Hello Lilflyboy,
Emirates airlines is giving preference to those who have a university degree and the necessary flight experience. In the recent past, it was easier for expatriates to get hired without a university degree. They are looking for more nationals to fly for them. When i was considering Emirates' ab initio flight training program, the vice president of flight training at Emirates aviation college advised me to get a CPL while studying for a university/college degree.
His words to me were : "learning to fly isn't much more than becoming a driver". "After we begin phasing out the 777's, it will get harder for expatriates without a degree, like it already has for Fly Dubai". "I advise you to get a university degree, and come back to us".
P.S. - I was born and brought up in Dubai