Jan 06 payscale for an F/O at virgin shows a basic of 44 624. You are then contracted to fly 750 hours at an hourly rate for an F/O of 13.66 which equates to a further 10 245. Basic plus variable equals 54 869. That comes to a gross of 4573 per month.
Shanghai allowance comparison: EK 30 hr layover 82 USD. VS 48 hr layover 285 USD which is approx 2.2 times more per 24hr period.
I have enjoyed working for both airlines but have definately saved more money each month by coming to EK. Financially for me it was the right move and will do until something which pays better comes along.
Rgds.