I think the article is slightly wrong on this; first class on Emirates is on the second level of the A380. The cockpit and economy class are on the first level,

I think the article is slightly wrong on this; first class on Emirates is on the second level of the A380. The cockpit and economy class are on the first level, and traditionally the A380 crew rest area is then below economy — inside the cargo area. They likely sacrificed economy seating in favor of more cargo space, which then places pilots on the same level as economy.