Emirates Airline online Visa Application Service (VFS Global)



I just booked an Emirates Airline flight and was excited at the fact that I can now apply for my visa via the emirates.com booking portal for Dubai since I was going to be in transit.  So I scanned all the documents into my computer and uploaded it as requested like the passport copy, proof of address and pasport picture.  Then I paid for the visa + an additional security deposit.

I got an email a few hours later asking for all visas to the Europe and USA and if I was ever declined entry to the above.  I mean really, wtf does this have to do with Dubai?  So I reply with all the info and then I get an email asking for proof of an investment of $8000 or more.  Are these guys for real??

Sent them the investment details and the application is still pending after travelling to Dubai 5 times previously without a hitch.  I then find out Emirates outsourced the Visa Application process to VFS Global who is based in INDIA.  What a whirlwind frustrating, annoying, irratating experience.  My advice is to book with a travel agent for your visas. DO NOT USE THE ONLINE SERVICE, take my word for it....

SAA Voyager is One Useless Excuse for a Frequent Flyer Programme

SAA Voyager has to be the most useless frequent flyer programme that exists:

1.  Very limited flight options.

2.  No miles sharing between members or even family members.

3.  Can only be redeemed for one resort, health spas and car hire.  REALLY???

4.  Whenever you want to travel the damn flights are always booked upto 1 year in advance.

5.  The taxes are so high, you rather just buy the ticket from another airline cheaper.

So I have to ask myself again, why the hell do I have SAA Voyager??  The Emirates skywards programme is amazing.  Since moving over to them as a loyal frequent flyer I am amazed at the options and felxibility.  SAA is in serious need of educated people to help them forward...

Emirates Skywards - Frequent Flyer changes from 01/01/2010

If you are a skywards member, I suggest you take heed of the new changes.  For those of you that make the most out of your miles, beware because its going to get a little harder to get things for free.

The biggest change is the number of miles granted per sector is based on the fare that you pay.  Although Emirates is one of the last to introduce this approach, it what kept them popular.

Emirates are making too many mistakes for a magnificent brand, they should rather look at why customers are loyal as oppose to how much more many they can make. 

Look at their new skywards changes here

Durban Airport Customs - Emirates Flight

Emirates Airline launced a new route to Durban, South Africa from the 1st October 2009.  This new service has proven to be very convenient except flights are not very full.  Well Emirates people, let me tell you why:

1.  Emirates is using an old aircraft and an entertainment system that is substandard, not the usual ice entertainment.

2.  The business class passengers are flying economy as the business class comfort certainly does not warrant the fare. The seats are cramped and once again substandard due to the old aircraft.

3.  And heres the biggest problem of all.  Durban Airport Customs are searching through bags for upto an hour after the flight has landed looking for ways and means of making extra money, hence passengers rather fly through Johannesburg (especially locals).

Thats all im going to say right now.  You better up your game Emirates or you will flying out of Durban Airport faster than you arrived. 

PS. For those that dont know, Emirates flies out of Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town with a total of 5 flights a day.  Gearing up for the world cup I suppose...

Emirates Business Class Offer

I love Emirates, the airline is amazing, staff, service etc.  And once again, I dont get paid for this blog:)  The latest offer is 25% off the companion business ticket.  For all those who can afford it, its well worth.  Remember the new airbus is on certain routes only and I suggest spoiling yourself once in your life atleast.  Offer expires 31st october 2009

By the way, Emirates is rated as a 4 star airline.

Go to : http://www.emirates.com/ for more info.