The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Emirates Skywards – Points, Perks, and Free Upgrades!
Get ready for business class!
Are you ready to transform your travel experiences with Emirates Skywards? Whether you're a seasoned jet setter or a connoisseur of occasional luxury, mastering the Emirates Skywards rewards program can unlock a world of benefits and make every journey more rewarding. I've designed this guide to not only dive deep into the secrets of accumulating and using Skywards Miles but also to help you climb the tiers faster than ever!
After flying with Emirates for the past 10 years, I’ve picked up some tricks to help you revolutionise the way you travel and get the most out of the Emirates Loyalty scheme—Emirates Skywards. I'll walk you through everything from the basics of the program to the clever hacks that seasoned travellers use to maximize their rewards. You'll learn how to earn miles faster, spend them wisely, and elevate your travel status to enjoy exclusive perks. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your next flight to business class without breaking the bank or planning your dream vacation using miles, I've got you covered!
Now, go grab your passport and get on board, a little extra legroom awaits! ;)
Disclaimer: I'm more of a visual person than a word-lover, and I know many of you prefer content that's concise and to the point. I highly recommend diving into the details, but don’t worry—I’ll also share my essential tips as a takeaway! Plus, I’ll let you in on a little secret that can fast-track you to an Emirates Skywards Gold tier membership by purchasing only one economy class ticket.
Understanding Emirates Skywards Miles
Let me start by introducing you to the basics of Emirates Skywards, the loyalty program that’s a must-know for anyone looking to make their travel more rewarding. Whether you’re new to Skywards or looking to brush up on your knowledge, understanding how this program works is the first step towards maximising its benefits.
What is Emirates Skywards? Emirates Skywards is the award-winning frequent flyer program of Emirates and flydubai. As a member, you earn Skywards Miles every time you fly with these airlines or their partner carriers. But it’s not just about flying; you can also earn miles through a range of activities on the ground, from hotel stays to car rentals, and even when shopping online.
Membership Tiers Explained Emirates Skywards has four membership tiers: Blue, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each tier offers progressively better benefits:
Blue: This is your entry point into the program. As soon as you sign up, you can enjoy travel benefits from instant upgrades using Skywards Miles at check‑in or on board, waitlist priority and access to free unlimited messaging using the Onboard Wi‑Fi when you're travelling.
Silver: Once you accumulate 25,000 Tier Miles or take 25 flights in a year, you reach Silver status. As a Silver member you have access to all Blue tier membership benefits, 30% bonus Miles on Emirates and flydubai flights, complimentary Emirates Business Class lounge access for you in Dubai, complimentary Economy Class seat selection and passengers in your booking, access to Masterclass Travel Pass, plus a few other great benefits.
Gold: At 50,000 Tier Miles or 50 flights, you enter the Gold tier. As a Gold member, you have access to all Blue and Silver tier membership benefits as well as 75% bonus Skywards Miles on Emirates and flydubai flights, business class check-in terminal in Dubai, priority baggage delivery, access to Emriates’ Business class lounges worldwide and much, much more!
Platinum: The pinnacle of Skywards membership requires a whopping 150,000 Tier Miles. As a Platinum member, you get to enjoy all the benefits of a Blue, Silver and Gold membership as well as complimentary Home check‑in in Dubai, First Class check-in at the airport and excess baggage allowances, complimentary lounge access for you and your guests in all Emirates First Class and Business Class lounges in Dubai and worldwide, 100% bonus Skywards Miles on Emirates and flydubai flights and Gold tier membership for a spouse, partner or friend.
See the full list of benefits here.
Earning Miles The primary way to earn miles is by flying. The number of miles you earn per flight depends on your route, fare type, and class of service. For example, flying first class earns you more miles than economy. Additionally, engaging with Emirates’ extensive network of partners, including hotels, car rentals, and retailers, can boost your miles balance significantly.
Spending Miles Spending your accumulated miles is where the fun begins! You can redeem them for flight tickets, class upgrades, hotel stays, and exclusive shopping items. What’s exciting is that the flexibility of the Skywards program allows you to use miles to cover a part of a ticket price (cash+miles option), making it easier to manage your travel budget.
Understanding these fundamentals will help you leverage the Emirates Skywards program to its fullest. Stay tuned as I dive deeper into strategies to earn miles faster and use them more effectively in upcoming sections. With these insights, you’re well on your way to turning every trip into a journey packed with value and luxury.
Earning Miles Strategically - listen up!
Now that you're familiar with the basics of Emirates Skywards, let’s talk about one of the main aspects of the program—earning miles. I’m going to share some strategic tips on how to maximize your miles accumulation so that every flight and partnership interaction propels you closer to your next dream destination.
Flying remains the fastest way to rack up Skywards Miles. Here’s how you can make every flight count:
Choose Higher Fare Classes
When booking your flights with Emirates, you'll come across various fare options—Saver, Flex, and Flex Plus. Understanding the differences between these fare classes can significantly impact your Skywards Miles earnings and your overall travel flexibility. Here’s a breakdown of each fare class and how it can benefit your Skywards account.
Saver: This is the most economical fare option. While it offers the lowest price, it also accrues fewer miles compared to higher-fare classes. Saver fares are perfect if you're looking to save money on travel; however, they come with more restrictions on booking changes and cancellations. Saver fares might be the right choice if you’re not concerned about flexibility and just want the most budget-friendly option while still earning some miles.
Flex (my fare of choice): Stepping up from Saver, the Flex fare offers a middle ground between affordability and earning potential. With Flex fares, you earn more miles than Saver fares and enjoy increased flexibility, such as better options for changes and cancellations without high fees. This fare class is ideal for those who might need a bit more flexibility in their travel plans and want to accumulate miles faster than the Saver option allows.
Flex Plus: This is the premium fare option that offers the most flexibility and the highest rate of mile accumulation. Flex Plus fares are excellent for travellers who value the ability to make last-minute travel changes without penalties and want to maximize their miles earnings. Although this fare class comes at a higher price, the benefits include top-tier miles-earning potential, which can quickly elevate your Skywards Miles balance and enhance your access to future upgrades and rewards.
Earning Example: Let’s say you fly from Dubai to London. A Saver fare might earn you 25% of the miles flown, a Flex fare could earn you 75%, and a Flex Plus fare might credit you with 100% of the miles flown, or sometimes even more during promotional periods. The image above illustrates why choosing Flex or Flex Plus can be particularly advantageous if you're looking to accumulate miles quickly.
By selecting Flex or Flex Plus fares, not only do you gain more miles per flight, but you also enjoy greater peace of mind with the added flexibility. These benefits make it easier to manage your travel plans and faster to reach higher tiers in the Emirates Skywards program.
Other tips:
Fly with Emirates and Partners: This is a loyalty scheme, after all! To maximize your accumulation of Skywards Miles, committing to flying predominantly with Emirates and its airline partners is essential.
Take Advantage of Special Offers: Emirates frequently runs promotions offering bonus miles for certain routes or during specific periods. Keep an eye on these offers and plan your travel around them.
Earning with Partners: Emirates has an extensive network of lifestyle and travel partners that can help boost your miles balance. Here’s how to leverage these partnerships:
Hotels and Accommodation: Always check for hotel partners that offer Skywards Miles when you book. These can range from budget to luxury properties, so choose according to your travel style and budget.
Car Rentals: If you need a rental car, use Emirates car rental partners. You’ll not only get a reliable vehicle but also earn miles for every dollar spent.
Shopping and Lifestyle: Emirates has numerous retail and lifestyle partners. Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, look out for opportunities to earn miles. This includes everything from luxury fashion to everyday groceries.
Top tip: Download the Emirates Everyday App and link your Skywards account to earn miles even faster!
Credit Cards and Financial Products: Using a co-branded Emirates Skywards credit card for your daily transactions is one of the easiest ways to accumulate miles quickly:
Sign-Up Bonuses: Many Skywards credit cards offer attractive sign-up bonuses that can give you a significant miles boost right from the start (some as much as a long-haul business class flight)
Everyday Spending: Switch your daily spending to a Skywards credit card. From groceries to utility bills, every purchase can earn you miles.
Promotional Offers: Keep an eye on your card issuer’s promotions for additional miles earning opportunities, like increased rates during holidays or on specific categories of spending.
Engaging in Special Promotions: Lastly, don’t overlook special promotions. Emirates Skywards often runs campaigns where you can earn additional miles for specific activities or during certain times of the year. Signing up for the program’s newsletter and following Emirates on social media can keep you in the loop about these opportunities.
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly enhance the rate at which you accumulate Skywards Miles. Stay tuned as we delve into how to spend your hard-earned miles in the most effective ways in the next section. Remember, the goal is to make every aspect of your travel—both in the air and on the ground—as rewarding as possible!
Spending Miles :)
Now that we've discussed how to accumulate Skywards Miles, let's dive into the exciting part—spending them! Redeeming your miles effectively can significantly enhance your travel experience. Here, I'll share some strategies to help you get the most value out of your hard-earned miles.
Flight Tickets and Upgrades:
Book in Advance: To maximize your chances of getting flight tickets or upgrades with miles, plan and book as early as possible. Availability for award tickets and upgrades can be limited, especially in premium classes and on popular routes.
Be Flexible: Flexibility with your travel dates can open up more options for using your miles. If your travel dates are fixed, it might be tougher to find availability, so whenever possible, try to have a range of dates in mind.
Upgrades! This is how most people, including myself, love to spend their miles. Using miles to upgrade from economy to business class, or from business to first class, offers tremendous value, especially on long-haul flights. I recommend doing this only for flights over five hours. Not only will you travel more comfortably, but you'll also enjoy the additional perks that come with higher classes.
Using Miles for Partner Services:
Hotel Stays and Car Rentals: Emirates Skywards Miles can be redeemed for more than just flights. You can use your miles to book hotel rooms and car rentals, which can save you money on your overall travel expenses. When planning a trip, consider using miles to cover these costs.
Experience Days: Another fantastic way to spend your miles is on 'experience days' or leisure activities available through the Skywards program. Whether it's spa services, theme park admissions, or gourmet dining experiences, using your miles for these activities can make your travels more memorable. Check out: Emirates Skywards Exclusives
Cash+Miles Options:
Flexibility in Payment: Emirates offers a Cash+Miles option (look out for the icon on the right), which allows you to pay for flights using a combination of cash and miles. This can be particularly useful if you don’t have enough miles to cover the entire cost of a ticket.
Optimise Your Spend: Use the Cash+Miles option strategically. Compare how many miles you would need to spend for different segments of your travel and decide where the best value lies. Sometimes, paying a small amount of cash along with miles can significantly reduce the number of miles needed.
Redeeming for Maximum Value:
Special Promotions: Keep an eye out for special promotions where the value of miles can increase significantly. Emirates periodically offers enhanced options where fewer miles are needed for certain flights or upgrades. Look out for the email - it usually arrives around 3-5 days before your flight
Assess the Value: Always consider the value you're getting from your miles. It can be tempting to spend miles just because you have them, but sometimes it might be better to pay cash and save your miles for a more valuable redemption.
By following these strategies, you can ensure that every mile you earn is put to good use. Remember, the goal of accumulating miles is not just to collect them, but to use them in ways that enhance your travel.
Unlocking Elite Benefits Faster
As someone who loves to get the most out of every travel experience, moving up the Emirates Skywards membership tiers quickly can open up a world of fabulous travel perks. In this section, I’ll share personal insights and strategies on how to elevate your membership status faster and enjoy the elite benefits that come with higher tiers.
Understanding Tier Miles vs. Skywards Miles: First, it’s important to differentiate between Tier Miles and Skywards Miles. While Skywards Miles are what you use for bookings and upgrades, Tier Miles are specifically used to determine your membership level. You earn Tier Miles exclusively through flights operated by Emirates & flydubai and credit cards.
Strategies to gain Tier Miles quickly (similar to earning Skywards miles):
Focus on Eligible Flights: To maximize your Tier Miles, prioritise flying on Emirates and flydubai, as these are the only flights that count towards your tier qualification. Sometimes, it might be worth paying a bit more for an Emirates flight rather than choosing a cheaper alternative with another airline.
Choose Longer Routes: Longer flights generally accumulate more Tier Miles than shorter ones. If you have flexibility in travel plans, consider booking flights with a longer route to gather more miles per trip.
Take Advantage of Tier Mile Promotions: Keep an eye out for promotions that offer additional Tier Miles. Emirates occasionally runs special offers that can help you jump tiers faster. Signing up for the Emirates newsletter and following them on social media can keep you updated on these promotions.
Utilizing Status Accelerators:
Business and First Class Tickets: For those that can afford it, purchasing tickets in business or first class can accelerate your Tier Miles accumulation, as these tickets earn more Tier Miles compared to economy tickets. Even booking one business class flight a year can significantly boost your tier miles.
Frequent Flyer Bonuses: As you move up the tiers, you start earning bonus Tier Miles. For example, Silver members earn a 30% bonus on the base miles earned on Emirates flights, which can significantly speed up the process of reaching Gold.
Pooling Family Miles:
Family Benefits: Emirates Skywards offers a Family Bonus program where you can pool miles earned by family members into your account. While these do not count towards Tier Miles, having family members contribute to your Skywards Miles can free up your own earned miles for more strategic bookings that do earn Tier Miles.
Setting Goals:
Planning your flights strategically can catapult you to that next tier faster than you can say “frequent flyer.” If you need a specific number of flights or Tier Miles? Plan out your trips! For instance, if you’re eyeballing the Gold tier and have a buffet of travel plans, pick the one that fills your miles piggy bank to the fullest.
Take my case, I’m staring down the barrel of 16,271 Tier Miles to hit Gold. You bet I’ve planned my travel to stack up those miles :)
My plan
Dubai <> Cairo (Saver & Flex)
Flight 1: 420 + 1,050 = 1,470 tier miles
Flight 2: 420 + 1,050 = 1,470 tier miles
Dubai <> London (Flex Return)
Flight 1: 2,250 + 2,250 miles = 4,500 tier miles
Flight 2: 2,250 + 2,250 miles = 4,500 tier miles
Dubai <> Madrid (Flex Return)
2,250 + 2,250 = 4,500 tier miles
Total: 16,440 Tier Miles!
And remember, these precious tier miles stick around for 14 months, so plan wisely.
By following these strategies, you can not only enjoy the immediate benefits of each trip but also set yourself up for even more rewarding experiences in the future. Remember, every flight is an opportunity to move closer to the next tier, bringing more luxurious and exclusive travel perks your way!
Lesser-Known Perks and Tips
Having explored the foundational aspects of earning and redeeming Skywards Miles, let’s delve into some of the lesser-known perks and practical tips of the Emirates Skywards program. These insights can help you leverage even the most under-the-radar benefits that could make your travel experience significantly more enjoyable and efficient.
Lounge Access for Gold Members on Flydubai: Many flyers know about the lounge access that comes with Emirates Gold status, but did you know that this privilege also extends to flydubai-operated business lounges? This perk can be a game-changer for travelers using Dubai's secondary airline for regional trips.
Special Offers at Dubai Duty-Free: Emirates Skywards members can enjoy special discounts at Dubai Duty-Free. Simply show your membership card or provide your Skywards number to save on purchases from luxury goods to chocolates.
Priority Baggage Handling for Gold Members and Above: If you hate waiting at the carousel, you’ll love the priority baggage handling that comes with Gold status and above. This means your bags are among the first on the belt, saving you time after your flight.
Utilizing Family Pooling: Exploit the Family Pooling Feature: Emirates allows you to pool up to 100% of the Skywards Miles earned by family members into your account. This can accelerate your mileage accumulation significantly, especially if you travel frequently as a family. Remember, while these pooled miles don’t count towards Tier Miles, they are invaluable for redeeming awards more quickly.
Take Advantage of the Skywards Skysurfers Program: If you’re travelling with children, don’t overlook the Skywards Skysurfers program. Children aged between two and 16 can earn miles just like adults, which can then be pooled into the family account. This is a fantastic way to boost your mileage earning as a family.
Tips for Keeping Your Account Active:
Prevent Miles from Expiring: Skywards Miles expire after three years of inactivity, therefore it’s crucial to keep your account active. Simple actions like making a small purchase through the Emirates online store or taking at least one flight every three years can reset the expiration date on all your miles.
Strategic Use of the Emirates App:
Leverage the App for Easier Management: The Emirates app is not just for booking and checking in. Use it to track your miles balance, manage your upcoming trips, and even download your digital membership card. The app often offers mobile-exclusive features such as last-minute upgrades using miles, which can be a great way to enhance your travel at a lower cost.
By incorporating these lesser-known perks and practical tips into your travel planning, you can enhance the overall value and enjoyment of your trips with Emirates. Each trip doesn’t just take you to a new destination; it also brings opportunities to experience the luxury and convenience that come with being a savvy Emirates Skywards member.
Common mistakes that rookie travellers make.
Navigating any frequent flyer program comes with potential challenges. In my journey with Emirates Skywards, I've encountered a few common pitfalls that can hinder the value you get from the program. Let me guide you through these challenges and offer some tips on how to avoid them, ensuring you make the most of every mile and benefit.
Not Understanding the Fare Rules: Educate Yourself on Fare Types: A common mistake is booking the cheapest fare without understanding its restrictions and mileage earning potential. Make sure to review the differences between Saver, Flex, and Flex Plus fares. Saver fares might save you money upfront but earn fewer miles and offer less flexibility, which could cost more in the long run if plans change.
Forgetting to Include Your Skywards Number: Always Add Your Skywards Number: It’s essential to include your Skywards membership number in every booking. Failing to do so can result in not earning any miles for your flights. Always double-check that your number is included in your booking, whether you’re flying with Emirates or one of its partners.
Overlooking Partner Offers: Stay Updated on Partner Deals: Emirates Skywards has an extensive array of partner airlines, hotels, car rentals, and more. Many members miss out on easy miles by not utilizing these partnerships. Regularly check the Emirates website for the latest partner offers and try to use these services whenever possible to maximize your mile earnings.
Ignoring Expiration Dates: Track Your Miles’ Expiry: Skywards Miles expire after a set period, typically three years. It’s crucial to keep track of when your miles expire and plan to use them before that date. You can use the Emirates app or website to monitor your miles' expiration dates and plan your trips.
Misjudging Upgrades and Opportunities: Understand the Best Use of Miles: Often, members waste miles on low-value experiences. For example, using miles for an upgrade to business class on long-haul flights generally offers better value than short-haul economy.
Not Reading the Fine Print: Pay Attention to Details: Every rewards program has its fine print, and not reading these details can lead to missed opportunities or unexpected restrictions. For instance, some special flight promotions might not qualify for mile accumulation, or there could be blackout dates for using miles on certain flights. Always read the terms and conditions associated with any earning or redemption activity.
Ensure that you not only earn more miles but also use them in the most efficient and rewarding ways possible. Remember, every detail matters when it comes to maximizing the benefits of your membership.
Advanced Strategies
By now, you should have a solid grasp of how to earn and redeem Skywards Miles and understand the program's details. Let's take it a step further with some advanced strategies that can help you maximize your benefits even more. These tactics are for those who are ready to go beyond the basics and truly optimize their Emirates Skywards experience.
Leverage Stopover and Multi-City Flights:
Explore Multi-City Itineraries: One of Emirates’ strengths is its global network, which facilitates easy stopovers in Dubai and other hubs. When booking long-haul flights, consider adding a stopover or booking a multi-city ticket. This can not only enhance your travel experience but also increase the miles you earn from a single trip.
Take Advantage of Buy Miles Promotions:
Buy Miles Wisely: Occasionally, Emirates Skywards will offer promotions where you can buy miles at a discount or receive bonus miles for purchasing a certain amount. These promotions can be advantageous if you are close to a high-value upgrade but are just short of the necessary miles. Remember, buying miles should generally be done to top off your account, not as a primary method of mile accumulation.
Optimize Tier Mile Earning During Promotional Periods:
Focus on Promotional Flights: Sometimes, Emirates runs promotions offering double or even triple-tier miles for specific routes or during certain periods. Planning your travel around these promotions can accelerate your progression to a higher tier, unlocking more valuable benefits faster.
Seek Out Elite Status Challenges:
Look for Status Challenges: Occasionally, Emirates might offer fast-track opportunities or challenges that allow you to earn tier status more quickly. Participating in these challenges can be an efficient way to achieve or maintain elite status without the usual flight requirements.
Keep an Eye on Co-Branded Credit Card Offers:
Utilize Credit Card Offers: Co-branded credit cards often come with introductory offers that include large mileage bonuses. If you're planning significant purchases or can meet the spending requirements safely, these bonuses can provide a substantial mileage boost.
By employing these advanced strategies, you can further enhance your mastery of the Emirates Skywards program. Not only will these tactics help you earn miles more effectively, but they will also ensure you're squeezing every bit of value out of each mile and benefit the program offers.
Skywards+
Skywards+ is a subscription-based tier of the Emirates Skywards program designed to enhance your travelling experience with additional benefits and rewards. This paid program supplements the traditional Skywards membership, offering subscribers exclusive perks that can maximize their travel value even further. Here’s what you need to know about Skywards+ and how it can benefit your travel plans.
The program is also perfect for savvy savers. It offers discounts when using Cash+Miles for bookings, giving you the best of both worlds – more miles left in your account and less cash spent on tickets.
And that’s not all. Think about all those extra baggage fees and the hassle of securing the best seat. Skywards+ subscribers can wave goodbye to these worries with additional baggage allowances and complimentary seat selection. There’s also a reduction or complete waiver on fees for booking changes and cancellations, which is a lifesaver for those with ever-changing plans.
Let’s talk about comfort. Depending on your subscription level, Skywards+ can grant you access to Emirates' luxurious business class lounges, even when you’re flying economy. Imagine relaxing in comfort with some great food and drinks before your flight – pure bliss!
Lastly, you’ll get access to exclusive promotions and special offers that aren't available to the regular Skywards members. This means more ways to save and even more reasons to travel.
In short, if you travel frequently and enjoy the perks of the Emirates Skywards program, upgrading to Skywards+ could be a game changer for your travel experiences. More miles, more savings, and more comfort? Yes, please!
Ready to Fly Higher?
Embarking on the Emirates Skywards journey has transformed the way I travel, turning every trip into an opportunity for both adventure and reward. From the sun-soaked beaches of the Maldives to bustling city escapes in New York, each flight not only brings me to beautiful destinations but also brings me closer to the next exciting reward.
Through careful planning and strategic use of the program, I've unlocked exceptional value from my travels. Whether it’s enjoying an upgrade to business class, relaxing in luxurious airport lounges, or saving significantly on family vacations through miles redemptions, the benefits of Emirates Skywards have enriched my travel experiences immensely.
Remember, the key to success with any frequent flyer program, including Emirates Skywards, lies in understanding the details and leveraging its offerings effectively. Stay informed about the latest promotions, be proactive in managing your miles and tier status, and always plan to maximize your benefits.
To all fellow travellers eager to make the most of their journeys, I encourage you to dive deep into the program. With the strategies and insights shared in this guide, you're well-equipped to elevate your travel game.
Fast-track plan to accelerate your Skywards earning power:
✅ Sign up to Emirates Skywards and download the app.
✅ Sign up for an Emirates Skywards-partnered credit card.
✅ Download the Skywards Everyday App and link your account.
✅ Book Flex tickets on upcoming trips.
✅ Sign up for the Emirates newsletter and look out for promotions
If you're inspired to take your travel experiences to new heights, why wait? Join Emirates Skywards today and start earning miles right from your next flight. Whether you're flying for business or pleasure, every journey can bring you closer to your next reward.
Remember, the more you fly, the faster you'll unlock amazing benefits. Take advantage of everything Emirates Skywards has to offer and make every trip more rewarding.
