Unless anyone can enlighten me I see it as a massive win win for the company and pilots.
Yes, but who owns the company? Yes they have to pay Rent, Power, Gas and Water, but who to?
Having our wages put back into the local economy is a win for the people who ultimately call the shots. Emirates exists to help the development of Dubai, and our actual profitability is a loose change bonus compared to the airlines contribution to the wider economy.
I do think the day will come when even THAT won't make having only one base practical, but I think it will be a case of having a hub elsewhere, rather than people being allowed to be domiciled at current destinations.