bymonek, you went down that road on another thread recently, I think. Compare the amount left over each month with our colleagues at dragon and CX. (A comparable expat job). Even after cost of living and the 15% tax, they have heaps more. That is fact. Talk to similar seniority colleagues. And that is not including the fact that they have 15% paid into their provident funds from day 1. It is only personal preference as to whether you would rather live in HKG or DXB, but remember, as an expat, you will have to leave some day. Think about how much less time you would have to spend as an expat with CX or KA, than what you will need to do here. Oh, and then there are basings with CX if you want a break from HKG.