At first glance, Emirates Airlines — perhaps best known for its first-class luxury suites with onboard shower — might not appeal to budget-minded travelers. But a fairly recent development has been positive for passengers seeking a mid-tier flight experience: Emirates premium economy.

Emirates premium economy tends to serve that sweet spot between the fancy first class suites but at a price point far closer to the standard economy fares. For folks who want a finer flying experience but don't want to shell out big bucks for lie-flat seats, the premium economy experience on Emirates will likely fit the bill.

Learn about the Emirates premium economy experience, including eligible routes, typical costs and what to expect when you fly.

Emirates premium economy seats

(Photo by Sally French)

One of the main benefits of flying Emirates premium economy is the extra space versus Emirates standard economy seats.

Emirates premium economy seats offer 40 inches of legroom pitch and a seat that's 19.5 inches wide. For comparison, economy seats provide 32 to 34 inches of legroom pitch and are 17.5 inches wide.

(Photo by Sally French)

Emirates premium economy also offers 8 inches of recline, which is especially helpful if you're trying to nap on a long-haul flight. And it's totally okay to put your feet on the seats — thanks to the cushioned leg rests, augmented by adjustable headrests.

The seats themselves are cream-colored leather and include a wood-grain table.

Food and drink

(Photo by Sally French)

The Emirates premium economy class dining experience more closely resembles what you'd expect in Emirates business class versus Emirates economy class. For starters, food is served on Royal Doulton china tableware with stainless steel cutlery wrapped in linen.

That'll sit atop a polished woodgrain dining table which folds neatly into your seat when not in use (no awkward seat back tables that move every time the passenger tosses in the seat in front of you). There's also a side table to rest your glass.

As far as the beverage menu goes, expect elevated classics like Chandon sparkling wine, extra vintages from the Emirates Business Class list, as well as chocolates and liqueurs.

For longer flights, Emirates also serves up a secondary meal, which is typically lighter (like a sandwich or pizza).

(Photo by Sally French)

A sample Emirates premium economy menu might include:

Wines. Chandon Brut Vintage (2012), Laurenz V. Charming Gruner Veltiner (2016) and Chapoutier Tournon Shays Flat Shiraz (2014).

Breakfast. A classic omelet served with sauteed mushrooms, roasted potatoes and spinach, fresh seasonal fruit and a choice of bread.

Snacks. Vegetarian pizza, fruits and snack bars.

Dinner. Thai pepper beef or grilled chicken, with an antipasti salad appetizer and coconut sago pudding for dessert.

If you have any allergies or dietary requirements, you can request a special meal up to 24 hours before your flight using the "Manage Your Booking" feature on the Emirates website.