Wow, rmmcdaniel, thanks!
...excellent advice all around.
I'm hopeful EK (in MLE) can check us in for the UA flights. A year ago that was not a problem with EK and CO, so hopefully UA is no different.
We have eight hours in KWI, so we will do our best to stay on the gate side and try the lounge. It would also be nice to avoid the visa hurdle(s).
Again, thanks.