The Emirates Group Careers Center

Browse the FAQ categories on the right to explore specific questions and answers relevant to each of the sections.

Working for Emirates

• Logbook requirements

  • What are the minimum requirements for First Officer?

    -A minimum of 4000 hours total flying time (may include 25% P3 or FEO time to a max of 500 hours).
    -A minimum of 2000 hours multi-crew, multi-engine jet aircraft (P3 time cannot be used for this requirement).
    OR
    - A minimum of 2500 hours total flying time on a modern commercial multi-engine, multi-crew aircraft jet (P3 time cannot be used for this requirement).
    
    We do not accept simulator time for flying hours calculation.
    
    - Must hold a valid ICAO ATPL.
    - English language fluency (written and verbal comprehension); ICAO English level (4 or above).
    - Must be current within 12 months of joining.

  • Do I have to hold certified logbooks?

    It is a requirement that the candidate provide complete certified logbook records when they are invited for the selection process. It is unacceptable to have some years missing, misplaced or otherwise. Prior to joining, all pilots must provide certified evidence of hours flown. This can either be a stamp in their logbook from their Fleet Manager/Chief Pilot verifying their hours flown or a stamped original letter from the record/fleet department of their respective airline/authority.

  • Does Emirates intend to recruit direct entry Captains?

    We are currently considering candidates for the Direct Entry Captain position.

• Career path and rostering

  • How does the Emirates training bond apply?

    All First Officers sign a training bond for a period of three years (US$36,000) on a decreasing pro-rata basis.

  • When can I expect to be upgraded to Captain?

    Company criteria for command upgrade are as follows: 

    - A minimum of 6,000 hours Total Time.

    - 2500 hours Emirates operating time on any EK aircraft type. Of these 2500 hours, a minimum of 1000 hours actual time in an operating seat (Stick Time) must have been completed on the EK aircraft type on which the upgrade is planned before the commencement of the upgrade training.

    - Possession of valid UAE ATPL.

    - A minimum of 3 years of service in Emirates prior to promotion to Captain.

    - Four satisfactory PPCs in Emirates on any aircraft type

    - Two PPC’s successfully completed on the fleet in which the upgrade is planned. Command opportunities are offered to First Officers who meet the above requirements and have achieved satisfactory performance and attendance reviews.

  • What is the duration of the contract of employment?

    Unless stated otherwise, the contract of employment is permanent and open (i.e. no fixed duration).

  • If I am selected how is my Fleet type decided?

    Whilst past experience and candidate’s preference is taken into account, this will not always determine the fleet type as allocation is based solely on Emirates’ operational requirements.

  • Can I change fleets?

    When Emirates’ operational requirements deem it necessary to transfer between fleets you can express your interest or volunteer for the transfer as it will be based on seniority.

  • Can I apply for Emirates Cadet program?

    The current Emirates Cadet Program is available for U.A.E. nationals only.

  • What is the probation period?

    The probation period is six months commencing from your date of joining.

  • How does the rostering system work?

    The rostering system is a rotating cycle, so each group becomes the top priority for bidding (favourite flights, etc.) every 5 months. Within the groups there is a seniority list, however when you are in the top most group, you have a strong chance of receiving the duties you request. Bid preferences include: Destination, Regions, Days off, requesting pairing length, check-in time, etc. Reserve/standby is usually rostered for each group every 10 months or there about for duration of 35 days which will be allocated in the bottom bid groups.

  • How long are the flight duties/sectors in Emirates?

    The sectors range from 50 minutes to 17 hours.

  • How long is a layover duty?

    Layover trips generally range from 24 hours to 72 hours. The maximum multi-stop layover duty is 9 days.

  • What happens if I am on holiday and can’t complete my bid for the next month?

    The system allows you to place a ‘standing’ bid, which will be registered in the system and will be the one selected if no monthly bid is made.

  • How long does the process of becoming a pilot with Emirates take?

    The typical period between filling an online application and receiving a confirmed job offer is within 2-3 months.

  • How long does the interview process for pilot recruitment take?

    As per current processes, the interview is generally held over 4 days in Dubai. We have recently introduced a pre-selection program in certain locations around the world which is designed to cover some aspects of the selection and shorten the time required for the remaining assessment conducted in Dubai.

  • Where are the interviews held?

    The major part of the recruitment process is held in Dubai. Pre-selection is now available overseas for the benefit of candidates who cannot take much time off work. It may include a SIM assessment, psychometric testing and Advanced Compass modules.

• Financial issues

  • When do we get pay rises? Are annual increments guaranteed?

    The Company reviews salaries on an annual basis and generally awards pilots a ‘step rise’ in salary, subject to satisfactory performance, however this payment is not contractual.

  • 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 2-14 weeks of basic salary. All employees must be employed for the complete period 1st April – 31st March in the preceding year to be eligible for the full profit share payment. If you join after the 31st March and before 30th September you are entitled to a pro rata amount. If you join after 30th September you will have to wait until the end of next financial year to be eligible for the profit share.

  • What is “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). The ERP scheme is intended to provide you 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 received each month is protected.

  • Do I pay tax on our salary?

    The salary you receive from Emirates is tax free. You may have to check the taxation laws in your home country of residence for any possible income taxation.

  • What is the provident fund?

    Our alternative to the pension scheme is the Provident Fund. Full details of the scheme are provided on joining the company. A = the amount that the company contributes-12% of basic salary B = Compulsory amount for employee 5% of monthly basic salary C = voluntary additional contributions made by employee. Eligibility for payout of the Provident fund on leaving Emirates is linked to your length of service. You will receive the market value of your contributions to the Account B and C fund, but will need to have completed 7 years’ service to be entitled to the full 100% of the market value of Account A, or 5-7 years to be entitled to 75% of Emirates contributions to Account A. For service periods of less than 5 years you are entitled to End of Service Benefit payments.

  • How is the fund doing at present?

    The fund is linked to the Stock Market (Global Stock Market).

  • Can I manage the fund myself?

    The fund is managed by a Provident Scheme Officer. Should you wish to change the investment of your funds (based on fluctuations on the Stock Market) you may make changes up to 6 times per year free of charge. You get 2 free consultations per year and can monitor your accounts online.

  • Can I take the money from the company and invest it myself?

    At the present time this option is not available.

  • Do I need to open a UAE bank account?

    Yes, since your salary is paid monthly in local currency.

  • Do I get transportation allowance?

    No, the company provides free transportation to and from work.

  • Do I have to pay to travel to Dubai for my interview?

    We provide invited candidates with a return Economy class ticket (upgradable to Business) to Dubai from their nearest destination on the Emirates network.

  • Does the education allowance for our children cover all costs?

    We contribute tuition and transport fees for 3 children, ages 4-19. Parents can choose which school they prefer for their children, and some schools may cost more than the allowance covers.

• Medical

  • Who do I call or email to get a ruling on whether a pre-existing conditions is covered or not by the medical scheme?

    The final decision is taken by our Chief Medical Officer and you will be advised before joining. As with all insurance companies, there is an exclusion list and a pre-existing condition is normally exclusion for the first 2 years of employment.

  • Is medical service available?

    Yes, when outside of clinic hours you can go to the emergency section in selected hospitals that will treat you without any payment required upon presenting your Emirates ID card.

  • Is there an ambulance service here?

    Yes, through the government hospitals and through private hospitals.

  • What do I do if a member of my family is seriously injured?

    There are excellent Accident and Emergency services (A&E) through the private hospitals namely: Welcare Hospital, American Hospital, with which Emirates has direct billing service.

  • Is there a pre joining medical for families?

    Yes, it is a requirement for the Company medical scheme. All persons joining the scheme must complete a medical and dental check.

  • If I fail my pre-joining medical, will I be told the reason?

    This is at the discretion of the Company.

  • Why are the HIV/Hepatitis B and TB tests required?

    The above tests are a government requirement in order to be granted a residence visa. A positive result will lead to termination of employment and deportation.

  • What if I am sick for more than 15 days?

    As stated in the contract, for absence due to sickness/accident or industrial injury the following applies: Absence due to incapacity must be supported by a medical certificate and issued by a company doctor (after completion of a 6 month notice period) full basic salary will be paid for up to 52 weeks.

  • Am I covered by Emirates for loss of license?

    Yes, full details can be found in the Employee Handbook on joining the company. Maximum Claims: Up to 57 years: 3 x annual basic salary. From 57 to 58: 2 x annual basic salary. From 58 to 59: 1 annual basic salary. Ages 59 and over: Nil. Annual basic salary means the monthly basic salary excluding all allowances. If loss of license is due to a ‘pre-existing condition' it is not covered by this insurance. There are various private schemes available which you can arrange, or you may wish to continue with an existing coverage that you have in your own country.

  • Do I have to get a sick note if I go sick for a flight?

    No. Emirates currently operate a ‘self-certification’ system whereby the flight crew can call sick for a flight without a visit to the clinic. Restrictions and conditions apply to this system and full details will be made available to you on joining the company.

• Entitlement of leave and time off

  • How many days off will I get in a month?

    You will be entitled to a minimum of 8 days off per month.

  • If my family remains in my home country, is it possible for me to commute?

    Emirates does not support or condone the commuting of Flight Crew.

  • Is it possible to leave Dubai when I have days off?

    You may leave Dubai when you have days off, all you have to do is to fill the “away from base” form on the crew portal so the company know your location. You are also required to provide a contact telephone number and address.

  • How much leave will I be entitled to and how do I apply for leave?

    You will be entitled to 42 days leave per year. Primary Leave, which must be from 21-28 days in duration, is allocated by a bidding system through the Flight Crew Portal; allocation is dependent on when leave was taken in the previous year and on fleet seniority.

  • Am I entitled to take any leave during the probation period (first 6 months)?

    No. Leave requests will not be authorized during the probation period. Special cases will be looked into and considered on a one to one basis.

  • When do my staff travel benefits start?

    Rebate travel concessions apply after 6 months service (apart from 50% (Cat C) firm ticket).

  • How are stopover allowances paid?

    Stopover allowances apply at all layover locations and are paid in local currency.

  • What concessional travel do I receive for my family?

    -Single staff = Mother, Father, Brother, Sister. - Married = Mother, Father, Brother, Sister, mother-in-law, father-in-law. Their annual entitlement is unlimited firm tickets (ID50%) and 2 x ID90% sub load ticket on Emirates. In addition, a wider range of relatives are entitled to a max. of 10 firm (ID50%) tickets per year. Your spouse and children up to age 21 (or 23 if in full time education) are entitled to unlimited concessional tickets.

  • What class of Cabin am I entitled to?

    Captains are eligible for Business Class travel with upgrade to First Class on a space available basis at the time of departure when traveling on Emirates services. • First Officers are eligible for Economy Class travel with upgrade to Business Class on a space available basis at the time of departure when traveling on Emirates services. • However children under 16 are not eligible for the upgrade.

• What happens before and after applying

  • If my application is short listed, is it possible to defer attendance in the Selection Program?

    You may contact Pilot Recruitment via email on pilot.recruitment@emirates.com to advise us if you wish your application to be considered at a later date. If, however you have been scheduled to attend an interview which you initially accept and later decline with less than one week’s notice, your application may be closed, with no opportunity to re-apply at a later date.

  • If I am selected and have a bond with my current airline, will Emirates pay the remainder of the bond?

    The payment of an outstanding bond amount from a previous employer is the responsibility of the individual.

  • If I am not successful in the Selection Program, is it possible to reapply?

    Yes, you can reapply after a period of 24 months.

Moving to Dubai

• Accommodation and domestic help

  • Where in Dubai can I expect to be accommodated? (Location)

    The location is subject to availability at the time of joining. But a request could always be placed.

  • What are my Accommodation entitlements as First Officer?

    As a single or married First Officer without children you are entitled to either furnished or unfurnished two or three bedroom company apartment OR if married with dependent children who are residing in Dubai you will be entitled to either furnished or unfurnished company villa OR in both cases the utilities allowance of DHS 159,840 pa. Upon upgrade to Captain your entitlement will be as the below mentioned.

  • What are my Accommodation entitlements as Captain?

    As a Captain you are entitled to either furnished or unfurnished three or four bedrooms company villa regardless of marital status/children or utilities allowance of DHS 179,400 pa.

  • What should I expect to find in my accommodation when I arrive?

    Should you choose the furnished option, your accommodation will be furnished with living/dining room/bedroom furniture with curtains and lamps provided. We also provide a ‘starter pack’ in all company accommodation which includes linen, kitchen items and crockery. During the first week of joining the company you will receive AED 3,300 to purchase supplementary items. You will be issued with a list of items in the starter pack with your contract. The cost of furniture/starter pack, which is valued at AED 45,000, is amortized in equal monthly amounts over a period of 5 years. If an employee leaves the company before the value of the furnishings allowance have been fully amortized, the employee will repay the company the unamortized value of the furnishings. You may not return the company furniture in lieu of any outstanding unamortized amount. The starter pack and supplementary allowance are not given to those selecting the Utilities Allowance option or the unfurnished option.

  • Can I bring my pets from home?

    Some landlords (apartment accommodation) do not allow any pets. However, a special request may be made prior to joining (subject to availability). You will be required to advise Emirates in advance if you are planning to bring a pet with you, and you have to make sure that your pets have a government health certificate and the original vaccination certificate from your country of origin; then you will have to apply for an import permit that lasts for one month. Then you can start the shipping procedure.

  • Can I decorate the walls of my villa/apartment?

    You may choose to change the colours, however when you are leaving the premises, it is your responsibility to leave the accommodation in its original condition and colour, to avoid charges.  

  • Can I opt-out of the Emirates Housing Scheme any time and take the money to sort out my own accommodation?

    If you want to OPT-OUT of company accommodation you must apply for permission to draw the Utilities allowance in writing, before making any commitment to lease or purchase alternative accommodation. Please note that if you opt for the Utilities Allowance, you will be liable to pay the costs of electricity, water supply and municipality charges and you will not be able to change back to company accommodation.

  • Should I bring out my furniture? If so, will Emirates help with the cost of it?

    You can bring your furniture in all cases but Emirates will only help with the relocation of you furniture by allowing you 100 kgs unaccompanied baggage (each for you and your spouse) and 25 per each child, and if you choose the unfurnished company accommodation you will be given a one off furniture allowance DHS 45,000 which you can use for the relocation of your furniture as Emirates does not pay for the relocation directly.

  • What power supply is used here?

    It is 220 volt.

  • What television system is used here? NTSC or PAL?

    It is a PAL system. There are many companies offering different packages for satellite TV channels, e.g. Orbit, Star TV, Showtime or Firstnet. Packages vary, offering emphasis on sports, children’s channels, UK or US channels, etc.

  • I am entitled to an apartment but I want to live in a villa, is this possible?

    No, as you get what you are entitled to. However, on upgrade to Captain and change of family status (i.e. when you have children residing with you in Dubai) you will be entitled to a villa. Another option is to opt out of company accommodation and use your allowance to rent a villa.

  • Can I choose the colours of my soft furnishings?

    Unfortunately not as the company furniture comes in a standard design.

  • Can my friends and relatives who come to visit me stay at my villa?

    Yes, they can, as this is your place. If you reside in an apartment, you are required to notify the building security (if company provided accommodation).

  • Does Emirates insure my possessions in the house or must I do that?

    Emirates do not provide insurance neither for the house nor for your personal belongings, but you can use the insurance company that Emirates deals with so you get the best insurance deal.

  • Is there an Emirates club I can join? If so, how much does it cost?

    There is a pilot club called Emirates Pilot Club that costs DHS 75 per pilot and DHS 150 per couple per month. The membership gives you a wide choice of health clubs that you can use for free or at a very low cost, and a choice of restaurants with very good discounts. You will have to check the availability of the offers at the time.

  • Is it easy to hire a home assistant?

    Yes. Simply fill in a visa form and submit the documents to Emirates HR services and they will direct you as to what to do next. This employee will be under your sponsorship and you will have to pay all fees incurred.

  • How much do you have to pay a home assistant?

    It depends on the individual’s nationality and you must adhere to the government requirements of minimum salary and annual leave entitlements. (Please note some governments stipulate a minimum salary for their citizens employed overseas).

  • Can we hire a home assistant and a driver?

    No – you may sponsor only one person.

  • Can single pilots sponsor home help of the opposite sex?

    Single pilots can only sponsor home assistants of the same sex. There are many cleaning companies that provide home help by the hour and the prices are very reasonable.

  • Who pays my electricity, water and telephone bills?

    Emirates we will pay the costs of electricity, water supply and municipality taxes (if the employee resides in company accommodation). The local calls to land lines are free of charge and the company will provide a telephone allowance.

  • If I am selected as an Emirates pilot, can I live in a city of my choice?

    All our pilots are based in Dubai, and accommodation in Dubai is provided by Emirates.

  • If I am selected, where will I live in Dubai?

    We provide accommodation in Dubai for all our pilots. Single pilots are provided a 2 bedroom apartment, and married pilots without children a 3 bedroom apartment. Married pilots with children who still live with them are provided a villa. Alternatively, Emirates provides an accommodation allowance and this can be used to rent an apartment or villa to suit personal preferences.

• Schooling

  • 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. It is entirely your responsibility to find a school place for your child. We will supply you with a list of schools in Dubai with all their contact numbers.

  • What if my children do not speak English? What school will they get in?

    There are 3 schools, at least that, you can enrol your children in if they do not speak English. Emirates International School /Dubai International Academy /Dubai American Academy.

  • Is there a school bus or do we have to drive our children to school?

    Some schools operate transport, others don’t. Transport allowance is covered by the education support scheme.

  • Do I get Education Support Allowance?

    Yes, Support Allowances (for up to 3 children) are as follows: • Primary School AED 40,000 maximum per child (Emirates pay 100% of the first AED 20,000 and 90% of the balance, up to a limit of AED 40,000 per academic year) • Secondary School AED 60,000 per child (Emirates pay 100% of the first AED 30,000 and 90% of the balance, up to a limit of AED 60,000 per academic year)

  • Can I also get this allowance if my children study overseas?

    Yes, all you need to do is present the school bills to refund your money.

  • If my children go away to school do I get the full allowance to do with it as I wish or must I get the school to bill Emirates?

    You always have to present Emirates with the receipt from the school to refund your money.

  • What time does school start and finish?

    The school year starts in the beginning of September and finishes in the end of June with two weeks break between the end of December to mid-January and end of March to mid-April and the timings are 0745am to 1530pm.

  • Can I bring my children to start school halfway through the year?

    If the school is prepared to offer a place to your child then they may start during the school year. However a child cannot enter after the 30th April each year as the school year ends in June.

  • Is there any crime in the schools such as drugs?

    Generally the schools are well disciplined and a crime is an individual act that is tolerated by neither the school nor the national authority. Most schools are virtually crime free.

• Social and family matters

  • Can my spouse join me as soon as my visa is issued?

    It will take 5-7 working days to process your spouse’s visa once yours is processed after your arrival.

  • Who pays for the visas for my spouse and children?

    Emirates will pay for it, if your family travel to Dubai on their joining tickets, before the residence visa is issued, there is a requirement to pay the cost of transferring the visa from visit to residence type, or they may be required to exit the country while the visa is being processed. You will be responsible for paying the cost of transfer of the visa or the cost of the tickets if they arrive before the visa is processed. Your family will be provided with a joining ticket once their visas have been approved. (Please note Emirates covers the costs for up to three children).

  • Can my spouse work here?

    Yes, most employment agencies in Dubai have websites, where your spouse can view vacancies and register his/her CV.

  • Can my spouse start his/her own business here? Who would be his/her sponsor?

    Yes. He/she is likely to require a ‘local’ sponsor (a UAE national), however this is not always necessary as there is a free zone when one can open their business.

  • Can I share accommodation with my partner if we are not married?

    According to the UAE laws, you are not allowed to reside in the same accommodation on a permanent basis with a person from the opposite sex if you are not married.

  • How do I get a Liquor License?

    You may apply through our Employee Service Centre on the 2nd Floor (Atrium level) of the Emirates Group Headquarters Building.

  • Can I convert my driver’s license to UAE or must I take a test?

    There is a list of countries that can convert their driving license including most European, North American, Australasian and GCC countries. If not on this list, a test is required. Please check with Recruitment prior to joining.

  • What is the car loan that Emirates offer and what is the cost of the car insurance?

    We offer a Dhs 70,000 interest free car loan which must be paid back on a monthly basis (deducted from your salary). The maximum repayment period is over 48 months. You may apply for the loan as soon as you join the company. The insurance varies between 5 – 7 % of the value of the vehicle. It is advisable to ‘shop around’ for the best rates and also to bring a ‘No Claims’ letter from your previous Insurance Company as you may be entitled to a discount if you provide such a letter.

  • Are there restrictions on women driving in UAE?

    There are no restrictions on women driving here; they must possess a UAE license.

  • Are there restrictions generally on women clothing, going out alone?

    In general women are treated with great respect here and there is no restriction on clothing (however situational awareness must be exercised in certain parts of town). It is much westernised here and life for females is comfortable.

  • If I am a Muslim am I allowed to apply for a liquor license?

    According to the UAE law, Muslims cannot apply for a liquor license.

  • Is there a Drug problem in Dubai?

    Drugs are very strictly against the law. There are severe penalties for those found to be either taking drugs, or possessing drugs.

  • Is there much crime in Dubai?

    Compared to other cities there is very little crime in Dubai, however common sense and precaution are advised. House burglaries and petty theft do occur.

  • Will you help transfer my personal belongings to Dubai?

    You will be provided a free freight allowance of 100 kgs, and your spouse can claim an additional 100 kgs. Each child in your family will also be entitled to a free allowance of 25 kgs. You may use your furniture allowance towards shipping costs as well should you wish to ship your furniture from your home country.