BigGeordie- Thanks for the info, I have read lots of info about EK on here but not many people seem to opt out of the provided accommodation. For me I can see the hastle/risk of moving away from provided accommodation i.e housing fees, utility bills, rent rises e.t.c but I am just trying to find out if it is a feasible option for a new joiner!
For us a villa would be preferable hence the reason to opt out. Do many people live in provided accommodation for a few years then either purchase or opt out & rent once they are used to life in Dubai?