I just came back from a DXB - KWI flight and had the opportunity to chat with an EK crew. I asked her about the gold privileges (I told her I read stories online that you can request a first class dessert if you are flying in economy and she denied that this was possible.)
I then asked her if I can get a pillow from business class and again denied. I finally asked her if at least I can get dental/shaving kits from the lavatories and again she denied.
I then told her then the only benefit is the personal greeting (which literally means nothing if such requests are declined) and then she just said that I can upgrade onboard if I'm a GOLD member.......
After this flight I should be silver now, but not really sure if gold is worth spending extra for or I should stay in silver...... Anyways just wanted to share my experience here.