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Selection Process

A link is provided to apply via our on-line application. After completing your application form, you will receive an immediate acknowledgement. Applications are reviewed and candidates are selected for interview based on their background, experience and suitability.

Emirates books and pays for candidates to travel to Dubai to attend a selection programme.

Updating Your Application

Candidates are required to update their application regularly, ensuring that contact details, employer information, type ratings, aircraft type and hours are all current and correct. We suggest updating your information at least every three to six months.

The First Officer Selection Programme

Selection programmes are conducted on a regular basis to meet the recruitment needs of Emirates. Candidates are invited to Dubai to participate in a three day selection process. The programme is designed to offer prospective employees the opportunity to experience both Dubai and Emirates and to identify and overcome any issues that may be an obstacle in joining our airline. Additionally, it provides the opportunity for Emirates to get to know them. We encourage candidates to have their spouse accompany them, as it is a lifestyle decision for the entire family.

The selection programme is a two stage process and generally follows the outline below:

  • Day 1 - Stage 1

    The first day of the programme will start with a welcome brief followed by a simulator brief and assessment. The simulator session is conducted in one of our full flight simulators. You are not expected to be familiar with this aircraft; we will be assessing your basic flying skills, management and airmanship. The group might be divided into two subgroups, one of which will also do Advanced Compass Test (comprehensive skills and aptitude test) during that day. ICAO aviation English language testing will be administered at the end of the day if applicable.

  • Day 2 - Stage 1

    The second day starts with assessment centre exercises, followed by either Advanced Compass testing or psychometric testing (depending on subgroup). The day continues with an HR brief on some important information relating to the terms and conditions and the process of joining the Company. Candidates are encouraged to ask questions to clarify any issues. Candidates will then have the opportunity to visit examples of company accommodation, the Emirates Clinic and proceed on a short tour of Dubai, to learn more about the city and the benefits of living and working here. This is the end of stage 1 of the assessment.

    At the end of the day, candidates will be notified if they have been successful in the first stage of the assessment. Candidates who do not progress from Stage 1 will be able to remain in the hotel for the duration of their intended stay. It is important to remember that this is an interim assessment and, as such, does not constitute overall success within the selection programme for those who continue to the next stage.

  • Day 3 - Stage 2

    Day three starts with psychometric testing (both groups) followed by a panel interview. The interview presents another opportunity to discuss any issues regarding your application to join Emirates. After the interview, candidates receive feedback from the Company Psychologist on their psychometric profile. Candidates will also be required to undertake a medical at the end of the selection day, if time permits.

As the programme is very comprehensive, you will be required to arrive in Dubai with sufficient time to be adequately rested prior to the commencement of the programme.

We will contact you to arrange your travel details. Costs for the candidate (travel, accommodation for four nights and meals) will be borne by Emirates. Should you wish to bring your partner (which is encouraged), you will be responsible for all costs associated with this. Visas will be arranged by us for you and your spouse (if applicable).

You will be advised of the outcome of the selection programme six to eight weeks following your interview.

Things to remember for the selection programme

To maximize your opportunity for success, please keep the following points in mind:

- Please come prepared! It is important to have all the necessary documentation (including photocopies) collated and readily available.
- Be yourself. We are interested in seeing the real you, not the person you think we want to see.
- We are aware that there is much information in the marketplace about our selection procedures. Candidates should enter the process with an open mind, without preconceived ideas and overly prepared responses. The best way to maximize your opportunity for success is to listen carefully, follow the instructions and be yourself. Don’t place too much emphasis on what you’ve heard from other people. We change our programme regularly!

We look forward to seeing you in Dubai.

The Captain Selection Programme

Selection programmes for Direct Entry Captains are conducted when there is a requirement to meet Emirates' recruitment needs. Candidates are invited to Dubai to participate in a three day selection process. The programme is designed to offer prospective employees the opportunity to experience Dubai and Emirates and to identify and overcome any issues that may be an obstacle in joining Emirates.

The selection programme follows the same process as that for First Officers; however, where possible, the simulator session will be in the form of a type-specific exercise on our A330 or Boeing 777 simulator, depending on your current type.

Greater emphasis will be placed on prospective employees’ ability to demonstrate a high level of command skill and flight deck management proficiency.

Things to remember for the selection programme

To maximize your opportunity for success, please keep the following points in mind:

- Please come prepared! It is important to have all the necessary documentation (including photocopies) collated and readily available.
- Be yourself. We are interested in seeing the real you, not the person you think we want to see.
- We are aware that there is much information in the marketplace about our selection procedures. Candidates should enter the process with an open mind, without preconceived ideas and overly prepared responses. The best way to maximize your opportunity for success is to listen carefully, follow the instructions and be yourself. Don’t place too much emphasis on what you’ve heard from other people. We change our programme regularly!

We look forward to seeing you in Dubai.