I don't think you can compare the lifestyle in Dubai and Istanbul, because there is nothing cost free and enjoyable at the same time in Dubai. You can always take a walk in several places in Istanbul(cost free). Well for the rosters, it can get worse and worse but it won't be even half bad as in EK. My friend does 4 flights in the high season and 2 days sim. Those 4 flights consist of 3 USA destinations and the other one to Ankara which is 1 hour leg. So when you come back with a ground time of 1 hour you still have the rest of the day. In the fors case scenario you have lots of off days. 2x4 days off in a row + 1x5 days off in a row and 1x3 days off in a row. That is "the thoughest roster ever" he ever came across with(type 777) and if you ever get such a roster in EK, please stick with EK.
People are not coming to THY for the pay but for the relaxed roster.
For a normal month you can conclude one of those flights and the sim.