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Emirates vs British Airways

Cabin crew requirements, salary, and hiring process — Emirates and British Airways compared side by side, so you know exactly which one fits before you apply.

FieldEmiratesBritish Airways
Base / hubDubai, UAELondon, UK
Minimum age21+ at the time of joining18+ at the time of application
EducationHigh school graduate (12 years of formal education) minimumNo formal academic qualification required, but English/Maths/digital skills are assessed
English requirementFluent spoken and written English; a second language is an advantageFluent spoken and written English
Tattoo policyNo visible tattoos when in uniform, including short sleeves
Swim requirementMust be able to swim unaided for 25 metres and pass a swim test in training
MedicalFit-for-flying medical clearance, no visible scars or physical impairmentsFit-for-flying medical clearance
Height / reach notesArm reach 212 cm on tiptoes, minimum height 160 cm. At least 1 year of hospitality or customer service experience.Height range roughly 157–185 cm, plus a reach test of around 210–212 cm.
Basic salaryAED 4,980 basicReported total pay (base + flight pay + allowances) roughly £1,500–2,100/month
Flying payAED 69.6/flying hour, based on an average of 80–100 hours/monthFlight pay included in the total range above
Per diemTax-free per-diem on every layover, varies by destination
AccommodationFree shared accommodation in Dubai + transport to/from the airportNot provided
Total take-homeAverage AED 11,244/month (USD 3,061) tax-free for Grade II cabin crew, all-inReported total range roughly £18,000–30,000/year depending on experience
TaxUAE has no personal income tax — this is the full take-home.UK income tax applies — figures above are gross.
Hiring cadenceOpen days run in multiple cities almost every monthRecruitment opens periodically for London-based crew
Hiring statusActively hiring — Emirates runs the most frequent recruitment cycle of any Gulf carrier.Requires the right to live and work in the UK without sponsorship.

Figures reviewed August 2026 · confirm exact numbers on each airline’s careers page before applying.

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