Thx for the responses.
I'll wait until Mon US time and call the RTW desk back as you suggest.
You're correct pandaperth in assuming that I don't actually want to visit DXB & MCT. I've visited both of those before, and while I would happily visit Muscat again, time does not permit me to on this trip. (I have absolutely no desire to set foot outside DXB airport ever again). Unfortunately the qff earnings on Qatar not good so I am somewhat constrained in my options. (LHR-DOH-CDG-DOH-LHR is 90 SC less than DXB & MCT) But if AA wont accomodate I may take up your suggestion. Thx.