Clunck, your broad stroke assertion is far too vague in my opinion. There might be flare ups in Egypt, Iran, Bahrain, Syria, Algeria, etc. The ME is a big place and the wealth in the UAE is substantial, nowithstanding Dubai's debt payments. Poor nations with rising food prices and no jobs is the problem, such as Egypt. I could be dead wrong, and I'll be the first to admit it, but the Arabs need somewhere to play and call a safe house, that place is Dubai and the UAE. The locals dare not risk their fancy cars, yaughts, and russian party companions. I see zero chance of a problem in Dubai unless something completely unforseen happens. Saudi Arabia is the biggest threat IMO, but they'll likely just throw money at the people as well.
Just for perspective, I left mainline AC years ago and although I certainly miss my family and it's been far from perfect, I have a much better stable career and have no regrets. I see the latest TA from AC as just the start of a slow downward decline, which was one of the reasons I left. The writing has been on the wall for the work rules and DB pension for a long time.
I'm the last one to sell you on EK or being an expat and leaving home, but I would have a look.
Just my opinion.
Last edited by Saltaire; 15th April 2011 at 15:08.