Emirates U-Dream headrest: Airline launches world-first, ergonomic padded support in economy class

Neck pillows could soon be a thing of the past.

Emirates have introduced a world-first innovation which they say will revolutionise comfort on long-haul flights.

The U-Dream headrest is a padded leather support which will act as an in-built neck pillow for passengers.

It can be adjusted in multiple ways and is designed to provide full head and neck support for all heights and body types.

The U-Dream headrest has side-wings which can be folded inwards to cradle the head, and it can move vertically and tilt.

The airline describe it as a “game-changing new seat addition” which will allow economy class passengers to “experience a whole new level of support”.

The new headrests have already been installed on three A350 aeroplanes, and the airline said the rest will be rolled out “as quickly as possible”.

All A350s will have them installed by the end of the year, and the 270 Boeing 777Xs that Emirates has ordered will have U-Dream Headrests pre-installed.

From 2027 onwards, installation of the headrests will begin on refurbished Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s.

Emirates airline president Sir Tim Clark said the new feature was designed to “significantly improve comfort” for passengers, especially those travelling long-haul.

“The U-Dream changes the game if the person wants to sleep – by supporting the neck in full,” he said.

“No more neck pillows needed.

“It’s another innovation that shows our commitment to customers and cements our economy class as the best.”

While in its early days, passengers have shared their joy at the design on social media.

“OMG! How smart are those head rests!Wow!!” wrote one.

“GOT A FLIGHT TOMORROW WOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOO cant wait for this,” added another.

Emirates said the U-Dream headrest will be wiped down after every flight.