Now I never thought I would end up spending so much time on aircraft as I now do; and for it to be predominately long haul
Being based in Dubai I have predominately used emirates naturally but I have also racked up a silly amount with Etihad because of better flight times to the US.

So who is best carrier ?

Emirates hands down every time, there is just no contest, at every stage they out perform Etihad

So now you know

I had the pleasure of flying from Dubai to Doha each week for 18 months. Built up lots of Emirates airmiles, got silver/gold which allowed me free lounge access (great in doha after a week there) and about 5 upgrades to business...

Used some of my airmiles to get from dubai to glasgow in march. Got a free upgrade to first class on arrival at gate.

Only one winner for me!

would use neither for personal flights. completely overpriced for flights ex-UAE
always used Emirates flying from Singapore where they were competitive.

Travelling economy or business class? I really like Etihad business.

Since I have now moved to the Philippines,
Please be careful on this this topic.
On a certain Aviation web site ALL TALK about EY has been banned.
EY do not like any bad or any other wise comments on there service.
No I am not employed by Etihad or as some say Emptyhad.
With the major unrest within EK at the moment, a very interesting time ahead for both airlines.
For me travelling to / from Manila and Bahrain I like Etihad certainly in Business class.

PPRuNe Forums - Professional Pilots Rumour Network ?

YES !! legal action was threatened on the web site if all posting about EY left on. Sad really so much to freedom of speech.

Both are grossly overpriced for this region but Emirates does a better job of making you feel happy while robbing you blind

For those of us from Scotland, Etihad have just announced an Abu Dhabi-Edinburgh route.

We have an 8 hour flight duration to get business class so trips to UK and china are economy. Flights to US, Oz and NZ business. Bearing in mind the previous comments, the non emirates airline are pants in comparison. I have been on some sad tired non emirates 340's to the US where seats don't work and hostess are rude. I admit I try and fly a380's on long haul because the quietness of the cabin helps me sleep better and the non emirates don't have em yet.
When i am shelling my own cash as next week, I still fly emirates

Saudia rock!

Changed that for you....

boddom!

husband flies regularly with both airlines, prefers Emirates.

Amen. I don't really enjoy flying that much. I want it to be as good as possible, so Emirates economy (especially A380) gives me the best option, even if a bit more expensive than BA/Virgin etc.