How to get emirates on the phone?
 

Of course I understand phone systems will have long hold time (even hours) due to current virus, but I've been completely unable to get Emirates on the phone for the last 5-6 days.

Either the automated system says "we will call you back between 4 hours and 6 hours", so I pick the callback option, never get the callback. Tried this many many times
Or the automated system doesn't give callback option, so I keep my phone on hold all day (over 8 hours) while I do my work on the side etc - no one ever picks up and phone disconnects.

I'm calling the general emirates number 1 (800) 777-3999 . Is there a better number to get a human? My flight is now getting closer which needs a human emirates agent for some changes and I"m concerned i'll be completely unable to contact them.

Do you have Twitter? I've not used it myself, but I know a couple of people who say they get great service from EK CS via Twitter.

I had to hold the line for nearly 2 hours (Swiss Customer Service number) and had a lovely and extremely professional agent who rebooked my Oman flights without any fuss. Thank you Rita!

Use the UK number for english, not as long

Press 1 for "travelling first or business class" even if you're not, and get connected right away.

Two changes in past 3 days phoning UK number and connected quickly both times. The system recognised my number though which may have helped.

If you have any friends with decent status you cold 'borrow' the skywards number for the prompt..

Thanks everyone, someone finally picked up after 4 hours today! They were nice and courteous and fast.

Refunding ticket
 

My relative in Australia was due to fly on 25/3. Aussies have now been told not to travel overseas for the foreseeable future. She cant get through to Emirates. She wants to request a refund not a postponement but first of all wants to know how much she would get back ( economy saver) . There is no option for this information, just to cancel the seat. Does anyone know any further details?

Depends where she was traveling, EK will only refund for any locations it says the route is cancelled. Otherwise travel insurance may be your best bet if coverage exists

Shes travelling to UK and that route is still operational. Its just the travel advice from the Aus government says not to travel overseas. Her insurance company are saying that coronavirus is not covered ( despite the fact that she took it out before the virus was around)

Use the online chat or Twitter, worst case she can do a free date change.

Does Emirates have a dedicated phone number in the US for Gold members? Or is it only through the IVR? Calling the 3999 number keeps getting the 'due to the high number of calls right now, we are unable to answer your call at the moment.' UK line gets the same, I was able to get through with the Singapore number but it's still a long wait. There was no option in the IVR for gold members, even in the one time I got through to the US number.

when I get that I usually try calling back a few times and eventually get through

Just call the Dubai number, I always get through asap