I just called Alitalia and successfully booked May 7-May 21 MAD-FCO-AUH-HKT (v.v)
for $1105.33
Cust service confirmed seats on Alitalia portion (2d and 2c) but on EY he asked me to call them with my record locator, but confirmed that ALL segments are in BUSINESS CLASS (E). No change fees, only fare difference, and fully refundable w/ $20 fee.
I am a happy camper