Does Emirates conduct reference checks, if so, what’s the process? I flew for Etihad and I’m just wondering if it’s the same. I’m going to an OD next week and should I be successful and make it to the FI, I would rather not tell my current employer until it’s absolutely necessary. Thanks

Hey there,
When I joined EK they didnt check any references, that was back in 2016, but Im not sure if the process has changed.
Either way, I wouldnt hide it from them, as eventually they might find out. Its way better to start not hiding anything from them.
Since you have already had a visa in the UAE, its something very easy to find out about.
If Im not mistaken in one of the forms we fill out when joining theres a question like this “have u ever been to UAE before? “ so Im sure they would check if you leaving there was in good terms (as in not staying in the country over the validity of your visa, Police records, etc)
But I really think they wouldnt contact Etihad.
Wish you all the best on the OD!

They don't do reference checks - just security and medical :)