Hmmm. I’m not a fan.

Likewise, I definitely prefer Le Meridien even if JWM is theoretically more premium, especially on a layover where being close to the airport has increased value.

Yep. I use Dubai Connect when I have a short turnaround. All the way to Business Bay, I might as well go home then. And I don’t find JWM particularly premium. IMO, it’s a zoo.

Yeah - it was used as a backup prior to Covid.

I'm at the Le Meridien now, and it doesn't seem that busy. I was the only one in the lounge when Happy Hour started. A bit different from last time (over Christmas).

And some of the locals are animals ( [MENTION=592613]m3red[/MENTION] ).

As I've posted before on the Marriott forum, JWM feels like a Las Vegas hotel that got dumped in the middle of Dubai...

The old JW was lovely - in an old fashioned way.

Anyone was successful in getting Dubai connect for a layover less than 10 hours?

I have a connection of 9 Hours and 55 Minutes and it's not eligible. Only 5 minutes off. :(

Cut off is 8 hours for all classes now (First and Business used to be 6 hours).

https://www.emirates.com/uk/english/...dubai-connect/

Also, Emirates will not approve DC for a layover in excess of 8 hours if a shorter layover is possible. Choosing the longest period between flights in order to get a DC booking will not work. I can't imagine why anyone would want to create a delay for themselves for that reason!

However, I know that the system is glitchy and occasionally offers DC despite there being flights that mean a shorter layover is possible. I have been offered DC twice when I could have chosen a later flight into Dubai. I used it of course!

Same here, was offered DC on a ‘not shortest’ connection. But that was clearly an error and I expected it to be declined when I asked for the vouchers at check in. But everything was honoured so we were happy!

It's the sort of thing I can't refuse, even though I know the rules say I'm not entitled to it.

It's up to Emirates to fix this glitch. Until then, my honesty will continue to take a small holiday!

Landing DXB around 1720 and 1055+1 outbound. Any issues going to F lounge for some lamb before heading to the STPC hotel?

I always eat breakfast in the lounge - gotta try their dinner.

That should be fine, but you'll need to go back the wrong way through transit security to join the arrivals steam.

However, you do realise that you'll get a meal provided at the hotel? There's a choice from a number of restaurants (assuming it's the Le Meridien).

Last few times I flew F, its always been the JWMarriott Marquis. Meals are all at Kitchen6 which serves a buffet and you need to show your BP - they don't give out any vouchers. The spread is decent though.