Emirates Fly Better

Emirates – Fly Better

Emirates National Cadet Pilot Programme in Dubai

Emirates is inviting ambitious and talented UAE Nationals to join its National Cadet Pilot Programme in Dubai and train to become world-class commercial pilots. The fully sponsored programme is designed to take successful candidates from zero flying experience through intensive ground school, flight training, aircraft type rating, and line training before progressing to a First Officer position with Emirates.

Training is provided at the Emirates Flight Training Academy (EFTA) in Dubai, using advanced aviation technology, modern aircraft, flight simulators, and experienced instructors.

The programme provides a structured pathway for Emirati candidates who want to build a long-term career as a commercial airline pilot with one of the world’s leading international airlines.

What the Emirates Cadet Pilot Programme Provides

The National Cadet Pilot Programme is fully sponsored for at least four years and covers major training and living expenses, including:

Pilot training and related programme costs.
Training materials.
Accommodation during applicable training phases.
Uniforms.
Three daily meals during training at the Emirates Flight Training Academy.
Ground school and flight training.
Flight simulator experience.
Commercial Pilot Licence training.
Multi-Engine and Instrument Rating training.
Multi Crew Cooperation Course.
Jet Orientation Course.
Aircraft type rating.
Line training on Emirates widebody aircraft.

Successful graduates can progress through the Emirates pilot career pathway and ultimately operate modern Emirates aircraft as a First Officer.

Emirates National Cadet Pilot Training Phases

Phase 1 – Ground School

The approximately 12-month Ground School phase provides the academic and theoretical foundation required for professional aviation. Cadets study at Emirates Flight Training Academy using modern training technology, including advanced learning systems and virtual reality.

Phase 2 – Flight Training

The approximately 12-month Flight Training phase includes around 274 hours of flight and simulator experience at Emirates Flight Training Academy.

On successful completion, cadets can obtain qualifications including:

Commercial Pilot Licence (Frozen ATPL).
Multi-Engine and Instrument Rating.
Multi Crew Cooperation Course (MCC).
Jet Orientation Course.

Phase 3 – Aircraft Type Rating

The approximately 3-month Type Rating phase takes place at Emirates Training College. Cadets complete aircraft conversion and type-rating training to prepare for operating Emirates widebody aircraft.

Phase 4 – Line Training

The approximately 8-month Line Training phase provides practical operational experience on the Emirates aircraft type for which the cadet has been trained.

Following successful completion of the required training and regulatory requirements, cadets can progress toward a First Officer position with Emirates.

Emirates National Cadet Pilot Programme Selection Process

Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria may be invited to complete a multi-stage selection process.

Stage 1

Mathematics assessment.
Physics assessment.
Medical pre-screening at the Emirates Clinic.

Stage 2

Compass assessment.
Mental mathematics assessment.
Aviation English assessment.
Psychometric assessments.
Abstract reasoning assessment.
Spatial reasoning assessment.

Stage 3

Panel interview.
GCAA medical examination.

Candidates should prepare thoroughly for the academic, cognitive, English-language, interview, and medical requirements of the selection process.

Emirates Cadet Pilot Programme Eligibility Requirements

Applicants for the Emirates National Cadet Pilot Programme in Dubai must meet the applicable UAE National eligibility criteria.

General Requirements

Must be a UAE National.
Must hold a valid UAE passport.
Must have a valid Khulasat Al Qaid.
Must have completed National Service before joining the programme.
Minimum height of 160 cm.
Must meet the required medical fitness standards.
BMI must be 29 or below.

High School Graduates – Scientific Stream

Applicants applying as high school graduates should meet the following requirements:

Age between 18 and 21 years.
Minimum high school score of 80%.
Scientific-stream education.
Required final-year study in relevant subjects such as Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics.
Academic transcripts and high school certificates will be assessed.
IELTS score of 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element, or the required TOEFL equivalent.

Degree Holders – Diploma and Above

Degree-holder applicants should meet the following requirements:

Age between 22 and 26 years.
Minimum GPA of 3.0.
Diploma or higher qualification in a Scientific or Engineering major.
IELTS score of 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element, or the required TOEFL equivalent.

Documents Required to Apply

Candidates should prepare the required documents before starting their application. These may include:

Updated CV.
Highest educational certificate.
Valid UAE passport.
Emirates ID.
Khulasat Al Qaid.
National Service Completion Letter, where applicable.
Valid IELTS or TOEFL certificate.

Applications may not be processed until the required documents have been correctly submitted.

Emirates Cadet Pilot Salary and Benefits

The National Cadet Pilot Programme provides a structured salary progression as candidates advance through the different training phases.

Ground School – Phase 1

Salary: AED 6,365 per month including basic pay and fixed allowances. Meals and accommodation are also provided at Emirates Flight Training Academy.

Flight Training – Phase 2