Good questions by the OP who has obviously done a lot of research already. On the point of salary not going as far as expected in Dubai, this statement, a common one on PPRuNe, has got to be down to perceptions?
I am a FO living in London with no kids, I live comfortably but saving is almost impossible. Price comparison websites indicate the cost of living in Dubai is 15-20% less than London, with the main exception being alcohol
.
In Dubai I would have rent paid AND my net salary would be 25% more. On paper that indicates I should be able to save a lot more in Dubai than I can in London. In short I am accustomed to high prices and high rent.
If you don't originate from an expensive city then it is understandable that you might over estimate your net salary? Is that what is happening? There is after all unforeseen costs and taxes in all countries
