First Look: Emirates Unveils First A380 With Refreshed Cabin & Interiors

After 2 months of refurbishment, Emirates has debuted its first A380 with refreshed cabins and interiors.

The 3-year-old Airbus A380, A6-EVM, surprised passengers on the flight from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) on Friday, January 6, 2023, and we’ve got the first look.

Let’s see what’s new on board …

A380 Cabin Refresh Program

Last year, Emirates announced improvements to the onboard experience, including both the menu and cabin. The menu was rolled out in September 2022, and now aircraft are being delivered.

As part of a multi-billion dollar investment, 120 Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft will receive reupholstered seats, new cabin walls, carpeting, and more.

“Thousands of parts will be removed, replaced, or receive a facelift. Even Emirates’ famous Shower Spa will feature new color tones with a hand-stenciled motif of a Ghaf tree,” according to Emirates.

The first A380 to be completed in this 2-year retrofit program has been delivered featuring the addition of a new premium economy class, an updated bar area, and a refreshed first class.

First Look

Passengers familiar with the Game Changer first class suites will instantly recognize the design of the refreshed A380.

Dark wood and gold have been swapped for lighter and softer tones … but gold is still quite present, don’t worry!

The Shower Spa has also received the new color tone treatment, along with the hand-stenciled Ghaf tree.

The bar extends the styling and continues to be a great place to enjoy part of the flight.

Business class on the A380.

And the new Premium Economy has been installed as well.

First class in bed mode.

First class door.

First class headrest details.

The food and beverages options continue to be a highlight.

Hot Tip: Learn the best ways to book Emirates first class using points in our step-by-step guide, as well as what direct routes Emirates operates to and from the U.S.!

Final Thoughts

Emirates has long made a luxurious customer experience a priority, and these refurbishments ensure that passengers “fly better” for the coming years.

Flying the A380 is an incredible experience with 2 floors and an onboard shower, but the design was starting to show its age compared to the stunning Game Changer first class suites found on the 777.

Now, passengers flying the A380 will start to see the same leather, color, textures, and overall design carried over from the newer aircraft.