Dubai: Emirates Skywards has introduced a major update to its loyalty program, giving over 35 million members worldwide the option to redeem Miles for Premium Economy tickets and upgrades. This marks the first time Premium Economy has been included in the redemption structure, opening up a new level of comfort and accessibility for frequent flyers.
Skywards members can now book Premium Economy tickets starting at 15,000 Miles for a one-way flight. Those who already hold Economy tickets can upgrade to Premium Economy from as little as 7,020 Miles, subject to availability. This feature is available on all Emirates routes offering Premium Economy, including high-demand destinations such as London, New York, Sydney, and Paris.
Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Senior Vice President of Emirates Skywards, noted that the decision comes after strong demand from members who wanted to use their Miles to experience Emirates’ newest cabin class. He emphasized that the program has been designed to provide greater flexibility and reward loyalty with more meaningful options.
Premium Economy has quickly become one of Emirates’ most popular products. Positioned between Economy and Business Class, it caters to travelers looking for extra comfort and better service at a more affordable price point than Business. The cabin features cream leather seats with generous recline, up to 40 inches of pitch, and wider dimensions than standard Economy. Each seat comes with calf rests, footrests, and larger entertainment screens, while the dining experience includes meals served on fine china with a choice of premium beverages.
The appeal of Premium Economy lies in its ability to transform long-haul travel. Passengers on routes lasting ten or more hours find the additional legroom and recline especially valuable, while the refined service and ambiance give the cabin a distinctly premium feel without reaching the cost of a Business Class ticket. For loyalty members, the ability to redeem Miles for this experience creates a compelling middle ground—luxury made accessible through rewards.
The timing of this update aligns with Emirates’ ambitious fleet investment. The airline has committed US$5 billion to retrofit existing aircraft and expand Premium Economy availability. So far, 67 planes have been upgraded, and nine new Airbus A350s have entered service with Premium Economy installed. By the end of 2026, Emirates expects to offer more than four million Premium Economy seats annually, a scale unmatched in the Middle East and among the largest rollouts of its kind worldwide.
Skywards has already proven itself as one of the most rewarding loyalty programs in aviation. Nearly half a million tickets were redeemed with Miles this past summer alone, with London, New York, and Paris emerging as top choices. The inclusion of Premium Economy into this system only strengthens its appeal, giving members a chance to enjoy added comfort on some of the world’s busiest routes.
The process of booking or upgrading with Miles remains straightforward. Members can log into the Emirates website or mobile app, search for eligible flights, and choose to pay entirely with Miles or combine Miles with cash. For upgrades, travelers can either secure seats in advance or check availability at the airport during check-in. The flexibility ensures that members can make the most of their Miles even when plans change.
This update also highlights Emirates’ broader strategy of setting itself apart in the region. Currently, it is the only airline in the Middle East offering a true Premium Economy product. With competition among global carriers intensifying, Emirates’ ability to deliver a high-quality experience across all cabins reinforces its reputation as a leader in innovation and passenger comfort.
For travelers, the benefits are clear. Premium Economy offers more space, refined dining, and a quieter cabin atmosphere, making long-haul journeys less exhausting. For loyalty members, the ability to use Miles to access this product means greater value and choice. For Emirates, it ensures continued engagement with its massive Skywards membership base while cementing Premium Economy as a key part of the travel experience.
As Emirates continues its retrofit program and more routes gain access to Premium Economy, Skywards members will find increasing opportunities to redeem Miles for these flights. Whether it’s upgrading an Economy seat on a last-minute business trip or booking a full Premium Economy ticket for a long-awaited holiday, the new redemption structure makes it easier than ever to elevate travel.
By the end of 2026, Emirates projects millions of passengers will be flying in Premium Economy each year, and a significant portion of those journeys will likely be booked through Skywards. For members holding onto their Miles, this update offers one of the most compelling reasons yet to redeem them.
With demand for comfort and flexibility rising in global travel, Emirates’ decision to expand reward options reflects both passenger expectations and the airline’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve. For Skywards members, it signals the start of a new chapter where loyalty can be exchanged not just for flights, but for a premium experience that redefines long-haul travel.