skudrunner
Unless extremely lucky, you stand absolutely no chance of an upgrade with a LHS rating self-funded.
Get upgraded in less than 2 years with a Low Cost outfit for your case, IMHO, is the best bet. Move on after 3 years, or 2000hours PIC, whichever comes sooner to your dream airline that hires contract pilots.
If you don't mind fatigue and sand, EK or a middle east job may not be a bad option and you should be upgraded accordingly.(ranges from 4-7 years average, depends on which a/c type and airlines)
All the best.