It’s not a choice of sexuality, just as much as ones race is not a choice. While I dislike traveling through the Middle East with a passion, it’s worth noting that homosexual relations (between males anyway) is equally as illegal in Singapore. I dare say most homosexual couples (who generally are financially well off, well travelled and more so have an understanding of limitations when they’re outside their home county) would have limited problems in the UAE.
The bigger issue is probably the young, unmarried, straight couple who are heading to Europe and are forced to transit the UAE. Or a group of young, single girls They’re the ones more likely to run into trouble as they’re not accustomed to receiving discrimination.
Not trying to defend the EK tie up. I always thought it was a poor choice and it was one of many reasons I wouldn’t fly Qantas.