Today's flight was 100% full with absolutely no spare seats. The Canadian government has placed heavy restrictions on the ME3 (Emirates, Etihad and Qatar) airlines flying to Canada, only allowing three flights a week for each airline and hence there is very high demand for the very few flights. For comparison, Emirates has 50+ flights to Australia per week versus only the restricted three to Canada.

These heavy flight restrictions imposed by the Canadian government on UAE airlines have had ramifications for the relations between Canada and the UAE, with the UAE forcing the closure of Camp Mirage in Dubai, Canada's only military base in the Gulf region, successfully lobbying to thwart Canada's bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council and for a time requiring expensive visa's for Canadians wishing to visit the UAE.

The small (left) and large (right) IFE remotes. There was also a personal mini-bar with various drinks such as water, Perrier, Pepsi, OJ etc.


A glass of yellow label Veuve Clicquot champagne that was served soon after boarding.


The men's amenity kit.