Well this timing is quite strange. After our incredible around the world trip, Emirates dropped a major shift in its loyalty program with its banking partners. Citibank, American Express, and Chase across the board is devaluing the Skywards points currency. This unfortunately means that Emirates First Class — one of the most aspirational experiences in commercial aviation — will be quite limiting going forward.
Citibank
Effective immediately, Citibank changed its ThankYou points to Skywards miles transfer ratio from 1000:1000 to 1000:800
American Express
Effective September 16th 2025, AMEX Membership Rewards to Skyward miles transfer ratio will change from 1000:1000 to also 1000:800 (5:4)
Chase
Effective October 16th 2025, Chase will terminate its partnership getting rid of the ability to transfer to the Skywards program altogether.
First Class Restriction
If this wasn’t bad enough, Emirates is blocking First Class awards for non-elite members. Similar to Air France, this means you need elite status to even be allowed to use miles to redeem for First Class. Better savor that sip of Dom Pérignon P2 more…
No matter how you stack it, flying Emirates First Class around the world will be quite challenging soon with miles. With its already high prices, the further bank devaluations and elite restrictions makes it almost not worth it to splurge. Nevertheless for those that never did it, I personally think it’s a bucket list dream everyone should experience.
Chai Bear World 