ORD and LAX-I expected as much. Maybe SFO later on? This was always planned as the 2nd US destination (but apparently bumped in favour of Houston).

Emirates cannot fly inter-Japan flights because no way will they be able to get the rights and even if they do Emirates will not be able to compete with established carriers that are extremely competitive. You might counter-argue that since EK won't do well anyway given the competition the Japanese might just as well indulge them and give them the rights, well it doesn't work that way. If Emirates gets rights, it will begin direct flights. I look forward to seeing DXB-NRT. Loads of potential, only NRT eclipsed DXB in terms of annual growth rates. I'm surprised JAL or ANA don't already fly there. I'd be surprised if EK goes A380 straight away for NRT; its not like they have an unlimited number, plus they would usually open NRT with a smaller aircraft and fly the A380s on the 'established' routes.