Some other issues with DXB and EK
Traffic is unbearable. More cars every year makes getting anywhere a tedious chore and highly dangerous. Take heed - your wife and kids will be more exposed to this than you.
Housing is take it or leave it - A number of pilots have been given residences close to the airport with associated noise. No option to move. Its all luck of the draw
Conditions constantly eroded. Every year little (and big perks) are quietly withdrawn. This ultimately passes on a higher living cost. Any EK pilot can name a few perks that directly affected him.
Most of the flying is "back of the clock" and the duty and rest times are illogical. E.g. time back from leave vs time back from all night double sector.
I could go on.....
The basics are:
Adjusted salaries have decreased.
Cost of living has increased (a lot)
Perks have been eroded and will continue to be - resulting in higher costs.
Allowances have decreased (compare 24Hr LHR in 94 with 04 - A decrease!!)
Hidden taxes have increased radically
Dubai is overcrowded.
While the starting salary is contractual, nothing else is and history shows a steady decline. It would seem this trend will continue.