This mirrors my experience completely. Also, whomever posted the eerily empty DXB-KHI logs - I'd be curious to compare timing breakdowns. IMO, the "commuter" times will have full F/C and ~80% Y with no op-ups available (or all taken). Odd given the short hope nature, most people must be paying for the fare upfront.

Random times will net you near-empty planes (guaranteed op-up), also I've noticed that KHI-AUH is almost always guaranteed op-up. Depending on where in DXB you are living / staying, this is a good alternative (assuming you're switching away from EK and have a driver).