AirNoServices makes a great point. Trafic numbers are irelevant in the ME, and you cant compare ATC units based on numbers.
It is the poor RT (yes, on both sides), pilots not listening, dodgy english, poor comms, lack of procedures, constantly having to repeat simple instructions (not requests) and having to use double radar separation (in parts of the FIR) because the equipment is inadequate.
The individual workload of the controller is the factor, not just numbers.
We averaged over 700 movements arrving, departing and transiting the FIR over Nov/Dec, this is a quiet time of the year. Summer will be close to 1000 a day and growing as the ME airlines expand.
Some units also do not have the luxury of a planner position, so as well as high levels of RTF we are constantly on the phone coordinating with adjacent units, some of which we do not have direct lines to and have to be transfered through third parties.
Some controllers go to alot of effort to at least make some sort of spacing for A/C eastbound to the UAE, to give our collegues over there at least a fighting chance, others couldnt give a damn.
Teh bottom line is you cant comment on aTC units based purely on numbers, you have to take into consideration all of the management and equipment factors, go there, walk a mile and do the hard yards.
