Hi Greener Pastures,
A mate of mine works for GF based in Abu Dhabi,
1/ apparently accommodation in Abu Dhabi is very expensive, the allowance is good if you are single but not enough if you are married with children. Most of the flight deck live down in Dubai (cheaper accommodation and a better family environment, schools etc).
2/ He says the rostering department works on a buddy system.
3/ Many night flights to less then desirable places.