Ive been at Emirates a while now.
Some facts:-Its not for everyone,but IMHO its still a good job,research it well,but IF youre coming as youre current airline is in trouble,or you are "safe" with a big carrier,think twice.We need people,but ideally,you should WANT to come.
It is a deliberate policy not to provide a ticket,it tests your incentive,whilst we all bitch and moan at EK s lack of lolly paid to the pilots,they are not cheap with recruitment,its taken seriously and done professionally,they dont cut corners here.
Direct Entry Capts,a long mulled over subject,and still IMHO a likelihood,but in limited numbers.Expansion dictates this, it will be highly controversial,but with no association,nothing to stop it,potentially.
There are a number of ACCELERATED commands occuring,but I can assure you,these are are being closely monitored,and at the expense of long serving FOs who did many years at established mature airlines,these are controversial decisions too,many are angry whove done their time.Again,EK need Capts fast,and at 13-14 months to command,its almost DE anyway,most of the guys are very able,some less so,and they simply have not had time to cover the entire network.
My advice is come and have a look,spend a few days extra with your Mrs,and ask as many questions,and see as many people,
its horses for courses,its not perfect,and there are many frustrations,the vast majority come and stay.
There are plenty of golf COURSES also,and apart from the summer the weather is excellent,loads of planes coming,generally good rosters.
Rommel