Well, I've opted to move the flights (as that's free thankfully) to September as I need to be back in the UK for a wedding. Still no upgrade availability though on 11th Sept or anywhere near those dates according to the girl on the phone, so I really do have to wonder how on earth I'm ever going to spend these miles?! I'm back on the "waitlist" but I don't really understand how long that will take, I assume it's until the day of the flight?

As for the price, I was happy to pay the premium for Emirates, as I thought I could upgrade to business as there was availability. As it turns out I'm unable to, so I do feel a little cheated as I could have booked elsewhere and got a full business return ticket.

I hear what you're saying about the computer keeping things fair which I do understand, I just wish it was easier to check on upgrade fare availability on Emirates' website. I didn't know they had different classes within the business class seats and the ones I need to book were full.

Live and learn I guess!