Emirates,Dubai, Wife & Kids...
Calcify...seems that you're not getting much real info. I've been here more than 5 years now. Things have changed in all areas. Some for the good, some for the worse. EK housing is generally good. 4 bedroomed villas with all amenaties paid for. That area I am very happy with.
With the new max 14 days off we are all yet to see how that works but many may be upset with it. As an FO money may be tight as in you won't save a penny but as a Capt thigs get better very quickly.
Driving is dreadful. Dreadful. Third world mentality.
The job: new planes, varied destiations, some 9 day trips which are nasty but some nice trips too...JFK, PVG, SYD, JNB. As pilots we moan about everthing but generally this is not a bad place. My wife & children have a decent life here but she is a strong minded, independant girl who makes it happen.
Generally 3 years to command on 777 4 years on Airbrush. The FOs I fly with are pretty happy with their lot.
I like it here and have no plans to move.