Traveling in the Business class of an Emirates A380 aircraft
Most business travelers are familiar with the type of plane. That big, whale-like Airbus A380. The largest passenger aircraft in the world (in passenger numbers). A large aircraft that doesn't seem so massive at all due to its cabin layouts on the inside and is very quiet compared to other Airbus or Boeing aircraft. I, Business Travel Consultant Jizlia, flew myself to Dubai in 2018 in the Business class of an A380 Emirates aircraft. Here I paid a visit to the Emirates Crew Training Centre and to this amazing city. Of course, I am happy to share my experiences in this blog!
Upperdeck Airbus A380
Several airlines that have this aircraft in their fleet mostly use the upper deck of the aircraft as cabins for exclusive classes, such as Business and First class. Emirates also has an onboard bar, also called "the lounge," for passengers in these classes. The lounge often consists of a bar, manned or unmanned, surrounded by an area with comfortable sofas (with seat belts, of course) and a TV screen, which mainly shows flight information and informative videos.
Relax in the on-board lounge
Considering this was my first time in Emirates Business class, after boarding I couldn't wait to stretch my legs after lunch (it was an afternoon flight) and walk to the rear of the aircraft. After all, I was dying to check out the on-board lounge and order a nice drink.
Once in the lounge, it is like stepping into a private jet with leather couches, a nice bar with a liquor cabinet behind it, snacks, a large TV screen and mood lighting. A crew member stands behind the bar to take orders, which of course are free.
If the opportunity is there, they can make and serve everyone's favorite (non)alcoholic drink. Personally, a fresh Mojito seemed appropriate to me. Not knowing that the flight attendant first had to search the entire plane for a piece of lime... Once back with a handful of limes, I found myself with a delicious Mojito in my hand in no time! During a long flight, the lounge aboard the A380 is a nice environment to relax for a while. And also a convenient space for business travelers to socialize and network.
FUN FACT! In the Upperdeck of Emirates' A380 (at the front of the aircraft) are two bathrooms with real showers and steam rooms for First Class passengers. Every First Class passenger can reserve a time slot for this. Arriving at your destination fresh and fruiting after a long flight, who wouldn't want that!
Visit to the Emirates Crew Training Centre
During my visit to Dubai, I was given an interesting tour at the Emirates Crew Training Centre. The training center building stands not far from Dubai Airport and cannot be missed. In fact, one of the buildings can be recognized from the road to the airport by its unique design: the front part of an airplane fuselage.
During the tour, you will pass different areas where various education and training courses are given. Among other things, you will pass a large hall where pilots are trained using aircraft simulations. In addition, the training center has a huge hangar containing a large swimming pool and part of the fuselage of the A380. This fuselage has been recreated 1 on 1 to simulate emergencies such as landings on water.
Finally, during the tour we visited a class of future cabin crew. They were in the final leg of their training. This course mainly included: how to be well-groomed during a flight. The crew of Emirates is not known for nothing as one of the most stylish in the world!
Tips for your (business) visit to Dubai
If you have time to spare, there is plenty to do in Dubai! Besides being a business destination, Dubai has become a special vacation destination for young and old alike. Scattered throughout the city you will find plenty of fun things to do. You can't think of anything crazy or people are building it in Dubai. Think large spectacular swimming paradises with slides that not only go down but also up, mega shopping malls where you can even find an ice rink or a real ski slope with snow!
In addition, Dubai is and always has been a desert city and you can take beautiful excursions to the desert. Both day and evening excursions are great and possess their own unique atmosphere and experience. This also makes Dubai very suitable for organizing a unique incentive trip. During my visit, I did a desert safari at night, which is definitely recommended! In fact, at night you have the chance to see the sunset in the desert, changing the entire desert's color for a moment.
TIP! Spend the night at a camp resort in the desert. If that's not a once in a lifetime experience....
On the excursion, you will be driven around in a large SUV and bump up and down through the high sand dunes. During a stopover, there will be a show with large predators and the opportunity to "dune bash" with a quad bike. Here you cross at high speeds through the sand dunes. Truly insane! In addition, camel riding is also among the possibilities. After the activities you will visit a camp in the middle of the desert, where you can enjoy a tasty dinner with dance performances.
After reading this blog, did you get excited about a (business class) flight with Emirates for your next business trip to Dubai or one of their other many destinations? Or curious about the many opportunities Dubai has to offer before (and after) your business visit or for a cool group or incentive trip? We are happy to advise you!
Travel Well!
Jizlia Telussa,
Business Travel Consultant
