Also, a big rationale on QFs part was to cut losses on QF International, specifically their network in Europe, which had to rely on BA last-mile stuff, which was a 2-stop solution that they felt would be better served by 1-stop out of DXB. Also the cost savings in crewing/maintenance they thought they could get by basing some operations out of DXB.

Out of the loss making Asian carriers, a lot of them can rely on some sort of state support to ensure their survival whilst perennial restructuring can take place (e.g. TG at the moment) so don't need to resort to commercial tie-ups such as QF-EK. The political minefield would be a nightmare!