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Fly one of the world’s most modern fleet of 255+ wide-bodied aircraft to more than 150 destinations around the globe
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Accelerated command
For motivated Captains who would like the opportunity to fly a modern wide body aircraft worldwide
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This is a unique opportunity for you to join as an A380 First Officer on an enhanced salary package with an accelerated command upgrade scenario.
Requirements
To qualify for this opportunity, you will need to have a minimum of 7000 hours on multi-crew, multi-engine aircraft.
On top of this you will need to have:
recruitment process
Know what to expect in your recruitment journey as you progress through the selection stages.
Our Dubai based selection process is held over three days.
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Online Personality Questionnaire
Online
Upon confirmation to attend the Selection Programme in Dubai, you will receive an email with a link to complete an online personality questionnaire. This will tell us more about you and how you work with others in different situations.
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Group Assessment & SIM Assessment
Dubai
Following a group exercise to assess your team interaction, you will progress to a Simulator Brief and assessment. This will evaluate your basic flying skills, flight deck management and airmanship.
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Advanced Compass Test
Dubai
Computerized Pilot Aptitude Screening System (COMPASS) consists of 6 tests which have been developed to assess some of the key aptitude area for pilots
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Cognitive Ability test, Interview & Emirates medical examinations
Dubai
- The cognitive ability test is designed to assess your logic and reasoning skills.
- During a panel interview you will be assessed on key pilot competencies.
- You’ll have a medical health check at our Emirates clinic.
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Accommodation & school tour, Psychometrics & GCAA medical
Dubai
- The Accommodation & School Tour starts with a HR Brief and a detailed overview of the pilot benefits and the joining process.
- The psychometric test will tell us a bit more about how you respond in various situations.
- GCAA Medical includes an eye test and x-ray which is required by the Dubai Health authority for all expat residents.
Training
After an induction week, you’ll begin your Type Rating course. It will cover areas like Aircraft Systems, TCAS, ETOPS, ILS/PRM, RNAV and RVSM.
Then, the Fixed base IPT and full-flight simulator will lead up to your license and skills test. Final simulator sessions will qualify you for Low Visibility Ops and Zero Flight Time.
Line training begins after that - starting with an observation flight, and then between 12 - 30 training sectors (depending on your previous experience), mostly to places you haven’t flown to before.
The last step is a final line check, and you’ll be a fully-qualified commercial pilot with Emirates.
Some facts about us
Your Questions
Search Frequently asked questions
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What makes Emirates one of the world’s fastest-growing airline?
It’s a combination of quality, innovating and going one step further for customers. We’re also confident in the future of the travel industry – we’ve been adding around four new destinations every year. And now we’re adding one new aircraft every month. That’s what happens when you’re determined to be the best. -
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What are the opportunities for cabin crew?
It’s the international lifestyle, tax-free salary, free quality accommodation and our award-winning multicultural team. The travel benefits and training are amazing too. -
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What makes the career path rewarding?
Many of our middle and senior managers started out as cabin crew, so it’s a great beginning if you’re determined to achieve something. In the meantime, you’ll be working with people from 140 nationalities, building your skills and advancing your career – even becoming flight purser within five years or training others. -
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How long are the contract and probation?
In accordance with current Dubai Government regulations, the contract is a three-year non-binding one, renewable with agreement by Emirates management and the crew member. The probationary period is six months. -
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What’s the annual leave like?
The number of annual leave hours relates to your job grade. It’ll be in your contract of employment. -
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What makes Emirates the fastest-growing airline in the world?
From the outset, Emirates has been committed to quality and innovation and to exceed customer expectation. More than 400 international awards bear witness to our dedication to these core values.
We are confident of the travel industry’s long-term growth potential and have a steady management focused on long-term goals. Emirates has an aggressive business development plan which has seen us adding an average of four new destinations every year for the past 23 years and regularly increasing flight frequencies. Currently, we are expanding our fleet with, on average, one new aircraft delivery every month. We have a good product complemented with excellent service and the drive to be the best in whatever we do. -
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What are the opportunities for Cabin Crew in Emirates?
Being based in Dubai, Emirates offers its Cabin Crew an international lifestyle, an attractive tax-free salary, free quality accommodation and the opportunity to work with an award-winning multicultural team. Salaries for Cabin Crew are competitive and packages of attractive travel benefits and excellent professional development opportunities are available. -
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Is this a rewarding career path and why?
Working with Emirates will give you endless opportunities: to meet and work with people from over 120 nationalities; to increase your skills and rapidly advance your career. Currently, high performing Cabin Crew have been able to attain the position of Flight Purser within five years and many have also become trainers in cabin service. Many people in middle and upper management joined the airline as Cabin Crew and now work in other departments. Opportunities abound: waiting for you to pursue them, based on performance of course! -
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How long is the contract and is it binding?
In accordance with current Dubai Government regulations, the contract is a three-year non-binding one, renewable with agreement by Emirates management and crew member. There is a probationary period of six months commencing from the date of joining. -
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What is the probationary period for company employment?
For all positions, the probationary period is six months from the date of joining the company. -
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What is the annual leave policy of the company?
All full-time employees are entitled to paid annual leave. The number of working hours of annual leave provided per calendar year is related to your job grade and is specified in your contract of employment. -
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What is the recruitment process like?
Candidates are short-listed and undergo an initial screening. Many will then be asked to participate in assessment exercises. Finally, those identified as having potential will be called for an interview. Candidates who fail to make it through the initial screening process and those who are not successful after the interview may reapply after 6 months. -
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What does Emirates look for in Cabin Crew?
Irrespective of nationality, we look for a positive attitude, confidence, flexibility, maturity, a friendly disposition, and importantly a genuine passion to help others and to provide quality service. As the job can be physically demanding, we also look for those with resilience and a determination to continually perform well. -
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Do you need previous experience as Cabin Crew?
Previous experience in a customer service role would be of benefit but previous cabin crew experience is not required. -
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Can I attend a Cabin Crew interview in any country where Emirates recruitment campaigns are being held?
Yes. If Emirates is not conducting interviews in your home country, you may be invited to attend the selection process in a nearby country or you may choose to attend the Open Information Days as advertised. Should you choose to attend, expenses incurred will not be reimbursed. -
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How many job applications does Emirates receive? How many Cabin Crew are working with Emirates at present?
Emirates receives an average of 15,000 applications for Cabin Crew per month. Over 20,000 Cabin Crew are currently working for the airline. -
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If selected to join Emirates as Cabin Crew what medical tests are required?
Prior to joining, you will be required to complete a self-declaration medical form. If additional information is required, you may have to visit your Doctor. A visit to the Dentist is also required to complete the dental form. Any costs incurred as part of your medical requirements will be borne by you. Once you join us, additional medicals will be conducted by The Emirates Group. These are required for residence visa and also to comply with GCAA requirements. -
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Do you get paid/compensated and are you provided with company accommodation while training?
Your basic salary is calculated from the first day of joining. Company accommodation is also provided upon your arrival in Dubai. -
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What is involved in the training? Where does it take place?
All Cabin Crew recruits go through an initial eight-week training course in Dubai, conducted in English at a purpose-built crew training centre that is part of the Emirates Aviation College. Training includes the practical and theoretical aspects of safety, first aid and inflight service on the various aircraft operated by Emirates. The trainees on each course are normally a rich cultural mix. There are regular assessments with stringent pass marks for each module. Hence a high standard of performance and dedication is required. -
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Are you allocated flights as soon as you join training?
You are given a roster on the day of your graduation at the end of your training. Initially, you will fly as supernumerary so that your performance can be observed and feedback obtained in order to identify any further training needs prior to your first operational flight. -
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When do you get a roster? How many days off do you get in a month?
Cabin Crew have a monthly roster and have approximately eight days off per month in Dubai. -
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What are promotions based on?
Cabin Crew promotions are based on assessment of performance. -
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What are the career development opportunities within Emirates?
Staff have first opportunity to apply for a vacant position as most of these are advertised internally before being advertised to outside applicants. Candidates interested in applying for any internal vacancy should meet the following requirements:- Completion of one year in your current role (position/department).
- The minimum qualifications and experience required for the advertised position.
- The support of your line manager.
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Is health care provided?
Emirates provides all Cabin Crew with a comprehensive package for medical and dental services at the designated Emirates Clinics. -
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Does Emirates provide any insurance cover?
All Cabin Crew are insured on a 24-hour worldwide basis under life insurance and personal accident insurance policies. The company’s policy on insurance is detailed in The Emirates Group Employee Handbook, which is issued to every employee upon joining the company. -
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Does Emirates offer a pension scheme?
Emirates provides a non-contributory end of service benefit (EOSB) (a lump sum of money assessed according to salary scale) on completion of the term of your contract. -
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What is the pay structure/allowance?
Your pay is made up of three components: a fixed basic salary, an hourly pay for operated flights and an overseas allowance.
Pay Scale for Grade II (entry level): Basic monthly salary, tax free in the UAE - AED4,260 (1 US$=approx AED 3.673).
Flying pay on an hourly basis - AED61.25 paid between chocks off and chocks on. Flying pay is paid in the month following accrual.
Meal allowances are paid in the currency of the country in which a night stop is made. The company provides free transport to and from the airport and hotel accommodation. -
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When may I apply for concessional travel?
You are eligible to apply for ID50 firm tickets for yourself and your family from your date of joining. ID90 ticket eligibility starts 3 months post joining. Special tickets for friends and extended family are available 6 months post joining. Nominations for special tickets are completed on an annual basis. Additions or amendments to this list of cannot be made outside of that time frame. You are able to add up to 25 names/nominees on your Special Ticket list. -
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How much leave will I be entitled to?
Cabin Crew are entitled to 30 calendar days’ leave per year based on availability of leave slots. One firm annual leave ticket is provided free of charge to your country of origin. After three years of service this may be taken to any destination on the Emirates network. -
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How often & how soon can I go home?
All employees are on probation for the first six months of their service. They are, therefore, eligible for leave after the probation period. We fly to over 120 destinations and you could be rostered to your home country, based on operational requirements. -
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What is the Exchange Rate Protection scheme?
UAE-based expatriate employees, irrespective of nationality, grade or position, are covered by the Exchange Rate Protection (ERP) scheme, unless they are from the USA or any country where the currency is fixed against the US dollar.
The ERP scheme is intended to provide reasonable protection if you are adversely affected by exchange rate fluctuations in the currency of your home country or the place of your permanent residence. Your ERP currency will be given as per the country of your Annual Leave Destination, and once your ERP is determined it can never be changed. Under the ERP Scheme, 50 per cent of the net basic salary received each month is protected up to a maximum of 15 per cent. -
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What is profit share?
If the company achieves its profit target, employees receive a profit share payment. The company’s financial year runs from 1st April to 31st March the following year. The company announces its results – and any profit share to be made - in April for the financial year just ended. The profit share is paid in May. The amount varies from year to year and has ranged from two to 14 weeks of basic salary.
To qualify for the full profit share, you must have been employed for the complete period, 1st April to 31st March. If you joined after the 31st March but before 30th September, you would be entitled to a pro rata amount. If you joined after 30th September, you will have to wait until the next profit share. -
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What is accommodation like and is it expensive?
Emirates provides shared furnished air conditioned accommodation free of charge. There are more than 50 buildings in various locations throughout Dubai that you could be placed in. Each apartment block has leisure facilities. Two/three colleagues (same gender) share a two/three bedroom apartment and each have their own bedroom but share the kitchen and the living area. Two people may have to share a second bathroom in some three-bedroom apartments. -
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Can my family come to visit and stay with me in company accommodation?
Family members can stay in your apartment in accordance with the Emirates accommodation regulations. -
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Can different genders share accommodation?
Dubai is an Islamic country. Men and women cannot share accommodation unless they are married. -
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What is Dubai like as a lifestyle destination?
From a country that relied on pearl diving, Dubai has now developed into an international tourism and regional business hub. It is a modern cosmopolitan city where people of many cultures and religious backgrounds live and work in harmony. Dubai offers many advantages and prides itself on being one of the most exciting cities in the world. Dubai is a city of contrast, a land where the old and the new, traditional and modern, east and west blend seamlessly to produce a fascinating, mysterious, exciting place with a distinct personality all of its own. There is an endless variety of superb restaurants and sports and leisure facilities catering for all tastes. -
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Do I pay tax on my salary?
The salary you receive from Emirates is tax free. -
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Do I need to open a UAE bank account?
Yes, because your salary is paid monthly in UAE dirhams. -
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What is the procedure for obtaining a UAE driving licence?
Obtaining a UAE driving licence and the costs involved are your responsibility. There many countries which have an agreement with the UAE whereby you can convert your existing driving licence to a UAE driving licence. If you are unable to convert your existing driving licence into a UAE driving licence, then you will have to undergo driving tests conducted by Dubai Police. There are many private driving schools in Dubai and you can register with one of them for driving lessons. -
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Do you need another language? What is the predominantly spoken language?
In Dubai, Arabic and English are widely spoken. Candidates need fluency in spoken and written English. Fluency in another language is an advantage. There are a number of language institutions in Dubai if you wish to learn another language. -
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What are the criteria for applying for a job?
- Must hold a valid UAE passport
- Must have good command of both written and verbal English
- Must hold Khalasat Al Qaid or Marsoom
- Must hold UAE National Identity Card
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What is OJT?
On the Job Training. This applies to roles where the candidate is given a training period (x-1). The salary will be lower than the proposed job grade until the trainee completes his or her OJT. -
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What does a “Trainee Role” involve?
- Firstly, a trainee is chosen for an appropriate job (through the Recruitment Team)
- The trainee then joins the company
- The trainees attends a National Induction Programme
- A Development Plan is set
- A tripartite meeting is held with the trainee and their line manager
- Course Nominations
- Follow-up tripartite meeting
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What does the Career Development Unit do?
- After you complete the training period, you will meet the a member of the unit to discuss your interests and career aspirations.
- The unit member meets your line manager for feedback.
- Agreement is made on your development needs
- A development plan is set.
- The unit member follows up on your progress to ensure that everything is working out as planned
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What is the procedure for license conversion as per GCAA in Dubai?
All information pertaining to license conversion, eligibility and the documentation required can be found on the following website: www.gcaa.ae -
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What are the accommodation options available for Licensed Aircraft Engineers in Dubai?
• Option 1
– Company accommodation and furnishings (up to Dhs30,000, depending on size of accommodation and items provided by the landlord)
– starter pack
– Dhs 3,300 on joining to purchase supplementary items
• Option 2
– Company accommodation
– Dhs 30,000 furnishing allowance
– No additional allowances
– No temporary accommodation
– Unfurnished accommodation
• Option 3
–Dhs 119,460 utilities allowance
–Dhs 30,000 furnishing allowance
– No additional allowances
– Up to 3 months' temporary accommodation
– Temporary accommodation does not have starter pack items (e.g. bedding, towels, cutlery etc).
– New joiners may order a starter pack.
All Licensed Aircraft Engineers will be asked to choose from the above options at the time of joining. -
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How much can I carry as my excess baggage at the time of joining?
On joining, the company will reimburse the cost of unaccompanied shipping of personal effects up to 50-100 kg for the spouse, depending on your grade, plus 25kg per child up to a maximum of three children under 19. The costs will be reimbursed on presentation of receipted invoices. -
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What class of travel am I eligible for?
If you are a Licensed Aircraft Engineer, you will be eligible to travel on economy/upgradeable to business class on your Annual Leave ticket. However, children under the age of 16 years are not eligible for an upgrade. -
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Will Emirates assist me in obtaining Family Visa?
Emirates acts as a sponsor for the employee and provides a three-year residence visa/work permit, which is renewable. Once the employment visa is stamped in your passport, you can act as a sponsor for family (spouse and children). We provide assistance in processing family visas. -
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What is the process for applying for family visas?
You must provide attested marriage certificate, passport copies and photographs of the dependents. It takes around three-to-four weeks generally to process the family visa and once the visa is processed, your family can travel to Dubai on joining ticket. -
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What is the annual leave policy of the company?
All full-time employees are entitled to generous paid annual leave in comparison to most other companies. The number of working hours of annual leave provided per calendar year is related to your job grade and is specified in your contract of employment. -
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What are the career development opportunities within Emirates?
Staff have first opportunity to apply for a vacant position as most of these are advertised internally before being advertised to outside applicants. Candidates interested in applying for any internal vacancy should meet the following requirements:- Completion of one year in your current role (position/department);
- The minimum qualifications and experience required for the advertised position;
- The support of your line manager.
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What is the probationary period for company employment?
For all positions, the probationary period is six months from the date of joining the company. -
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What is “Exchange rate protection” scheme?
UAE-based expatriate employees, irrespective of nationality, grade or position, are covered by the Exchange Rate Protection (ERP) scheme, unless they are from the USA or any country where the currency is fixed against the US dollar.
The ERP scheme is intended to provide reasonable protection if you are adversely affected by exchange rate fluctuations in the currency of your home country or the place of your permanent residence. Your ERP currency will be given as per the country of your Annual Leave Destination, and once your ERP is determined it can never be changed. Under the ERP Scheme, 50 per cent of the net basic salary received each month is protected up to a maximum of 15 per cent. -
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What is Profit share?
If the company achieves its profit target, employees receive a profit share payment. The company’s financial year runs from 1st April to 31st March the following year. The company announces its results – and any profit share to be given - in April for the financial year just ended. The profit share is paid in May. The amount varies from year to year; in the past, it has ranged from two to 14 weeks of basic salary.
To qualify for the full profit share, you must have been employed for the complete period, 1st April to 31st March. If you joined after the 31st March but before 30th September, you would be entitled to a pro rata amount. If you joined after 30th September, you will have to wait until the next profit share. -
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Do I pay tax on our salary?
The salary you receive from Emirates is tax-free. -
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Do I need to open a UAE bank account?
Yes - this is advised and will be explaine dduring your Onboarding experience and they will also provide details of recommended Banks. -
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What is the procedure for obtaining a UAE Driving License?
Obtaining a UAE driving licence and the costs involved are your responsibility. Many countries have an agreement with the UAE under which you can convert your existing driving licence to a UAE driving licence. If you are unable to convert your existing driving licence into a UAE driving licence, then you will have to take driving tests conducted by Dubai Police. There are many private driving schools in Dubai and you can register with one of them for driving lessons. -
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What is the Education Allowance Policy for children?
Education Support Allowance (ESA) is a contribution made by Emirates towards the school fees of employees’ children (up to a maximum of three children below the age of 19 years).
ESA for tuition fees will apply on an annual basis using the academic year from 1st September to 31st August as applied in Dubai. ESA will be calculated on a pro-rata basis from the month of joining, provided other policy criteria are fulfilled.
The ESA will operate on the following basis:- Primary Schools
- If the invoiced school tuition fees are below Dhs 16,000 per annum, the company will reimburse 100 per cent of all actual invoiced compulsory core tuition fees.
- If the invoiced school tuition fees are above Dhs 16,000 per annum, the company will reimburse 100 per cent of the first Dhs 16,000 and 90 per cent of the remainder of all actual invoiced compulsory core tuition fees, subject to a maximum overall reimbursement of Dhs 32,000 per annum.
- Secondary Schools
- If the invoiced school tuition fees are below Dhs 25,000 per annum, the company will reimburse 100 per cent of all actual invoiced compulsory core tuition fees.
- If the invoiced school tuition fees are above Dhs 25,000 per annum, the company will reimburse 100 per cent of the first Dhs 25,000 and 90 per cent of the remainder of all actual invoiced compulsory core tuition fees, subject to a maximum overall reimbursement of Dhs 50,000 per annum.
- Primary Schools
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Will the education support allowance include registration and admission fees as well?
A registration fee up to a maximum of Dhs 500 will be reimbursed as a one-off payment. If a child is registered in more than one school, additional registration fees will not be reimbursed. A registration fee is paid once only per child in each level of education (primary and secondary).
An admission fee (where applied as a separate invoiced amount) up to a maximum of Dhs 2,000 will be reimbursed as a one-off payment. If an admission fee is part of an advance payment of term fee, it is regarded as being part of tuition fees and is included in the overall Education Support Allowance for tuition fees. An admission fee is paid once only per child in each level of education (primary and secondary). -
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Are my family members eligible for medical cover if they do not reside in Dubai?
If you are a Category A staff member, your eligible dependents not residing in the UAE are covered for in-patient treatment worldwide. They are covered for outpatient treatment only in the UAE. They are covered for emergency outpatient treatment only in countries other than their country of domicile. All non-emergency treatment needs prior approval from the Medical Costs Manager. -
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Where does Emirates hold the interviews and how long does the assessment process take?
The selection process is held over three days in Dubai. You would also need to allow for a day’s travel either side.
From time to time we hold simulator assessments at different locations around the world. If this happens, we’ll advertise it in the Upcoming Events section of our career’s page. -
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Do I have to pay to travel to Dubai for my interview?
We provide you and your spouse with a return Economy Class ticket (upgradable to Business Class) to Dubai from your nearest destination in the Emirates network. -
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Do I have to provide certified logbooks for assessment?
Yes, you must provide complete certified logbook records when you’re invited for the assessment. This can either be a stamp in your logbook from your fleet manager or chief pilot verifying your hours flown, or a stamped original letter from the fleet department of your airline or authority. -
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If my application is shortlisted, is it possible to defer my assessment?
You can email Pilot Recruitment at pilotrecdxb@emirates.com if you want your application to be considered at a later date. However, if you’ve accepted your scheduled assessment and you’ve declined with less than a week’s notice, your application may be closed subject to the specific circumstances. -
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If I am not successful in the assessment, can I reapply?
We’ll email you the details of when you can reapply. That could be anything from six to 24 months’ time following your assessment. -
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Does Emirates recruit direct entry captains?
Yes, based on operational requirements we recruit direct entry captains (DECs) on both the A380 and Boeing 777 fleet. -
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What is accelerated command?
Accelerated command is an opportunity to fast track to command with Emirates. You will need to operate the right-hand seat for a minimum of 700 stick hours and complete two Pilot Proficiency Checks (PPC’s). Assuming you meet the standards and display the required level of performance, you will then be eligible for accelerated command via an assessment process and an upgrade course. -
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When can I expect to be upgraded to captain?
Our company criteria is:
- Minimum 6,000 hours total time
- Minimum 2,500 hours actual time in an operating seat (stick time) must have been completed on the Emirates aircraft type you plan to upgrade
- Minimum four years in Emirates
- Possession of a valid UAE ATPL
- Minimum of 6 PPCs successfully completed on any Emirates fleet
- The minimum age to commence the command course is 30
- Freighter only: At least six months’ relevant operation (cargo) including one PPC immediately prior to your command course
- Note: Total Time is defined as flying as P1 and/or P2, excluding single and multi-engine piston.
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If I am selected and have a bond with my current airline, will Emirates pay the remainder of the bond?
No, you will need to pay. -
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What is the duration of the contract of employment?
Unless stated otherwise, the contract of employment is permanent and open (no fixed duration). -
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What is the probation period?
The probation period is six months from your date of joining. -
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How does the Emirates training bond apply?
The bond for first officers and captains is USD 42,000. Flight crew on the passenger fleet will be bonded for a period of five years. -
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If I am selected, how is my fleet type decided?
While we take into account your past experience and preference, this won’t always determine the fleet type. Allocation is based solely on our operational requirements. -
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Can I change fleets?
Yes, you can ask or volunteer for transfer, but only when our operational requirements deem it necessary. The transfer will be based on seniority. -
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How does the rostering system work?
The rostering system is a rotating cycle, so each group becomes the top priority for bidding every five months.
Within the groups there is a seniority list. However, you have a stronger chance of getting the duties you ask for when you are in the top most group. Bid preferences include: destination, regions, days off, pairing length and check-in time among others.
A reserve month (where no duties are scheduled) is usually rostered for each group approximately every 10 months for a duration of 35 days, which will be allocated to the bottom bid groups. -
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How long are the flight duties and sectors in Emirates?
The sectors range from 50 minutes to 17 hours. -
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How long is a layover duty?
Layover trips generally range from 24 hours to 72 hours. The maximum time away from base is nine days. -
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How are stopover allowances paid?
Stopover allowances apply at all layover locations and are normally paid in cash in the local currency. -
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How many days off will I get in a month?
All crew members have a minimum of seven days off in any consecutive 28 days, and at least eight days off in each consecutive 30 day period, averaged over three such periods. These figures will be allotted in relation to periods of leave. -
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Is it possible to leave Dubai when I have days off?
Yes, you can leave Dubai when you have days off. Fill in the Away From Base form on the crew portal so we know your location, and give a contact number and address. -
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How much leave will I be entitled to and how do I apply for it?
You will be entitled to 42 days leave a year. During the course of the calendar year under UAE law you must be granted a minimum of 30 days annual leave. Leave is allocated by a bidding system through the Flight Crew Portal. The allocation depends on when you last took leave and on your fleet seniority. -
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Am I entitled to take any leave during the probation period (first six months)?
No, only after your first six months. However, special cases will be considered. -
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If my family remains in my home country, is it possible for me to commute?
No, we don’t provide this option for flight crew. All our pilots are based in Dubai. -
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Do I pay tax on my salary?
Your salary is tax free in Dubai. Please check the income taxation laws in your home country in case you’re eligible to pay tax. -
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When do we get pay rises? Are annual increments guaranteed?
The company reviews salaries every year and may award pilots an incremental rise in salary or a percentage increase, subject to satisfactory performance. However this payment is not contractual. -
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What is the Provident Scheme and the End of Service Benefit (EOSB)
Provident Scheme
The company has established a Provident Scheme set up under a Trust and governed by Isle of Man law. It is administered by the Trustees in accordance with the rules of the scheme. The company will automatically enrol you after six months.
The fund is managed by a provident scheme officer. If you want to change the investments (based on fluctuations in the stock market) you can make changes up to six times a year free of charge. You get two free consultations a year and you can monitor your accounts online.
As a condition of your employment, you will be required to take part in the Provident Scheme, subject to the scheme rules and qualifying period. The vesting periods (the amount of time you must have worked at Emirates before you fully own the shares) are set out in the scheme rules: 75% of the A account (company contribution) after five years of scheme membership, 100% of the A account at seven years of scheme membership.
Monthly contributions are 5% from you, 12% of your basic salary for the first 10 years of service and 15% thereafter.
End-of-Service Benefit
You will be guaranteed a minimum End-of-Service payment of 21 days’ basic salary a year for the first five years of service, then 30 days’ basic salary a year for each year of service thereafter.
You will receive either your Provident Scheme A account or the End of Service Benefit (EOSB), whichever has the higher value, but not both.
All GCC nationals will be enrolled in their respective pension schemes.
Upon termination of employment you will be entitled to the following benefits:
Less than five years’ service: You receive the Provident Scheme benefit accumulated on your contributions as an employee only, plus your End of Service Benefit calculated at 21 days’ basic salary for every year of service.
Over five years’ service and less than seven years’ service: You receive the Provident Scheme benefit accumulated on your contributions as an employee, plus:
75% of the A account value (the company’s contribution) at five years of scheme membership or your End of Service Benefit (whichever is higher). This is calculated at 21 days’ basic salary a year for the first five years of service, then 30 days’ basic salary a year for each year of service thereafter.
More than seven years’ service: You receive the Provident Scheme benefit accumulated on your contribution as an employee, plus:
100% of the A account value (the company’s contribution) at seven years of scheme membership or your End of Service Benefit, calculated at 21 days’ basic salary a year for the first five years of service, then 30 days’ basic salary a year for each year of service thereafter.
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How does the profit share work?
If the company reaches its profit target, employees receive a profit share payment in May. The amount varies from year to year and has ranged from two to 14 weeks of basic salary.
You must be employed for the complete period from 1 April – 31 March to be eligible for the full profit share payment. If you join after the 31 March and before 30 September you are entitled to a pro rata amount.
If you join after 30 September you will have to wait until the end of the next financial year to be eligible for the profit share. -
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What is the Exchange Rate Protection scheme?
Expatriate pilots, irrespective of nationality, grade or position, are covered by the Exchange Rate Protection (ERP) scheme (except for the USA as the dirham is tied to the dollar).
The ERP scheme provides reasonable protection if you are adversely affected by exchange rate fluctuations to the currency of your home country. Under the ERP Scheme, 50% of the net basic salary you receive each month is protected. -
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Do I need to open a UAE bank account?
Yes, as your salary is paid monthly in local currency. -
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Do I get transportation allowance?
No, the company provides free pick up and drop off to and from duty from your home in Dubai to the airport. -
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Do Emirates provide medical and dental benefits to the employee and their dependant family?
We cover you and your dependant family members in the UAE and worldwide as a benefit of your employment.
You are covered free of charge, and you pay a nominal monthly amount to cover your spouse and children. -
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Is there a pre-joining medical check for families?
Your dependants will need to attend an initial dental check upon joining to assess any pre-existing conditions. But otherwise, your dependants (husband or wife, and children below the age of 19) will be automatically registered in the scheme. You need to submit a declaration of health for each dependant, plus the birth certificates of your children and your marriage certificate. -
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How can I find out whether a pre-existing condition is covered by the medical scheme?
The final decision is taken by our chief medical officer and we’ll let you know before you join. As with all insurance companies, there is an exclusion list and a pre-existing condition is normally excluded for the first six months of employment. You can discuss any concerns during the assessment process. -
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If I fail my pre-employment medical at the assessment stage, will I be told the reason?
This is at the discretion of the company. -
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Why are the HIV, hepatitis B and TB tests required?
This is a mandatory government formality to secure a residence visa. -
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What if I am sick for more than 15 days?
If you are absent due to sickness, accident or industrial injury, your absence must be supported by a medical certificate issued by a company doctor. Full basic salary will be paid for up to 52 weeks (this applies after you complete your initial six months’ of employment). -
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Am I covered by Emirates for loss of licence?
Yes, full details can be found in the Employee Handbook on joining the company. The company insures all flight crew according to your age against permanent loss of licence arising from an accident or sickness
All ages up to 61 years: three basic annual salaries
Age 62: two basic annual salaries
Age 63: one basic annual salary
Ages 64 and above: no coverBasic annual salary is a sum of your monthly basic salaries, excluding all allowances. If the loss of licence is due to a pre-existing condition, it is not covered by this insurance. There are various private schemes available that you can arrange, or you may want to continue with existing insurance cover you have in your own country.
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Can you explain the staff travel benefits?
You’re eligible to apply for ID50 firm tickets for you and your family from your date of joining. ID90 ticket eligibility starts three months after you join.
Your spouse and children up to age 21 (or 23 if they’re in full time education) are entitled to unlimited concessional tickets.
You also have 10 Special Tickets a year for your extended family and friends, which become available six months after you join.
Contractually you and your immediate family are entitled to one confirmed return annual leave ticket free of charge.
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Where will I live in Dubai?
Your accommodation in Dubai depends on the availability when you join. You can highlight a preference prior to joining. -
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What are my accommodation entitlements as a first officer?
As a single or married first officer without children, you are entitled to either a furnished or unfurnished two or three bedroom company apartment. If you’re married with dependent children who live in Dubai, you will be entitled to either a furnished or unfurnished company villa. -
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What are my accommodation entitlements as a captain?
As a captain you are entitled to either a furnished or unfurnished three or four bedroom company villa, regardless of your marital status or whether you have children. -
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What should I expect to find in my company accommodation when I arrive?
If you choose furnished accommodation, we provide living, dining and bedroom furniture, as well as curtains and lamps. You will also get a starter pack of linen, kitchen items and crockery. In your first week you’ll receive AED 3,300 to buy other items.
The cost of the furniture and the starter pack (which is valued at AED 45,000) is written off over a period of five years in standard monthly amounts. If you decide to leave the company within five years, you will be liable to pay the remaining amount (you can’t return the furniture to pay the rest off).
If you choose unfurnished accommodation or you take the allowance for private accommodation, you won’t get the starter pack or supplementary allowance.
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Can I bring my pets from home?
Let us know in advance if you’re planning to bring a pet with you. Some apartment landlords don’t allow pets. However, you can make a special request before you join for pet-friendly accommodation and we’ll check if there’s availability. You need to make sure they have a government health certificate and the original vaccination certificate from your country of origin. Then you’ll need to apply for an import permit that lasts for a month. Then you can start the shipping procedure. -
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Can I decorate the walls of my villa or apartment?
Yes, you can decorate the interior as long as you leave the accommodation in its original condition when you leave. Otherwise there are charges to redecorate. -
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Can I opt out of company accommodation at any time and take the allowance for my own accommodation?
The accommodation allowance is only for locally recruited candidates who already live in privately purchased or rented accommodation in Dubai. -
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I am a first officer entitled to an apartment, but I want to live in a villa. Is this possible?
Only if you upgrade to captain or change family status (i.e. when you have children residing with you in Dubai). -
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Who pays my utility bills?
If you’re living in company accommodation, we pay the cost of electricity, water supply and municipality taxes up to AED 32,000 a year. Local calls to land lines are free of charge and we will provide a telephone allowance. -
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Can I share accommodation with my partner if we are not married?
According to UAE law, you are not allowed to live in the same accommodation with a person from the opposite sex if you are not married. -
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Can my friends and relatives stay at my company accommodation when they visit Dubai?
Yes they can. This is your place. If you live in an apartment, you need to notify the building security so they know who your friends and relatives are. -
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Does Emirates insure my possessions in the house or must I do that?
No, we don’t provide insurance for the house or your personal belongings. However, you can use the same insurance company Emirates uses to get the best insurance deal. -
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When can my family join me in Dubai?
It’s better for them to arrive once you have your residence visa and you have arranged their residence visa. It can take up to two weeks for your visa, and up to 10 working days to process theirs. We’ll give you a joining ticket to fly your family to Dubai once their visas have been approved.
If you travel with your family at the start of your contract, you’ll need to cover their expenses including flights, visit visas and for changing their visit visa into a residence one. -
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Who pays for the visas for my spouse and children?
Once your family’s residence visa has been approved and processed, we cover the cost and issue you with tickets to fly your family (for up to three children) to Dubai.
If you travel with your family at the start of your contract, you’ll need to cover their expenses including travel and visit visas. There’s also a cost for changing a visit visa into a residence visa, and your family may need to leave the country while the new one is processed. -
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Can my spouse work in Dubai?
Yes. There are no visa restrictions on your husband or wife working in Dubai. -
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Do I get an education allowance for my children?
Yes, we offer an education support allowance for up to three children aged between 4 and 19 who are in full time education either in Dubai or overseas:
Primary school: up to AED 47,500 per child *
Secondary school: up to AED 72,500 per child*
*Allowances are subject to company policy
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Does the education allowance for our children cover all costs?
We contribute towards the tuition and transport fees for up to three children aged 4 to 19. You can choose a school, but some schools may cost more than the allowance covers. -
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Is there a waiting list for schools?
Yes, for some schools there is a waiting list and in some cases the list is quite long. Many schools offer Emirates families priority enrolment.
We’ll give you a list of school contacts in Dubai before you join and you can make the arrangements. -
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Is there a school bus or do we have to drive our children to school?
Most schools provide transport. The costs can be covered by the education support allowance. -
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Can I also get the education allowance if my children study overseas?
For overseas education, we cover tuition fees up to the overall allowance limit, including school boarding. Other fees for things like books, transport, taxes and admission fees aren’t covered. -
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Can my children start school halfway through the year?
Yes, if the school allows it. However, children can’t start school after 30 April as the school year ends in June. -
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Is there an Emirates club I can join? If so, how much does it cost?
All our employees in the UAE can get an Emirates Platinum Card, which is a discount card you can use at over 600 shops, attractions, restaurants and more around Dubai. There’s an annual fee of AED 300, paid in monthly instalments deducted from your salary. You can also get one extra card for free for a registered dependant.
There is also a Premium Club Membership that costs around AED 140 a month. This gives you and your family access to fitness and leisure facilities at selected clubs in Dubai.
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Is it easy to hire a home assistant?
Yes, you can hire domestic help through an agency. This employee will be under your sponsorship and you need to pay the fees. You can complete their visa forms and submit the documents to the Emirates Service Centre and the team will help you with the process. -
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How do I get a liquor licence?
Check the MMI website for the documents you need:
http://www.mmidubai.com/retail/#retail_licence
You can get a salary certificate letter from the Employee Service Centre, 2nd floor Atrium level at Emirates Group Headquarters, or use the employee service machines. Then visit a liquor store to submit your application and documents.
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Can I convert my driver’s licence to a UAE licence, or do I have to take a test?
Licences issued by most European, North American, Australasian and GCC countries can be converted without a test. Otherwise you will need to take one. Please refer to https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/home/rta-services/ for further information.