Emirates has introduced what it calls the world's first electrically powered Premium Economy seat with a full-height, adjustable privacy screen, debuting the design on its newly received Airbus A350 aircraft.
For travellers weighing up cabin choices out of Dubai, the update marks a significant step up for Premium Economy, a class Emirates launched in 2022 and now offers on all routes served by the A350.
What's new in the cabin
The A350's Premium Economy cabin seats 28 passengers in a 2-3-2 layout. Each seat is 20 inches wide, with pitch reaching up to 39 inches, and reclines into a cradle position that does not intrude into the row behind.
The standout feature is the electrically operated privacy divider, which passengers can raise or lower using seat controls and lock into place. It works alongside an integrated Passenger Control Unit offering preset options including a lounge mode and a meal mode.
Comfort details include the new U-Dream headrest by Safran Seats, made of leather with adjustable wings, and a manually deployable leather footrest. Premium Economy also gets wireless charging for the first time, alongside USB-C ports at every seat and a tray table fitted with an integrated phone holder. Entertainment comes via a 13.3-inch touchscreen with 4K HDR technology.
On the exterior, the A350 now offers new left and right aircraft camera views for passengers, in addition to the existing forward and downward perspectives.
Dining, drinks and design partnerships
Meals in Premium Economy are prepared by Emirates' chefs and served on Royal Doulton fine china with Robert Welch stainless-steel cutlery.
The drinks list has also expanded. Chandon Vintage Brut 2021 is now available exclusively to Emirates Premium Economy customers worldwide. From September, Chablis Premier Cru Jean-Marc Brocard 2024 and La Parde de Haut-Bailly 2014 join select routes, and in October, Wiston Estate Brut NV becomes Emirates' first English sparkling wine, served exclusively in Premium Economy on UK routes. Emirates has invested more than US$1 billion in its wine portfolio since 2006.
Amenity kits have been redesigned in partnership with United for Wildlife, using bio-based materials including cactus leather alternatives, and now include plant-powered skincare products from Aveda.
Recognition for the cabin class
Emirates' Premium Economy has already picked up industry recognition, winning 'Best Premium Economy Class' at the Business Traveller Middle East Awards in both 2024 and 2025, and being named 'Airline with the Best Premium Economy Class' at the 2025 ULTRAs Awards.
With the new seat now flying on the A350, Emirates is positioning Premium Economy as a more defined middle tier between Economy and Business, giving Dubai-based travellers another reason to consider the class on long-haul routes.