So, you want to swap your office desk for 40,000 feet of altitude and a snazzy uniform, eh? Not a bad plan—especially if your idea of a good day involves saying “chicken or beef?” while cruising over the Alps.
But before you’re sipping coffee in business class (on the clock), there’s a process. A journey. A bootcamp of sorts. And if you’ve got your sights set on flying for one of the major MENA (Middle East and North Africa) airlines—or even British Airways—we’re here to walk (er, fly?) you through every step.
Grab your suitcase, because here’s everything you need to know about becoming cabin crew… and who’s serving up the best perks in the skies.
First things first: How long does it actually take?
Let’s set the scene: you’ve applied, had your assessment day, aced the interviews, and now you’re ready for training. How long does it take before you’re airborne with your tray table upright and your lipstick flawless?
Emirates
Dubai’s crown jewel. Emirates runs one of the most polished training programmes in the world. Once you’re in? You’re looking at 8 weeks of intensive training. We’re talking safety drills, medical training, firefighting (yes, literally), and fine-tuning your customer service smile until it dazzles at 35,000 feet.
You’ll train at their world-class aviation centre in Dubai—it’s a bit like Hogwarts, but with life jackets and turbulence.
Also read: How to become a cabin crew for Emirates — the ultimate 2025 guide
Etihad Airways
Abu Dhabi’s finest gets you prepped in roughly 7 weeks. Their programme covers all the essentials: emergency procedures, first aid, security, and that signature five-star service.
It’s thorough, it’s slick, and it all happens in the heart of the UAE’s capital. Pack sunscreen and your best ironing skills.
Qatar Airways
Welcome to Doha, home of precision and polish. Training at Qatar is somewhere between 6 to 8 weeks, depending on how quickly your group masters the curriculum.
It’s known to be strict. High standards. Military-style punctuality. But if you’re keen to be a perfectionist in the skies, this one’s for you.
Also read: How to become a cabin crew member at Qatar Airways: Your complete 2025 guide
British Airways
London calling! If you’re headed to BA, expect a 4 to 6 week training period. It’s slightly shorter than the Gulf airlines, but don’t be fooled—it’s still rigorous. You’ll be trained in everything from evacuations to expertly pouring tea during turbulence.
Bonus? You’ll be learning near Heathrow, so say hello to Greggs sausage rolls on your lunch break.
So, what’s the application process like?
While every airline has its nuances, the cabin crew application process generally includes:
- Online Application – Get your CV polished and your photos taken.
- Video Interview or Assessment Day – Practice smiling with your eyes.
- Final Interview – This is where they’ll test your interpersonal skills and see if you’re ready to represent the airline.
- Medical and Background Checks – No secrets allowed.
- Relocation & Training – Pack your bags, it’s go-time.
Depending on the airline, from application to being rostered on your first flight could take 3–6 months in total. The actual training might be only a couple of months, but the whole journey from “submit” to “boarding door closed” takes a bit of patience.
Perks, pay and posh pads: which airline treats you best?
Let’s be honest—we all want the glamorous lifestyle. But glamour comes in many forms: tax-free salaries, free apartments, unlimited travel perks… you get the idea.
So, who offers what?
Emirates – the gold standard of glam
- Starting Pay: AED 10,000+ per month (that’s about USD 2,700), tax-free.
- Accommodation: Free, furnished apartments in Dubai. Utilities? Covered.
- Travel Perks: Discounted flights for you and your family, plus buddy passes.
- Other Goodies: Dental and medical insurance, 30 days annual leave, annual leave ticket home, and discounts across Dubai like you’re royalty.
Oh, and the staff cafeteria? You’ll eat better than most cafes in Sydney. True story. Check out more on our
Etihad – the boutique luxury experience
- Starting Pay: Up to USD 2,500 monthly depending on hours flown.
- Accommodation: Chic apartments in Abu Dhabi, shared but swish.
- Travel Perks: Unlimited discounted flights for your close family and major global partners.
- Other Goodies: Worldwide medical insurance, access to lounges, discounts with local gyms, restaurants, salons—you name it.
If Emirates is Hollywood glam, Etihad is that quiet 5-star resort you don’t tell everyone about.
Qatar Airways – precision and prestige
- Starting Pay: QAR 9,500–13,000 (USD 2,600–3,500), also tax-free.
- Accommodation: Top-tier shared apartments with all utilities sorted.
- Travel Perks: Explore 170+ destinations with staff rates so good, you might travel on your days off just because you can.
- Other Goodies: Free transport to/from work, healthcare, and a seriously polished company culture.
Expect rules, yes. But also high-flying rewards and one of the most professional reputations in aviation.
British Airways – the classic career path
- Starting Pay: £22,000–£28,000 annually including flying pay and allowances.
- Accommodation: You’re on your own, mate. But there are hotel stays on layovers that make up for it.
- Travel Perks: Big discounts on British Airways and Oneworld partners—perfect for European weekend getaways.
- Other Goodies: Pension scheme, paid annual leave, and access to London’s famous crew culture (yes, it’s a thing).
Sure, it’s not as shiny as the Gulf offers, but BA has prestige, legacy, and some of the best routes around the globe.
Side-by-side comparison table
| Airline | Training Time | Starting Salary (Monthly) | Free Accommodation | Top Perk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates | 8 weeks | AED 10,000+ | Yes | Full medical & annual flight home |
| Etihad Airways | ~7 weeks | USD 2,500 | Yes | Unlimited family travel discounts |
| Qatar Airways | 6–8 weeks | QAR 9,500–13,000 | Yes | 170+ discounted travel destinations |
| British Airways | 4–6 weeks | £1,800–£2,300 | No | Oneworld travel network access |
Which one should you choose?
Now we’re getting into the fun part—which airline fits your vibe?
- Pick Emirates if you’re chasing luxury, want to live in Dubai, and want a big airline name on your CV.
- Choose Etihad if you prefer a more boutique feel with many of the same perks as Emirates, but a slightly smaller, more intimate crew community.
- Go Qatar Airways if you’re a perfectionist, love structure, and want the most destinations at your fingertips.
- Opt for British Airways if you’d rather stay close to Europe, enjoy layovers in cities like New York and Tokyo, and want a long-term airline career in the UK.
And honestly? Whichever you choose, you’ll have the experience of a lifetime.
Final boarding call
Becoming cabin crew isn’t just a job—it’s a lifestyle. It’s waking up in Rome, going to bed in Bangkok, and occasionally sipping Champagne next to a Formula 1 driver (true story from an ex-Emirates crew member).
Sure, the journey to the skies takes time, effort, and plenty of paperwork. But once you’re up there? It’s all worth it.
If you’ve got the passion, the patience, and the poise—your wings are waiting.
