EK Captain accommodation

[ExpatGuyUS]

Hi Guys,
Could you please let me know what are the best accommodation options for a EK Captain with no wife/kids (single) - have been offered Meydan villas, but preference would be to get apartment in nice downtown location - are these any nice downtown locations where EK has apartments and any of EK Captains reside. As long as I am not significantly downgrading the housing option by limited EK apartment options.

Anyone else or you know who had a similar situation. Thanks for your help -
A

[Emma Royds]

Whilst accommodation is a highly subjective topic but based on what you said, I would say that somewhere close to Sheikh Zayed Road would probably be your best bet. There are a few apartment blocks dotted around that spring to mind such as Grosvenor Commercial Tower, Tecom or Millenium (not sure if we still use it?). Whilst all the apartments will generally be pleasant enough, the standard of facilities (gym/pool) and overall maintenance and exposure to ambient noise can vary widely, based on information from colleagues.

Give careful consideration to the fact that after joining now, you are locked into company accommodation unless you wish to buy in Dubai. The accommodation apartment is shall we say, one of the less helpful departments in the company. Therefore if you don't wish to buy and don't like where you end up being placed, then it can be an uphill struggle getting moved to somewhere more to your liking.

[High Energy]

Is it still an option to opt-out and just take the money and rent yourself?

[ExpatGuyUS]

Thanks Emma and HE, from what I've been told allowance is not an option right now.

[BigGeordie]

High Energy, that option was removed several months ago. If you don't wish to buy in Dubai you are stuck with what the company gives you. As Emma said above, moving after you have been allocated a property can be "challenging".