All - searched for a few minutes, didn't see a sticky specific to upgrade waitlist basics. Here's my issue:

1) SIN-DXB-JFK, revenue J
2) Colleague with Gold upgraded me to F SIN-DXB. DXB-JFK not currently available, I'm flying on a Saturday on the flight that leaves DXB around 0230.
3) Colleague tells me I'm waitlisted on DXB-JFK segment for an upgrade to F. I trust him, though res on website/app doesn't indicate this.
4) I've set up ExpertFlyer alerts. No awards released just yet. I've monitored every Saturday for the past several months and have NEVER seen awards released.
5) I'm contemplating booking away, but that's not really important.

What I was hoping to understand includes:

1) Is EK good at managing waitlists? AA, CX & SQ are not, in my experience. Quite often awards are released but waitlists aren't cleared simultaneously, so I've needed to call in to get the upgrade.
2) When does the WL drop off? Inside of 24 hours? Once checked in but not upgraded?
3) Can upgrades be accomplished during/after the first segment is flown?
4) In the event nothing happens, how do cash upgrades work at DXB and is one eligible after the first segment is flown?

Basically, if this was any of the U.S. airlines, or CX, or SQ, I wouldn't be wasting your time. But my searches didn't yield many specifics about EK. Put yourself in my shoes and advise!!

Thanks in advance - Jamie