food for thought
Just wonder does any one applying to flydubai actually ever read anything the guys who work here write ?
F/os can make around 39000 AED's per month (was in yesterdays Arabian Business press )
It sounds great converted into your own currency, however, unless you are a single guy living in a small apartment here you will struggle to save anything.
Married & 2 children ? A different story....
1 The housing allowance no longer covers a decent family house in a decent area. ( by decent I mean not a construction site )
2 The education allowance does not fully cover education. finding places in schools is a challenge, Flydubai have priority at GEMS group schools, however the fees start about 15- 20k (per child) MORE than the allowance provided.
3 Petrol and cars are relatively cheap, however with children you will need two cars
4 Food 10 - 30 % more expensive depending on where you come from.
Lots of hidden costs setting up here. A new arrival pays for UAE ID cards ( you and dependants) , Deposits for Phone, Water, Electricity, Cars, Driving licences, Housing deposits. I arrived here with just over 16,000 euros to help cover set up costs.
With the rising cost of living here (rents up over 25% during last 12 months) you really have to think how you want to live here and for how long.
Bear in mind also there is no pension system in UAE, you will have to make your provisions elsewhere, with no contributions from the company.
If you are thinking of coming to UAE longer term consider EK or EY the packages are more realistic and aimed at retaining pilots longer term. EK FO 44 k per month. EK 35k but Housing and bills covered by EK.
Flydubai has become a stepping stone for many, but beware if you come here moving to EK/EY will not be possible for minimum of 3 years. ( local agreement)
Life can be good in Dubai, but there are many things to be aware of before making such a commitment. Good luck.
Last edited by Guided accordingly; 21st Mar 2013 at 05:01.