I didn't encounter any problems getting the STPC for the Le Meridien DXB on my trip CAI-DXB-SYD in F in January (10 hours layover) except that I had to ask for it specifically when tickets where issued at EK's CAI Le Meridien office well in advance. The agent put a remark into my PNR and on the day of my trip the EK agent who delivered my boarding passes to me at CAI's infamous "transit lounge" brought the voucher with him.