Guys left the regionals in the US to come to EK because it was an increase in pay and a better lifestyle at the time or they were furloughed. Most pilots in civilian progression in the US did come through the regionals at one point or another. Unfortunately, when hiring stagnated over the last 10-20 years in the US some got stuck flying RJs for an extended period of time. They were then accused of "lowering the bar".....some chose to vote with their feet came to EK for the promise of better pay and lifestyle. It really has nothing to do with DUI's, records, or child support for nearly all who came from the regionals. Some of us even left the states from dirt bag cargo or 737 operators because of the stagnant hiring arena.
Fast forward to arriving at EK:
As an RJ pilot and even an American pilot at EK you are treated like a second class citizen as if you have no knowledge of aviation or flying. You are looked down on because EK considers you slack and your RT to be horrible and if you were on the RJ, your hours/experience are discriminated against by both fleet management and training just over a few ton difference from flying a 737. They don't tell you that in the road shows....just come with thick skin.
My advice: RUN FROM EK....and don't look back. If you have even a regional job in the US right now, stay and wait it out. EK management is crap, training is crap, and T&C are going to crap. It is not worth coming here anymore.