So I'm moving to Dubai from Texas, USA for the next 3+ years. Between now and the end of 2013, I will take 2.5 trips between IAH to DXB. My concern is whether I should stick with MileagePlus and the star alliance, switch to the Emirates program, or straddle both.

Currently, I have about 43k miles this year with United's mileageplus. If I book my one way to Dubai on United, this will bump me to the MileagePlus gold and hence the Star Alliance gold. My two options as I see them:

1. Straddle: Book my one way to Dubai on United to get Star Alliance gold, then my 2 round trips with Emirates which will give me over 25k miles, and the first privilege level with them. Then, use each as needed in 2014 and beyond.

2. Keep all in with MileagePlus / Star Alliance to consolidate my medium level miles for booking rewards tickets.

Also, online reviews appear to show me that the United Economy Plus seats I would get for these 15 hour flights IAD to DXB are a significantly better experience than economy on the Emirates IAH to DXB 777-300.

Input or advice would be welcome. I need to book for an Oct 21 flight, so looking to make a decision in a day or two. I'm leaning towards option 1 above, but not sure if I'm underestimating:
- Increased comfort with the United Economy Plus over the packed 3x4x3 Emirates economy flights.
- Accessibility of flights from DXB through Emirates vs the Star Alliance

Thoughts? Thanks.