I did a trip two weeks ago, manchester - Dubai - Bangkok return on a first class ticket. On th Manchester - Dubai leg there is no first class cabin, BUT I was entitled to use the first class lounge on the way out and back.

Just on line checked in for this trip, Manchester - Dubai - Kuala Lumpur return, again First class ticket, and have been invited to use the business class lounge in Dubai on my way back. Coming out, I could use the First class lounge, so why the difference ?

It's not my fault there are only 2 cabins on the manchester leg.

I have emailed EK and asked, but would be interested to see if anyone else has had the same problem.