Comparing the Business Class offerings of Emirates and ANA, with a focus on the A380 onboard bar and 'The Room' suite configuration.
In the hyper-competitive world of Business Class, two carriers often dominate the conversation for long-haul travel: Emirates and ANA. Each offers a product that significantly outpaces the industry average, yet they cater to very different sensibilities. At Peters Signature Travel, we have analyzed the nuances of the Emirates A380 and the ANA 'The Room' to help our clients navigate their next transcontinental flight.
The flagship Emirates Business Class experience is found on the Airbus A380. The seat is a comfortable, staggered 1-2-1 configuration with a mini-bar and a tablet for controlling the ICE entertainment system. However, the true highlight is the onboard lounge. For many, the ability to stand up and enjoy a cocktail with fellow travelers at a horseshoe-shaped bar is the defining feature of Emirates. It turns a long flight into a social event.
ANA, on the other hand, shocked the industry with 'The Room.' Available on their newest Boeing 777-300ERs, this seat is widely considered the best Business Class seat in the world. It is twice as wide as a standard business class seat, featuring a sliding door that creates a totally private sanctuary. There is no onboard bar, and the focus is entirely on the individual's personal space. Our team notes that while Emirates feels like a private club, ANA 'The Room' feels like a high-end apartment in Minato-ku.
Emirates’ ICE (Information, Communication, Entertainment) system is consistently voted the best in the world. With thousands of channels, including live sports and news, it is nearly impossible to be bored. The hardware is sleek, and the interface is intuitive.
ANA’s technology in 'The Room' is equally impressive, featuring a huge 24-inch 4K screen. While their content library may not be as exhaustive as the Emirates ICE system, the visual quality is superior. For travelers who want to immerse themselves in a cinematic experience, ANA’s screen is breathtaking. For travelers who want to watch live Premier League matches or an endless array of global cinema, Emirates is the victor.
Emirates offers a menu that is consistently high-quality, with a focus on international and Middle Eastern flavors. The service is efficient and the presentation is elegant. They excel in comfort food—perfectly cooked steaks, rich pastas, and indulgent desserts.
ANA provides a choice between International and Japanese menus. We almost always recommend the Japanese option. It is a masterclass in texture and balance, often featuring grilled fish, pickled vegetables, and miso soup. It is lighter and more refreshing than the typically richer Emirates fare. ANA also offers a 'dine on demand' light meal menu that includes high-quality ramen and curry, which are perfect for mid-flight cravings.
The ambiance on Emirates is vibrant. The cabin is bright, the crew is lively, and the 'stars' on the ceiling provide a sense of wonder. It is a high-energy environment. ANA is the opposite. The cabin is quiet, the lighting is soft, and the atmosphere is one of profound respect. The crew’s attention to detail is legendary—they will often fold your clothes or leave a handwritten note if they notice you are celebrating a special occasion.
The decision between Emirates and ANA Business Class hinges on what you value most in your journey. If you appreciate the social aspect of travel—the ability to move around, have a drink at a bar, and enjoy a massive selection of movies—Emirates is unrivaled. If you are seeking the ultimate in privacy and space, where you can close a door and disappear into a wide bed with a 4K screen, ANA 'The Room' is the current pinnacle of the industry.
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