Working as cabin crew for Emirates is a career choice many people explore due to the airline’s reputation for offering competitive pay and numerous perks. Whether you’re just beginning your journey in aviation or already have experience, understanding what Emirates cabin crew earn is key when considering this role. From base salaries to flying allowances, the pay structure is designed to reflect both the demands and the opportunities that come with the job.
In this article, we’ll break down how much cabin crew members at Emirates earn and cover the various elements that make up their total compensation.
Base salary: The starting point
The base salary for Emirates cabin crew is an important starting point. For those new to the industry, the base salary at Emirates is 4,835 AED per month, which is approximately 1,182 EUR or 1,316 USD.[1] This base salary is typically lower than what you might see at airlines in the UK or the US, but it’s important to note that this is just the beginning.
The base salary represents what you’ll be paid even when you’re not flying, but it’s only part of your total earnings. Emirates cabin crew are also eligible for sector pay, allowances, and other benefits that significantly boost the overall income.
Flying hours: Where earnings increase
The real earning potential for Emirates cabin crew comes from the flying hours. For every hour you spend flying, you’ll receive additional pay on top of your base salary. On average, flight attendants at Emirates can expect to earn about 66,30 AED per hour of flying, which adds up over the course of a month depending on how many hours you fly.
For example, if you fly around 80 to 100 hours per month, this could result in an extra 5,304 to 6,630 AED, which brings your total earnings to around 10,139 to 11,465 AED per month (approximately 2,480 EUR to 2,804 EUR or 2,760 USD to 3,120 USD).
Tax-free salary: A major benefit
One of the biggest advantages of working for Emirates is the tax-free salary. The UAE does not impose income tax on earnings, meaning that the salary you earn as a cabin crew member is yours to keep without deductions. This is a major benefit compared to working in countries like the UK or the US, where taxes can significantly reduce your take-home pay.
In addition, Emirates offers a free accommodation package, which can save you a significant amount of money on living expenses. Emirates cabin crew are provided with fully furnished, shared apartments in Dubai, complete with utilities.
Layover allowances: Extra income on every trip
One of the perks of being an international flight attendant is the layover allowances you receive for spending time in different cities. When you work for Emirates, you can expect a daily meal allowance for every layover, which varies depending on the destination.
For example, you may receive between 10 and 30 AED per hour during layovers, depending on the cost of living in the destination city. This allowance is meant to cover meals and small expenses, and it’s paid in cash or added to your salary. Since Emirates operates long-haul international flights to cities like London, New York, and Sydney, the layover allowances can add a substantial amount to your monthly income.
Bonuses and additional benefits
In addition to your salary and allowances, Emirates offers several bonuses and benefits that can further increase your overall compensation. These include:
- End of service bonus: After completing your contract, you will receive a bonus based on the length of time you’ve been with the airline.
- Travel benefits: Emirates offers discounted or free travel for employees and their immediate families, allowing you to explore the world in your time off.
- Health and dental coverage: Emirates cabin crew are also provided with comprehensive health and dental insurance, which helps reduce medical expenses.
- 30 days of paid leave: Every year, you’ll receive 30 days of paid annual leave, along with a free return ticket to your home country.
These bonuses and benefits can make a big difference in your overall earnings, especially over the long term.
Career growth and salary progression
One of the key advantages of working for Emirates is the opportunity for career growth. As you gain experience, you can progress to higher positions within the cabin crew team, such as senior flight attendant or purser. These roles come with additional responsibilities and significantly higher salaries.
For example, senior flight attendants can earn upwards of 6,000 AED to 20,000 AED per month (approximately 1,469 EUR to 4,896 EUR or 1,633 USD to 5,445 USD)[2], while pursers, who manage the cabin crew team, can earn even more. Emirates encourages long-term career development, and many crew members choose to stay with the airline for years, enjoying increased pay and benefits as they advance.
Ready to start your Emirates cabin crew journey? Share your thoughts below!
If you’re considering joining Emirates as cabin crew, the pay and benefits package offers an attractive opportunity. From tax-free salaries to generous layover allowances and career progression, Emirates provides a rewarding career path for those who love to travel.
Have any questions or experiences to share? We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comment section below or join our cabin crew forum, where experienced flight attendants share their insights and tips about working at Emirates.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much is the base salary for Emirates cabin crew members?
The base salary starts at about 4,835 AED per month, which is approximately 1,316 USD or 1,182 EUR.
2. Do Emirates cabin crew earn extra money from flying hours?
Yes, they earn about 66.30 AED for every hour they fly, which adds to their base salary and increases their total monthly earnings.
3. Is the salary at Emirates tax-free?
Yes, salaries are tax-free because the United Arab Emirates does not impose income tax on earnings.
4. What are layover allowances, and do Emirates cabin crew receive them?
Layover allowances are extra payments for meals and expenses during stays in other cities. Emirates cabin crew receive these allowances, and the amount varies by destination.
5. What additional benefits do Emirates cabin crew members receive?
They enjoy free furnished accommodation in Dubai, health and dental insurance, travel benefits like discounted or free flights for themselves and family, and 30 days of paid annual leave.
6. Can Emirates cabin crew advance in their careers and earn more?
Yes, there are opportunities for promotion to roles like senior flight attendant or purser, which come with higher salaries and more responsibilities.
7. Does Emirates provide housing for its cabin crew?
Yes, Emirates provides free, fully furnished shared apartments in Dubai for cabin crew members.
8. How much can an experienced Emirates cabin crew member earn in total?
With base salary, flying hours, and allowances combined, they can earn between 10,000 AED to 11,500 AED per month or more, depending on hours flown.
9. Are there bonuses available for cabin crew at Emirates?
Yes, they may receive an end-of-service bonus after completing their contract, along with other performance-based incentives.
10. What kind of travel benefits do Emirates cabin crew enjoy?
They receive discounted or free travel for themselves and immediate family members, allowing them to explore destinations during their time off.
References:
1. Emirates. “Experience the world as part of your career.” Emirates Careers Website. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
2. Glassdoor. (2024, September 11). “The Emirates Group Senior Cabin Crew Salaries in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.” Glassdoor Website. Retrieved September 16, 2024.