I recently flew the route CDG-DXB-CDG myself and recognize a lot of your thoughts. I took the night flight back to Paris and they served exactly the same meal but with the canape's first and breakfast before landing.
But the product was solid but noisy and old so i fill in a little complain and they give me a nice voucher.
Crew was friendly but nothing amazing. Loads were full though almost all business class seats sold out and La Premiere as well.

There still some great fares around for those who like to try the product them self.