A simple equation, which everyone should work out in their own time:
compare $ earned/saved between CX and EK (or any other Gulf carrier) based on the following factors:
1) monthly salary
2) tax (oh, there isn't any in EK)
3) housing cost (oh, there isn't any in EK)
4) cost of transportation
5) cost of schooling
6) time to Command (reference monthly salary)
7) ability to save
8) remuneration trends in each airline
Factor all those and then compare the $ amount in your piggy bank after a 20-30 year career. I think the numbers will shock you. After doing the math, take a long hard look at yourself and where you want to be in 20 years time. Make a decision accordingly.