If you choose Emirates, be aware their direct flight (SYD-DXB) is operated by an Airbus A340-500 (at least it was in March 2007 when I flew that route). The seat pitch in cattle class is pretty unbearable, about 31 inch with more seat recline than other airlines seem to have, meaning I had to endure 14 hours of the seat in front resting on my knees. Their 777-300ERs (which operate via BKK) are much better , 34 inch or so, and the pairs of seats at the rear of the aircraft seem to have even more space.