Prices are always unpredictable, but I would expect them to go back down again. In addition to setting a price alert, check them daily, as it could happen at any time and by the time you get an alert the fare could be gone. IME, they do go down after the holidays, but it could be Jan or Feb. They usually go up around the holidays when people may be giving trips as a present, but anything can happen.

Sorry, but I cannot be of any help on the Qatar vs Emirates question, although either is likely better in coach than KE.