The FAA approved the GCAA years ago and as we all know things have changed in the sand box. I can't explain the catergories in any detail but it was told to me that the FAA reduced Emirates from a 3 which means you can fly to/from as you please but now EK is a 2 which means they have to apply for any new destinations and the FAA is not allowing that.
I have no idea how the system works and why Emirates was downgraded but they were most definitely downgraded. ORD is on the cards but not until they reach the coveted catergory 3.
It is important to tell the FAA about how EK operates.