Before accepting employment here, ask yourself, what are my expectations working for EK. So let's look at some of the expectations you may have.
Job Security: This airline is not going anywhere for the forseeable future so in that respect you will have job security. However, as an individual your job security rests with others. IOW, don't in anyway screwup during training, on the roads, or in your life in general in Dubai. Ref., the new pilot under training in MAN (find the threads on that)
Family Life: Accommodations will be provided, some better than others. But if your expectation is to have a normal family life, how will you be able to flying 90 plus hours a month, and with sometimes no more than eight days off a month? But those eight days will be spread throughout the month, so don't have expectations of being home for birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, etc.
Upgrade: If you have expectations of a fast upgrade, they won't be met. Maybe four years ago a three year upgrade was possible, think minimum of 5-6 years. Instructions say need 3000 hours in an EK aircraft and at least 4000 hours in 55 tonne aircraft.
Management: EK is running their flight operations very similar to the low cost carrier model. Never mind that most low cost are also medium to short haul, not ultra long haul. Fatigue, is a reality, not a myth here. So your expectation of a Flight Operations Department being run as a "legacy" long haul operation will not be realized. Expectations of being held in respect as a professional by flight ops will not be met. Their approach is that you are minimally qualified to fly THEIR aircraft and they treat you as such.
Dubai: Expectations of living in a cosmopolitan "modern" city will be met, if you define "modern" as wonderful new high rises and lovely flowers along the streets. But look past the facade, and look hard during one's interview. Think guilty until proven innocent if an "event" happens. You are a necessary "evil" in their country and will be treated as such.
So, if you have expectations of living what might be described as a normal life, you won't find that here as a pilot, at the present time. If you have expectations that the contract you sign will be upheld and honored, you will be disappointed in the future. If you have expectations of your family enjoying life here, compare that from where you came. If you have expectations of doing some traveling with your family to some interesting destinations, don't count on days off to enjoy, maybe during leave. If you have expectations of saving some money, you will be disappointed if you have children to educate here.
Why do pilots stay you may ask? What's the alternative for most? Maybe that's the same for you when you consider employment here. But if your family is safe where you live and you are employed, take a very hard and close look past the glitter of the big jets, big buildings and big
PR.
In closing, examine YOUR expectations of working here, take heed of what has been said on these blog boards, and good luck with your decision.