Emirates has recently cut award-ticket taxes significantly. For example, a JFK–MXP ticket that previously had over $300 in taxes now needs only $40 in taxes.
EK is a transfer partner of MR, UR, and TYP, so there is a very rich supply now.
Although EK is not tied to any airline co-brand partnerships, it does have a strong set of partner airlines—such as Japan Airlines, Qantas, Korean Air, Alaska Airlines, and more—and you can also book EK award tickets with partner airline miles. With this change, taxes were reduced on flights operated by EK as well.