No experience of Emirates, but Air NZ have the same measly limit, and weigh bags ex-AKL, tho' not necessarily elsewhere.
One of their reasons is weight in overhead lockers, but if doubtful I take heavy stuff out of the bag and carry it, as they allow a computer and "reading material" in addition to the bag, and also fill my coat pockets - if I'm wearing one - then either put it all back after being weighed, or just put the coat into the overhead locker anyway.
I also usually wear a Safari shirt, with massive pockets.
Stuff 'em. ( the airlines that is, not necessarily the pockets ! )