Emirates Unveils Upgraded Boeing 777 with Premium Economy on Routes to Beirut, Beijing, and Beyond – Everything You Need to Know

Published on December 17, 2025

Emirates has launched its newly retrofitted Boeing 777 aircraft on high-demand routes to Beirut, Lebanon, and Beijing, China. This significant upgrade brings the airline’s Premium Economy cabin to new destinations, enhancing the travel experience for passengers on these long-haul flights. Starting from January 6, 2026, the retrofitted Boeing 777 will operate on flights EK953 and EK954 to Beirut, and from February 1, 2026, it will serve Beijing with flights EK306 and EK307. This expansion not only offers passengers improved comfort and service, but it also underscores Emirates’ commitment to providing a top-tier travel experience across its global network.

A New Era of Comfort: Emirates’ Refurbished Boeing 777

The newly refurbished Boeing 777 features a modernized interior design with contemporary colours, distinctive Ghaf Tree motifs, and elegant wood finishes, setting a new standard for long-haul travel. The aircraft now offers four cabin classes: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class. This well-balanced configuration ensures every passenger, whether flying for business or leisure, enjoys a more comfortable journey with upgraded features. The new aircraft is particularly designed to meet the growing demand for premium services on both medium- and long-haul routes.

Premium Economy: What’s New for Travelers?

Emirates’ Premium Economy is a significant upgrade, offering a level of comfort and convenience that has been previously exclusive to Business and First Class. Passengers in this class will enjoy wide leather seats, featuring deep reclines and generous legroom, complete with adjustable headrests and footrests. The seating is designed with comfort in mind, ensuring a relaxing journey even on long flights. In addition, the new seats come with in-seat charging facilities, a wood-finished side table, and a 13.3-inch personal screen, ensuring passengers can enjoy entertainment, work, or relax during their flight.

Travelers in Premium Economy will also receive enhanced amenities such as larger pillows, blankets, and complimentary amenity kits on selected routes. To top it off, they will have the privilege of enjoying Chandon Vintage Brut 2017 as part of their in-flight experience, making it a premium choice for travelers.

Expanded Premium Economy Options: Beirut and Beijing Take the Lead

Beirut becomes the latest addition to the growing list of cities serviced by Emirates’ retrofitted aircraft. The new Premium Economy service provides a luxurious option for passengers flying to the Lebanese capital. Flights EK953 and EK954 will provide connections to major Lebanese diaspora hubs around the world, including cities like Sydney, New York, and Montreal, allowing for smoother transfers and a consistent in-flight experience across the Emirates network.

Meanwhile, Beijing becomes the fourth city in mainland China to receive this upgraded service, following Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong. With this addition, travelers flying to and from Beijing can now experience the comfort and luxury of Premium Economy, making it an even more attractive option for travelers from Europe, the Americas, and Africa.

Refined Business Class: Maximizing Comfort and Privacy

The Business Class cabin has also received an upgrade, offering a 1-2-1 seating configuration, allowing all passengers to enjoy direct aisle access and greater privacy. The Champagne-coloured leather seats provide an extra layer of comfort with refined stitching and soft, cushioned headrests. Whether traveling for business or leisure, passengers will find the cabin design ideal for long-haul comfort and convenience.

The refreshed Business Class cabins include ample space for personal items, as well as in-seat charging ports and large, high-resolution screens. The design is tailored to offer greater comfort and privacy, ensuring a premium travel experience for all passengers on these long-haul flights.

Travel Tips for Passengers Flying to Beirut and Beijing

For travelers flying to Beirut, be sure to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Despite its tumultuous past, Beirut is known for its resilience and lively atmosphere. Visitors should explore the downtown area, where they can experience a blend of modern shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. Additionally, don’t miss out on a visit to Beirut’s Corniche for stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

In Beijing, travelers can immerse themselves in China’s ancient heritage. Highlights include the Forbidden City, Great Wall of China, and Temple of Heaven, all offering a glimpse into China’s majestic imperial past. Moreover, modern attractions like the 798 Art Zone and Beijing’s vibrant shopping districts provide a balance between old and new.

Conclusion: Emirates Reinforces Its Commitment to Passenger Comfort

Emirates’ introduction of the retrofitted Boeing 777 with Premium Economy on flights to Beirut and Beijing signifies a major milestone for the airline in its ongoing efforts to improve the in-flight experience for passengers. With an emphasis on comfort, luxury, and affordability, Emirates is setting the bar high for airlines globally. Whether you’re traveling to the dynamic city of Beirut or the historic metropolis of Beijing, Emirates ensures a premium and seamless travel experience that caters to the evolving needs of modern travelers.