus A380 is on your bucket list, Emirates business class is a fantastic way to do it.

Is a full level of business class seats the most private business class in the sky? No.
Is it comfortable, memorable, and uniquely fun? Absolutely.

Between:

• The double-decker novelty

• The onboard bar

• The fully flat beds

• The surprisingly comfortable pajamas

This Dubai to Seoul flight delivered an experience we won’t forget.

And yes — I’d book the A380 again for long-haul travel.

Making the Most of a Dubai Layover

If you’re connecting through Dubai on a round trip Emirates itinerary, don’t overlook the airline’s complimentary stopover program. We used Emirates’ Dubai Connect service on this trip — which includes a hotel stay and transfers for eligible long layovers.

If you’re planning a similar routing, I break down exactly how it works, who qualifies, and what the hotel experience is like in my full Dubai Connect review here:
👉 Dubai Connect

It’s one of the easiest ways to turn a long connection into an actual experience — especially when flying through Dubai.