Thanks for the responses..
What exactly will the housing allowance provide in a decent area? A 2,000 sqft 3 bdrm, villia or a 1500 sqft 2 bdrm apt? I read that the provided housing is a crapshoot as to what you will get.
I did some searches online and it looked like you could get a decent villa for the monthly allotment, although I have no Idea if the areas are considered safe.
I read that Emirates holds your passport onsite, is this true?
What is a realistic amount to save 2-3k or is that still a pretty shi%&y lifestyle?