Watch the recording of our TPG Talks webinar on Emirates Skywards and the carrier's new credit card
Despite many international travel restrictions still in effect, a large number of Americans are looking forward to their first post-pandemic trip outside the country. And when it's time, using points and miles can be a great way to minimize your out-of-pocket expense — or splurge for a top-shelf, premium-class ticket.
If this sounds like something up your alley, you'll definitely want to listen to a recording of our most recent TPG Talks webinar, featuring two executives from an airline known for its lavish suites and over-the-top amenities.
Joining me on the session was Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, divisional senior vice president of Emirates Skywards, and Essa Ahmad, divisional vice president, U.S. & Canada at Emirates. During the webinar, we took a close look at various aspects of the carrier's operations and Skywards loyalty program — taking time to focus on the Emirates cobranded credit cards with Barclays and the new offer that just launched this week.
Emirates has always had top-notch first- and business-class products, but this took on new significance with the launch of the spectacular new first-class suite onboard its new Boeing 777-300ER back in 2017. Even during the pandemic, the carrier has maintained most of the appeal of flying these premium classes (albeit with some modifications for safety).
However, the in-flight experience isn't the only reason to consider Emirates. Its Skywards loyalty program can present some great value for U.S.-based travelers.
For starters, it's one of the only programs to partner with all four of the major transferable point programs — though the 2:1 transfer ratio with Capital One means you should focus on American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards or Citi ThankYou Rewards. It also made some notable changes to award tickets at the height of the pandemic, significantly reducing fuel surcharges on its own flights booked through Skywards.
In addition, the carrier offers a pair of cobranded credit cards through Barclays, and the new offer includes not just bonus Skywards miles but discounts on your next Emirates ticket. This can be a great option to boost your account balance while also saving on an upcoming flight. There are other programs out there to book Emirates awards, but these cards could be a good way to diversify your rewards strategy.
Here's a full video recording of the webinar:
TPG featured card
at Bilt's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 1X | Choose to earn up to 1X points on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee |
| 2X | Earn 2X points + the option to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases |
Pros
- Choice to earn up to 1 Bilt Point per dollar spent on rent and mortgage payments
- Elevated everyday earnings with both Bilt Points and the option to earn Bilt Cash
- $400 Bilt Travel Portal hotel credit per year (up to $200 biannually)
- $200 Bilt Cash annually
- Priority Pass membership
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Moderate annual fee
- Designed primarily for members seeking a premium, all-in-one card
- Earn points on housing with no transaction fee
- Choose to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday spend. Use Bilt Cash to unlock point earnings on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee, up to 1X.
- 2X points on everyday spend
- $400 Bilt Travel Hotel credit. Applied twice a year, as $200 statement credits, for qualifying Bilt Travel Portal hotel bookings.
- $200 Bilt Cash (awarded annually). At the end of each calendar year, any Bilt Cash balance over $100 will expire.
- Welcome bonus (subject to approval): 50,000 Bilt Points + Gold Status after spending $4,000 on everyday purchases in the first 90 days + $300 of Bilt Cash.
- Priority Pass ($469/year value). See Guide to Benefits.
- Bilt Point redemptions include airlines, hotels, future rent and mortgage payments, Lyft rides, statement credits, student loan balances, a down payment on a home, and more.