I second the that! The first and only time I flew EK I joined Skywards so that I could pre-select my seats in Y. I did this about 5 months before flying. Not only were none of the pre-selected seats available (eventhough I had confirmed them with EK directly a few days before) when flying, but the seats and pitch were the most cramped I have ever experienced on a long-haul flight! The only saving grave was the IFE which kept me busy as there was no way of getting some sleep. Service was OK, but SAA Y service is miles ahead.
And I really don't know what all the fuss about DXB airport is all about? Maybe as a C/F traveller....???