Working as a cabin crew member at Emirates offers fantastic benefits, but you'll have to meet a long list of requirements to qualify.

The airline has been hosting recruitment drives worldwide and across Canada to expand its team. It aims to hire over 5,000 people, including 200 Canadians, to join its 23,200 cabin crew members.

We asked Emirates about the jobs. Our queries covered criteria for jobseekers, perks, pay, and more.

An Emirates representative told us the carrier looks for people who "embody professionalism, cultural awareness, and a passion for adventure."

"Ideal candidates are passionate about travelling with a curiosity to explore new destinations and cultures," they stated. "They thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and are eager to deliver exceptional service while embracing the unique lifestyle of a global airline."

What it's like to apply in person

Candidates can attend open days without applying beforehand. However, for a "smoother and quicker process," they are encouraged to apply online before the event.

"Candidates meet with an Emirates recruiter for an initial assessment and share their CV," stated a representative. "Here, they will learn all about the role and life in Dubai as well as the benefits offered by the organization."

If you're among the shortlisted candidates, you'll go through more interviews and assessments and a final interview with the recruiter.

"The timeline from attending the initial open day to receiving a job offer can vary depending on the candidate's location and the volume of applicants," they said. "Emirates ensures the process is as streamlined and efficient as possible for candidates."

The requirements

Interested in applying? You must be at least 21 years old, fluent in English, and have at least one year of experience in hospitality, retail, or restaurant. You must also have a minimum of high school or grade 12 education and meet many other requirements.

To be considered, you must be at least 160 cm (around 5'2″ inches) tall and be able to reach 212 cm (around 7 ft) high. You also cannot have tattoos that are visible while wearing the uniform.

Since many Canadians have tattoos, we asked the carrier why this requirement is necessary.

"This is part of our uniform standards as we fly to more than 140 destinations worldwide and, in some cultures, visible tattoos are deemed offensive or can be misunderstood as being aggressive or hostile," explained the representative.

Candidates must go through a detailed health screening. Health issues such as allergies must be managed to "minimize the impact on the individual, operations, customer service, and safety."

Emirates states that the airline complies with laws and regulations in the countries it serves and does not exclude candidates based on their health declarations.

We contacted Emirates to ask about the forms candidates must fill out but was told they cannot be shared externally.

You must also meet the requirements to apply for a work visa in the UAE.

"Emirates complies with all UAE laws and regulations, including the country's employment visa requirements for newcomers," stated Emirates.

To apply, your passport must be valid for at least six months. The UAE visa work requirements include a detailed medical assessment, and foreigners will be tested for HIV and tuberculosis.

The training process

Those who get a job offer must undergo a complimentary cabin crew training program.

"Cabin crew undergo an intensive 7.5 weeks' training program hosted at the airline's state-of-the-art facility in Dubai," stated the representative.

New recruits are taught life-saving skills in safety and emergency procedures and essential first aid. They also undergo service training and learn about skincare and nutrition. During the Image and Uniform training session, they receive advice on well-being.

The benefits

Being a cabin crew member at Emirates comes with some solid perks.

Recruits are offered a starting monthly salary of 10,802 AED ($4,235 CAD). This includes a basic monthly salary of 4,836 AED ($1,896 CAD) and an hourly flying pay of 66.30 AED (C$26 CAD) based on an average of 80 to 100 flying hours per month. In addition, Emirates provides meal allowances for layovers.

Crew members also don't have to worry about rent as shared accommodation for two to three colleagues is included in the compensation package. Similarly, transportation to and from work and training facilities is free.

Staff can access benefits such as concessional travel for themselves, family, and friends through Emirates or partner airlines. They also receive one free ticket to use in the Emirates' network each year.

As for vacations, they're entitled to 30 days of annual leave and eight days off every month in Dubai. Emirates also provides comprehensive medical and dental coverage through Emirates clinics, as well as 24-hour worldwide life and personal accident insurance.

The FACE (Flight Attendant Club of Emirates) card also gives crew members and their dependents discounts at retail stores, clubs, gyms, clinics, cafes, restaurants, and hospitality outlets worldwide.

How to apply

Emirates Airlines has several upcoming recruitment drives:

• February 12 at 9 am – Hilton Vancouver Metrotown, 6083 McKay Avenue, Burnaby, BC
• February 14 at 9 am — Novotel Toronto Centre, 45 The Esplanade, Toronto, Ontario

Can't make it in person? You can also apply online on Emirates' careers website.