Which FF Program for me?
 

(Also posted on the Emirates forum)

I may be traveling from IAH to UAE 6-8 times a year for the next 2-3 years. My destination would be AUH but I'm curious about EK non-stop IAH-DXB.

I'm Global Services on UA (invitation only above 1K) and am pretty flexible on routing and connections - I have extremely low expectations after flying UA for the past 12 years!

Most flights will be personal (not business expense) in Y. Award travel would be US to Africa, South Asia, ME.

Questions:

Pros and Cons of EY vs. EK? Ground transportation from DXB to AUH? Mileage earning / redemption better with either program?

Would either program status-match or challenge-match my UA level?

Do I just stay top status on UA and connect in FRA or IST? How are non-EK / non-EY arrivals and departures?

Any other tips or recommendations?

Thanks,
Tom

DXB T2 is a terminal I'd avoid both ways, so avoid LH/TK etc. EK's T3 by contrast is a haven although it's a fairly big place. AUH by contrast is a much smaller terminal.

Dubai to Abu Dhabi is less than an hour away. EK provide free shuttle buses. I'd lean towards them over EY. For mileage park'em with EK.

You may be able to get a status match with either airlines, not sure about the process.

Hi tomanova, we will be more than happy to assist and answer your questions. Kindly contact our Etihad Guest Team (The contact details are available on our website etihadguest.com)

Please do let us know if you need any help :)

*ES

Personally I'd fly EY, EY is cheaper, AUH has pre-clearance for US, AUH is your end destination and EY is a fantastic product.

That said I prefer DXB to AUH, Emirates CS is beyond amazing and there is little difference aside from price between the two. Still I'll always fly both, depends who pays :p