Emirates / Etihad / Qatar crew: what’s it really like living in the Middle East?

Online research can only tell so much.

Is it generally quite nice? Are the other crew friendly? Etc

I previously worked for a British carrier and am weighing up my options with the Middle Easterns

It can be a culture shock, you might love it or hate it.... It's different for everyone. Qatar is much stricter than Etihad/Emirates in terms of working for a Middle Eastern airline. Standard of living is usually quite good with accommodation, transport etc. paid for and it can be quite a nice lifestyle. Crews are generally friendly, but like everywhere there will always be the odd one... Research is good and maybe a few crew members here might give their opinion. I would say to be aware of the rules of the country and follow those and you'll be just fine. I love the Middle east personally for quality of life but it doesn't suit everyone!

Hey,

You have to keep in mind that these 3 Airlines have differences.
Emirates/Etihad are not so strict, but you still need to follow their rules as it is muslim country. So for example if you are girl, non-family guy friends can not stay at your place over night.
On the other side Qatar is more strict, you have to be home during the night, you have to be home 11 hours before the flight at home (they do call you on your home phone) and etc.

Other collegues can be nice and not pleasant to work with, but I think every job has this dinamic, so nothing new. But in general you would find many friends, as every single one is in the same boat as you.

When you get used to this life style it is pretty good, but you have to keep in mind that it is not going to same life you lived Europe.