We recently flew Emirates from DC through Dubai to Bangkok (not the same route, but a long trip). We met friends in Bangkok who left DC flying West and it was almost exactly the same time-wise. Flying Emirates was a great experience. We were able to upgrade using transferred miles so I am sure that influences my opinion, but their planes are nice and by all accounts their economy product compares favorably to others. We had about 90 minutes in Dubai on our way there and transferred very easily, and on the way back we decided to take a 24 hour layover to see a little bit of Dubai. There is a terminal hotel that is great - your stay is 24 hours from when you check in, so we were able to check in very late at night/early morning, sleep and then head into the city from about 11 am to 9 pm, go back to our room, shower, change and pack and relax before a 2 am flight home. Good luck!
