I have flown with a bunch of DECs during my time here at EK. Most were aware of their shortcomings, regarding company procedures and routes. A few were arrogant and bad pilots, to say the least.
DECs are a normal occurrence at EK since its inception; the (mis) management will always resort to them to save a few dirhams.
To clarify ... Arabs don't like the Israelis and Zionists. The problem is that most Israelis belong to the Jewish faith; thence, the misconception.