I tried searching for EK, Emirates, Bag, and Baggage, but to no avail. I am flying in a few months to DXB and from there taking EK to see the family in HYD. According to the Emirates website, this is what I can expect to take to India with me:

Two checked bags for which the length plus breadth plus height (L+B+H) should not exceed 45ins/115cms per bag. Maximum weight 32kgs/70lbs.
PLUS
1 [carry-on] bag (22 X 15 X 8INS / 55 X 38 X 20CMS). Weight must not exceed 7kgs/15lbs.

Is this true? My beloved Tumi that travels carry-on with me is 22x14x10 - at 46" even that is too big to be checked in in DXB. Plus, I am going to India... 1 salwar would fill an entire bag at that size!!!

Any ways around this without paying some massive excess baggage fee? And on that topic, it appears that you can pay $25 (USD) for overweight bags that are in transit from elsewhere, but I couldn't find the cost for overweight bags when travel originates in DXB. Also, would the same fee apply to oversized bags?

I'm not trying to take the kitchen sink with me or anything, but I had hoped to bring two 25x17x11 suitcases (the next size up from the standard US carry-on rolling suitcase). Unthinkable?

Also, how strictly is this 15lbs carry-on limit enforced? I'll have a backpack with me, which would meet the size requirements, but my t60 and assorted peripherals (charger, backup battery, etc) would eat up the bulk of my 15 lbs... .

Thanks for the help!