Bench mark, is your own datum
There is a lot of twoddle spouted about keeping up the salary, enforcing the contract, etc, etc.
The 7 year cycle is the norm, and the situation will change.
In the interim, the bench mark, is feed the family, pay the mortgage, and see whats left over.
Middle East contracts are famous for being written in sand.
Look at the long game....if you stave to death, you are no use to the family.
Just do your best, and feel proud that you actually have a job, even if it is in China, Russia, Dubai, or wherever.
glf