Hmmmm, perhaps because those 'normal' Canadians (those who don't work for Air Canada or who don't have hidden agendas) deserve a better choice in carriers/destinations and QUALITY OF SERVICE!!
Think about it, not all Canadians give a toss about the survival of AC.
Also don't under estimate the level of trade between Canada and the UAE, and the fact that over 100,000 Canadians live and work here. The current flights have load factors well over 90% (even on the 500 seat A380) - figures AC could only dream about........ so how can anyone say that demand isn't sufficient for extra services?
Indeed the UAE may be acting up like a spoilt child at present, but AC and Transport Canada are acting just as poorly and are treating the fare paying public like morons........... Non-protectionist my arse! How can AC et al cry foul at Mid East governments supporting local Airlines well, when they themselves are attempting the self same thing?? Pot and Kettle?
Food for thought perhaps?