Now that IS a wind up if ever I heard one. I think that cadet was pulling your chain. Having said that, I do know that their attendance record is poorer than average. Whether they get called in for a discussion is another matter.
If the Company were to employ them on 65 hours and offer overtime above that, it would be a very clear case of racial discrimination. The extra 'salary' they get is from the government. Flying hours is from the Company so would expose itself to possible court action. Maybe not here in Dubai but elsewhere if you chose to create a scene. It would not make for a good read in the Mail On Sunday centre spread and EK know that.
I flew with a local just recently and having seen his roster, can assure you that he's rostered just the same busy month as the rest of us mere mortals. I know it's Thursday evening but easy on the vino fellas!
Harry