Cathay operate more flights requiring 4 pilots by virtue of their route structure. Emirates on the same route structure would also have 4 pilots on board. Although I have to admit that the ULH crewing annex is a load of trash.
However, Cathay use S/O's and one Captain, a far cheaper option than the EK equation of Two Captains and Two F/O's. The EK crewing option results in 50% Captain/FO ratio and no S/O's. If I was after a quicker command, EK should be the better option.
Before anyone gets into a pissing contest about CX FO's making more than EK Captains, don't bother unless it's a true and accurate breakdown of all costs between HKG and DXB.
Because Cathay have more long haul flights (using 4 pilots) they have more pilots. EK's training burden also creates a bubble of less productive trainers....wrt to line flying that is!!