No matter now. The EK changes are what they are. I have now made my next booking with QR and their more frequent flights will not make things "so tight for me" - even if they make a 10 or even 30 minute schedule change

I expect no changes to their schedule (as I also do expect with any airline when I book with them). But you never know.

Thanks to all for the input. I will see if my Boss is understanding and will let me leave the meeting early... Fingers crossed.