Dubai

Ditching the gloomy UK for the blue skies of Dubai is an appealing thought to alot of us. But there are strict rules locals and visitors must abide by, or risk being imprisoned

Now more than ever, Brits are looking to ditch the grey skies for a more desirable lifestyle under the year-round sunshine of Dubai.

The hugely popular city in the United Arab Emirates offers tax-free income, appealing career opportunities with higher earning potentials and low crime rates within a modern infrastructure. Its appeal is only enhanced by its luxury shopping complexes, golden sand beaches, impressive architecture and its yearly warm weather.

Despite welcoming more than 15 million tourists every year, it still holds some strict laws and traditions that visitors and locals must follow. One of which is an easily mistaken crime that could land you in prison, according to a Brit who lives there.

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Janelle Ciara discovered this stern custom after uprooting her life from the gloomy UK to sunny Dubai. The Brit originally thought she’d only be living in the emirate for a month, but after quickly adjusting to life in the lavish city, she extended her stay and is currently in the process of getting a visa.

Navigating her new way of life in Dubai, Janelle learnt that swearing or using rude gestures, even on social media, could get her in serious trouble. In a video on TikTok (@janelleciara1), she revealed: “There are some people that have actually been fined for even sharing rude or swearing messages across WhatsApp, Facebook and other social media platforms.”

On the Gov.uk website for the United Arab Emirates, it states: “It is illegal to swear and make rude gestures, including online, as they are considered obscene acts. You could be jailed or deported. Take particular care when dealing with the police and other officials.”

Janelle’s video accumulated 2.6 million views as she went on to detail a list of other crimes that “will send an English person into a coma”. Another is the consumption of alcohol and being drunk in public.

While drinking alcohol is no longer a criminal offence in Dubai, and a licence fee is no longer required for residents or tourists, you cannot drink in public places. Janelle explained: “Drinking or being drunk is not allowed in public areas. You’re only allowed to drink in licensed venues – that can be bars, restaurants and hotels. But if you are drunk in public, you can be fined and even put into prison.”

In addition to this, PDA (Public Displays of Affection) is also frowned upon. “You can get in a lot of trouble for this,” Janelle said. In 2010, a British couple were arrested after allegedly sharing a kiss on the mouth at a restaurant, with locals dubbing it a violation of the country’s decency laws.

Ayman Najafi, 24, and Charlotte Adams, 25, appealed their conviction and stated it was simply a peck on the cheek. However, the pair lost their appeal and were sentenced to a month in jail before being deported. “Showing affection in public is frowned upon. You can be arrested for kissing in public,” the Gov.uk website states.

There are also strict rules when it comes to same-sex relationships in the Emirates. Janelle revealed: “Penalties for same-sex relationships could be deportation or imprisonment.”

The Gov.uk website also states: “Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the UAE, and same-sex marriages are not recognised. “

Dressing modestly is a custom that is strongly advised and followed by locals and visitors, especially when out in public, as it’s an Islamic country. However, there’s no official dress code, and it’s typically alot more relaxed when staying at a hotel.

The Brit shared in the video: “You can’t be nude in public and it is advised that when you’re in public spaces to cover up and dress modestly. If you are leaving the beach, make sure you cover up afterwards.”

On the dress code, the Gov.uk website states: “Dress modestly in public areas like shopping malls:

• Women should cover shoulders and knees, and underwear should not be visible
• Avoid transparent clothing or any attire that features imagery or phrases that could potentially offend others
• Swimming attire should only be worn on beaches or at swimming pools
• Cross-dressing is illegal

“Some venues, events or buildings may have specific dress codes.”

British heavyweight Moses Itauma has been told he must “wait his turn” after Kubrat Pulev agreed to defend his WBA ‘regular’ title against Murat Gassiev in Dubai on 12 December.

Pulev, 44, was ordered to defend his secondary WBA belt against 20-year-old Itauma but has agreed to face former cruiserweight world champion Gassiev instead.

Queensberry’s Frank Warren, who promotes Itauma, said earlier this week that his team were “pursuing” a fight with the Bulgarian.

But Pulev’s promoter Ivaylo Gotzev, who is the CEO of Epic Sports and Entertainment, said the WBA has agreed to let the veteran make a voluntary defence.

“The Pulev vs Gassiev fight is signed, sealed, and confirmed – so [Moses] Itauma will have to wait his turn,” said Gotzev.

“We have an official WBA resolution authorising Kubrat Pulev’s first title defence to be a voluntary, and in line with that, we’ve locked in a terrific opponent in Murat Gassiev.”

That is not meant as a slight on the community Shelvey has left behind.

Though Shelvey has uprooted from the UK, the 33-year-old said the north east was “the only place there he would want to live”.

“There’s this debate about whether Newcastle are able to attract the big players compared to the Manchester clubs and the London clubs but, until you go there, you don’t understand what it does to you,” he said.

“There are loads of things to do. I don’t care what anyone says. If players are going to listen to this, it’s a no-brainer to go there and play football.

“You will not find love at a football club like I found at Newcastle, with how they take to their players and how much they back you.”

Shelvey spent longer at Newcastle than any other side – seven years in total following his move from Swansea City – and said he was “honoured” to have represented the club and worn the captain’s armband on occasion.

As well as sticking around following relegation, in 2016, and playing his part in taking Newcastle straight back up, Shelvey also helped ensure the club then stayed in the top flight.

He even scored what proved to be a “massive” goal against Leeds United as Newcastle started to pull away from danger three and a half years ago.

It ended up proving a turning point in head coach Eddie Howe’s reign.

“If I had not scored that, the club would have gone down!” he said. “I’m joking. Looking back at it, you don’t realise how big a goal it was and, to be fair, the keeper [Illan Meslier] chucked one in for us. I scuffed the life out of it.

“But I’ve only got good things to say about my time at Newcastle. I loved it. Even when I first got the call about going there, I drove 12 hours from Swansea because of the traffic. I just wanted to get up there, get my medical done and get signed.

“I had experienced playing against Newcastle at St James’ Park and you get a real buzz, but you never understand how big the club is until you are there.”

Jamal Robinson, who achieved his dream of retirement in 2024 and pays himself a whopping £138,000 a year, has revealed what he forks out to live in a “premium” area of Dubai “right off the beach”

A young retiree who pays himself a staggering £138,000 a year has revealed what he forks out to live in a “premium” area of Dubai “right off the beach”.

Jamal Robinson, who decided that he wanted to retire early when he was just a teenager, went from working as a church janitor to a position at Taco Bell for minimum wage, but would ultimately secure roles at Microsoft, IBM, and Amazon.

Jamal, who at the time of speaking was 40, achieved his dream of retirement in 2024. He’s now living as a US expat in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, and has managed to save a cash pot worth nearly $4million (about £3m).

A former executive director of generative AI at Microsoft, Jamal accumulated millions in savings and investments and pays himself a staggering figure of about £11,500 every month.

Jamal told CNBC Make It: “What I love most about Dubai is it really caters to people that have been retired and are looking for a lot of services and activities.”

He continued: “I found that, most often, the things that were promised to me in America actually existed here. So, the levels of safety, the levels of like integration of people into society where everyone’s accepted.”

Jamal revealed that he pays himself roughly $15,400 per month (about £11,500), but he tends to spend around $9,000 (£6,700), usually allowing himself around $2,000 for food (£1,500).

A chart displayed Jamal’s spending for December 2024 (which he conceded was a “unique” month). Among his outgoings were $4,429 (about £3,300) for rent, $2,840 ($2,100) for health and wellness, and a discretionary fund of $1,549 (£1,160).

He claimed that Dubai is “actually much cheaper” for him than the majority of the major US cities in which he’s lived. Jamal added that the UAE city allows people to live the “kind of lifestyle” they want and accommodates “a lot” of price points.

A city synonymous with luxury, Dubai is also a popular holiday destination and global hub for leisure and business. Home to more than 200 nationalities, it also boasts the tallest building in the world, the 828-metre Burj Khalifa.

In addition, curious visitors can take advantage of its luxurious malls and traditional souks, and, in further evidence of its wealth, you may even spot the police driving supercars.

According to the Telegraph, it’s expensive to live in Dubai, and expats will have to pay for medical insurance. Despite this, there’s no income tax imposed on people, meaning you keep more of the cash you earn.

It reports that, as of June 2024 (according to figures by CBRE), average yearly rents for apartments and villas were AED 56,000 (about £11,265) and AED 166,000 (£33,393). It also stated that the average salary of someone living in Dubai was £54,647.

The Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) in Warsaw, Poland, is a $32.5 billion project that aims to link the entire continent in unprecedented ways – but will it rival the likes of Dubai?

A swanky new airport could be landing in Europe, set to give London’s Heathrow and even the esteemed Dubai International a run for their money as it aims to connect the entire continent in ways never seen before.

The Centralny Port Komunikacyjny, a proposed $32.5 billion project, is a fresh aviation gateway in Warsaw that carries the weight of Poland’s ambitious mega airport dreams. However, the idea is rapidly advancing, with the official approval and handover of the passenger terminal design marking a significant step forward.

This indicates the massive airport is officially moving into its next phase of development. The question remains, will this new progression challenge the dominance of the Middle East, home to both the world’s largest airport, King Fahd International Airport in Saudi Arabia, and the busiest, Dubai International Airport?

While it still trails behind the world’s largest airport, CPK’s predicted passenger capacity makes it a strong contender as the new hub for Europe. In contrast, Dubai is on track to handle 100 million passengers by the end of next year, thanks to its strategic geographical position with other continents, while the Polish project will eventually accommodate up to 44 million.

Even the busiest airports in Europe can’t compete with Dubai, which saw its top airport process a staggering 40 million people in the first half of 2025. Despite significant growth, mega hubs like Milan Malpensa and Athens still can’t match the sheer volume of passengers that Dubai is handling, reports the Express.

Construction of CPK is due to kick off in 2026, with an ambitious plan to integrate both air and high-speed rail travel. The design aims to revolutionise connectivity across the continent, covering a whopping 450,000 square metres.

The major plans include around 140 check-in desks with the capacity to expand to up to 170, as passenger demand increases, according to Gulf News.

As for the aircraft, the terminal will feature over 20 dedicated contact stands for both narrow-body and wide-body planes, with plans for a phased expansion.

These ground-breaking plans, designed by Foster + Partners and Buro Happold, are three times the size of Warsaw Chopin Airport’s current terminal. But the impressive figures don’t stop there.

Their mega airport will initially be designed to handle up to 34 million passengers annually, with plans to increase to 44 million.

This ambitious multi-billion-pound project is set to include an underground railway station as part of the Warsawod High-Speed Rail Line. The rail system is slated for completion by 2029, while the airport is not anticipated to be fully operational until 2032.

Gulf News has reported that the initial estimates for the CPK project were a staggering $32.5 billion up to 2032; however, recent figures suggest this could soar to an eye-watering $34 billion in total. The mammoth airport is aiming to snatch a ‘meaningful share of Europe’s air traffic’ and transform into a multi-modal hub, but will it be worth its sky-high cost?

RONNIE O’SULLIVAN says he is loving his new life in Dubai – and loving the fact he now has a wife.

Snooker’s greatest ever player made two significant lifestyle changes this year and both of them have given him major contentment in his personal life.

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In June, the Rocket got married to long-term partner Laila Rouass, an actress and former Strictly Come Dancing contestant, in a low key ceremony in East London.

Few people knew about it until he announced the news on his Instagram page with a photo from the big day and the caption: “We finally made it official!! Mr & Mrs O’Sullivan.”

And then the couple packed up their belongings and moved to the UAE, which is an easier commute to events in China and his Saudi Arabia snooker academy.

On the benefits of heading to sunnier climes, O’Sullivan, 49, told SunSport: “It’s really good. I’ve got a great practice facility there, which was one of the main reasons for going.

“I was struggling to find somewhere to play. It was either get a train up to Sheffield or try to move to Sheffield.

“But my wife wasn’t too keen on Sheffield. So she said we either go Spain or Dubai.

“And I thought, well, Dubai is nearer China. Obviously it’s in the Middle East.

“All the tournaments that I play and all the work that I do is there. It just made sense to go to Dubai.

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“Really enjoying it out there. Great gyms. I’m enjoying that side of it.

“I had some friends over there before that played snooker and they’ve helped me get into Dubai life.

“I’ve met some really nice friends and fitted in really well. So yeah, it’s great.

“I’m not a sunbather, but I’d much rather the heat than cold, if that makes sense. Spring and autumn are my favourite times.”

Like most newly-married men, using the word ‘wife’ instead of girlfriend or fiancée in conversation has taken some getting used to.

O’Sullivan – who has three children from previous relationships – said: “Everyone just knows where they are a bit more.

“It probably feels a bit more mature, I suppose. It does take a while.

“At first I was like, oh, to say that word (wife), but now it feels pretty normal. It’s nice. Everything’s good. Everyone’s happy, which is the main thing.”

O’Sullivan has pulled out of three consecutive tournaments on medical grounds but his next appearance on the baize will be at the Xi’an Grand Prix, which starts on October 7.

In the meantime, he has thrown his support behind the launch of Pluto Snooker 900, the world’s first 24/7 dedicated snooker channel, which will stream free and on demand on Pluto TV.

The Snooker 900 format consists of 900 seconds (15 minutes) on the table, a 20-second shot clock, ball in hand for fouls and a sudden-death blue-ball deadlock shootout to settle ties.

The channel – which will initially broadcast 18 hours a week of live snooker from Monday to Wednesday – launches on Monday (October 6) with a Legends Week.

This will star golden oldies Jimmy White, Ken Doherty, John Parrott, Tony Drago, Joe Johnson and Tony Knowles.

Over the next 12 months, there is more than £600,000 in prize money pledged for amateur players.

And episodes of O’Sullivan’s acclaimed coaching series, The Rocket Method, will also be screened.

O’Sullivan, the seven-time world champion, said: “I remember filming the masterclass and after day three, having been on my feet for 12-13 hours a day, I couldn’t even walk.

“That was probably the hardest work we’ve ever done because we really had to crash it out.

“You’ll see every bit of advice from beginner to the real advanced stuff.

“I put it all on the table there. It’ll be great for any snooker or pool player or any cue sports player that wants to improve their game. I’ve really gone into big detail.

“Hopefully this new channel launches some snooker ambition in young players. It’s going to be like a bit of talent spotting.

“The 900 format, which sharpens the mind, is going to give people a chance to feel what it’s like to play on TV. Feel what the pressure and that nerve is like.”

A BRITISH grandad and veteran suffering from cancer has been left homeless and starving in Dubai after being arrested for a crime he’d been acquitted of a decade earlier.

John Murphy, who served in the British military before building a life in the UAE, was arrested a decade earlier over allegations of being offensive to hotel security.

The 59-year-old’s lawyers said he should have walked free but he was jailed awaiting trial.

In the interim period, John’s landlord sued him for rent arrears that piled up during his detention.

His belongings were seized, a travel ban imposed, and his passport withheld.

The travel ban imposed on him has also never been lifted.

For nearly 10 years he has been trapped in Dubai, unable to work and unable to leave, putting John in an ‘inescapable legal limbo’.

John’s lawyers now say he has been ‘literally starving’.

The grandfather has been forced to sleep on public transport and wash in shopping centre toilets, according to his legal contacts.

“I haven’t eaten in four days,” Murphy said in a message sent from Dubai.

“I’ve been on the streets for three weeks.

“I try to ride the metro all day to rest, but security chase me away.

“I wash in mall toilets, I’ve been in the same clothes for weeks, and my health is failing.

“I need urgent cancer treatment and dental care, but I have nowhere to turn.”

Despite homelessness being illegal in the UAE, when John attempted to surrender to the police, they refused to arrest him.

He has been surviving on public transport, caught between a rock and a hard place – unable to leave, unable to work, unable to resolve his debts.

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Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai said John’s situation was “outrageous”.

“John was found innocent, yet ten years later he is starving on the streets, denied cancer treatment, food, or shelter,” she said.

“This is the direct result of a system that criminalises debt and traps people in a cycle of poverty and despair.

“They won’t let him leave, and they won’t even arrest him. He is being left to die in plain sight.”

A friend of John’s has launched a GoFundMe page and appealed directly to both the British and Irish embassies for help.

To date, neither has secured his release.

“The Trump administration successfully repatriated a number of American citizens from the UAE,” Stirling added.

“It is disappointing that Britain and Ireland have not stepped in to save John Murphy.

“He is a veteran, a grandfather, and he has already suffered enough.

“The Irish and British governments must act now.”

John’s quagmire comes after British student Mia O’Brien was detained in the city after being busted with 50g of cocaine.

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Mia was sentenced to spend 25 years in a UAE prison after she was found with the drugs that had a street value of £2500.

Her family this week issued a plea for help saying she had “never done a bad thing in her life” and had made a “very stupid mistake”.

But now her heartbroken mum Danielle McKenna, 46, has revealed new details about her lengthy jail term.

She revealed that Mia, 23, was caught with 50 grams of the Class A drug in the Middle East last October.

The huge amount of cocaine was found inside Mia’s apartment in “one big chunk”.

The Liverpool University law student was arrested alongside two other people – her friend and the friend’s boyfriend.

All three have been charged with drug dealing.

Mia was convicted by a judge after a one day hearing on July 25.

She was also fined a staggering £100,000 by the court before being sent to the hellish Dubai Central Prison, also known as Al-Awir.

The notorious lock-up has been dubbed the affluent city’s version of infamous jail Alcatraz.

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“Mia feels she has destroyed her life as she wanted to be a lawyer or solicitor, ” Danielle told the Daily Mail.

“I speak to her but she can’t say too much on the phone.

“She’s just made a stupid mistake after going over to see a friend and her boyfriend in Dubai.”

The mother-of-five said Mia pleaded not guilty to intent to supply the drugs.

But the judge swiftly ended the trial and handed her a life sentence of which she has to serve 25 years.

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Personal trainer Elbi Henshaw, 23, decided to move to Dubai with financial help from her parents after she began to find the United Kingdom “depressing”, but was in for a nasty surprise

A personal trainer, fed up with the “miserable” UK lifestyle, relocated to Dubai only to find herself working six days a week to afford life in the UAE city.

Elbi Henshaw, 23, made the move in January after holidaying there and realising how “depressing” her life was back in the UK.

Having previously worked in Saudi Arabia, Elbi, from Barnet, North London, she decided to give Dubai a try. With financial assistance from her parents, she secured full-time work at a gym.

Despite being settled and thriving in Dubai – a hotspot for British influencers due to its beautiful weather, stunning views and luxury nightlife – she admits missing UK pubs and pub culture eight months into her move.

Living in Dubai comes with its own challenges, including the high cost of living, with yoghurt costing £12 and coffee starting from £7. Elbi describes it as a “dog eat dog” lifestyle where people work six-day weeks and take on extra work to make ends meet, reports the Manchester Evening News.

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While Elbi now loves her location, she admits she “didn’t like it at first” as it can feel “lonely” trying to establish a social circle in such a high-intensity environment.

Reflecting on her decision, Elbi said: “In the UK, I was so depressed and miserable and everyone is so sedentary – I wanted a more active lifestyle. Out here, everyone is happier and active and they all want to be the best versions of themselves.

“I work full time but it’s hard not to just spend all your money – you’d need about £5k a month here to live comfortably. But you can pick up extra work quite quickly – at the moment I work six days but I’ll probably end up working seven. Paying no tax is a perk but the cost of living out here is so expensive that it ends up the same as in the UK. But here, you get the sun and a much better lifestyle – although I miss the pubs.”

Elbi relocated to Dubai in January – initially residing in a studio flat before moving into shared accommodation with two other young women. After joining a local running club, she struck up a conversation with someone who put her in touch with a gym manager and landed her first Dubai role as a personal trainer.

She was instantly bowled over by the sheer amount the city had to offer – from fine dining at upmarket restaurants to browsing the renowned Dubai Mall. Given she was making the move solo, Elbi admitted the initial months proved challenging whilst getting established and sorting out the necessary paperwork and banking arrangements.

She quickly recognised the “fast paced and non-stop lifestyle” – with residents frequently clocking up lengthy working weeks to afford living in the glamorous destination beloved by A-listers.

Elbi explained: “The rent is more expensive than the UK and you have to pay big deposits on things like apartments and cars. Clothing is more expensive too – and coffee is like £7 minimum, sometimes as much as £10 a cup. I’d say the average salary for a normal person here is like £3,000 a month but you want more like £5,000 to live comfortably if you want to go out for meals, and buy new clothes.

“I try to work, work, work so that I can enjoy Dubai – there’s lots of group chats and apps for companies to advertise weekend work.” However, she revealed it doesn’t amount to significantly more in total than life in the UK – where you pay taxes – apart from Dubai’s incredible views and climate.

Eight months on, she’s absolutely adoring her new life there, grafting as a personal trainer at an upmarket gym frequented by “high end clients”. Now she’s established friendships and has no immediate intentions to head back.

She explained: “You have to put your ego aside and put yourself out there – I messaged other women out of the blue inviting them for coffee.”

Elbi revealed she adores Dubai’s pristine condition – as “everywhere is spotless” and “it makes you realise how dirty the UK is.” During her downtime from work, Elbi enjoys strolling around the air-conditioned shopping centre and visiting Dubai’s incredibly luxurious cinemas.

She fills her leisure time at the pool – beach clubs including Summersalt, adored by celebrities like Molly-Mae Hague and Kady McDermott, plus Twiggy club, favoured by Paris Hilton.

Yet she admitted Dubai can be challenging as there’s less of a “sense of community” for young people – making romance difficult without relying on dating apps. She explained: “It’s so hard to meet guys, because there’s no authentic meet-ups.

“People don’t stand in the streets around pubs – you have to schedule it in. And it’s hard to date as everyone is so busy 24/7 that you never find the time. I do miss the sense of community and pubs in the UK.

“I love it but I can’t really imagine meeting someone out here and it becoming serious. People come out here who already have a partner or family, and the ones that are single are never looking for anything serious.

“I could see myself building a life here but if I get to 27 and I’m not in a relationship, I’ll move back to the UK as I want to start a family.”

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RICKY HATTON’s next opponent has broken his silence following the tragic death of the British boxer.

The former world champion was found dead aged 46 in his Manchester home on Sunday.

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Eisa Al Dah, 46, was due to be the next person to face the Hitman in the ring in Dubai on December 2.

He has now broken his silence following the news of Hatton’s death.

He told The National: “In just a couple of hours, I was [going to see] him here in Dubai.

“We booked the hotel. We booked the [plane] ticket. Everything had been arranged.

“From my side, I was checking everything, and I was so excited to see him over here and visit us here in Dubai.

“And he was also excited. But suddenly, I get this news from his managers. My heart is broken.

“Since knowing I will fight him, I became very close to him, seeing his news, following him on Instagram.

“I follow his life, how he trained, everything. I cannot believe it. I wish somebody told me this is wrong.

“I’ve been through many things in my life in the boxing or business.

“But this is something that I cannot believe.”

More to follow…

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A sleepy UK seaside town has been nicknamed ‘Devon’s Dubai’ after experiencing a major property boom, with many flocking to the picturesque location for a change of pace

A quaint seaside town, often referred to as ‘Devon’s Dubai’, has seen a significant property boom, earning it its new nickname.

Salcombe, also known as Chelsea-on-Sea, surged in popularity during the Covid pandemic when remote working became the new normal and people opted to ditch the busyness of the city for a slower pace of life near the British coast.

Blair Stewart from Strutt and Parker revealed that at one point, he was selling properties for an astonishing £2,000 per square foot in Salcombe – a price comparable to that in Knightsbridge, London.

“When Covid hit, it turned everything on its head. It was a feeding frenzy. I was doing 50% of my sales before the property ever hit the market. It was a surge, a massive influx of new buyers and it became like a gold rush. Everybody was trying to bail out of London and they came down here on holiday and woke up to how beautiful it is,” he told the Daily Mail.

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“The market was already really strong for second homes and we saw a 25% price jump in 2020. We had well-known people coming down by helicopter. I’d pick them up and drive them around to view places and nobody ever spotted them walking along the street.

“I don’t know anywhere else in the UK that experienced a situation like this, the nearest thing I can compare it to is the property buzz in Dubai when I worked there.”

In 2023 and 2024, Salcombe took the title of the most expensive seaside town in the UK, even surpassing the renowned Sandbanks in Dorset, reports the Express.

In 2022, the average house price in the area was roughly £1.2 million. However, over the last year, this figure has dropped to £816,303.

Detached properties sold for an average of £923,115 and flats for £853,147, according to data from Rightmove.

This represents a significant decrease of 18% from the previous year and 35% from the peak in 2022.

Charlie Heath, associate director at Marchant Pettit based in Salcombe, commented: “We had an extraordinary uplift in prices from 2020 to 2023, the equivalent normally would’ve been spread out over five to six years.”

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A YouTuber who is originally from the UK moved to Dubai for two years to “avoid paying tax” – but he returned home saying there were “more cons than pros” to living in the city

A British YouTuber who relocated to Dubai has packed up and returned to the UK after two years, citing one significant issue with life in the Gulf state.

YouTuber Charlie Morgan initially moved to Dubai to “avoid paying tax”, but returned home to Britain earlier this year after concluding there were “more cons than pros” to living in the city.

Whilst acknowledging that most people view Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, as “this big shiny utopia”, Charlie highlighted one of the major drawbacks of the Middle Eastern destination.

He revealed that “the real primary reason” he decided to abandon his Dubai lifestyle. He said: “It’s impossible to emotionally unpack.”

He continued: “Living in Dubai feels like you’re on holiday or in an Airbnb because in order for you to have a healthy life, you need to have people that you love and you need to have a social life and you need to have a love life, a family life.”

Charlie identified one crucial weakness of the city: “The issue with Dubai is everyone plans to leave. It’s a revolving door of a city which means that people come and people leave. And 90%, 95% of the people that I knew in Dubai did not plan on staying there for the long term.”

While Charlie highlighted one specific disadvantage of living in the sun-drenched climate of Dubai, there are also numerous other considerations that British expats recommend weighing up when relocating to the Middle Eastern nation. The first thing Brits will notice when they step foot in Dubai is the drastic change in temperature.

In the scorching months of July and August, it’s not unusual for temperatures to rocket past 40C, while during the cooler months of November and December, it can still linger around the mid-20s.

Despite significant differences in climate, taxation, and culture between Dubai and the UK, the UAE city has become an increasingly appealing option for Brits seeking a new life abroad.

Recent estimates show a massive surge in the number of UK nationals moving to Dubai in recent years.

In 2021, it’s estimated that 30,000 Brits packed their bags for Dubai, with that figure rising to 35,000 a year later, and hitting 40,000 in 2023. It’s thought that a whopping 240,000 Brits now call the UAE city home.

The United Arab Emirates has quickly become a favourite holiday spot for UK travellers, and it’s not hard to understand the appeal

The United Arab Emirates has swiftly emerged as a top holiday destination for British tourists, and it’s easy to see why. Boasting diverse landscapes from deserts and oases to mountains and valleys, the UAE caters to all kinds of holidaymakers, whilst showcasing year-round luxury living.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi shine as the crown jewels of the UAE’s premium travel scene. However, merely an hour’s journey from Dubai sits a hidden paradise that guests have dubbed the nation’s best-kept secret.

Harry Leach ventured to Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), the UAE’s most northern emirate, last November seeking thrills – and discovered them in abundance, reports Bristol Live.

Upon his arrival, Harry watched daredevils racing along the planet’s most extensive zipline, Jais Flight, hitting jaw-dropping speeds of up to 100mph across the 1.75-mile track.

He captured the moment: “Ahead of me, adrenaline junkies shoot across the world’s longest zipline, Jais Flight, reaching hair-raising speeds of up to 100mph on the 1.75-mile journey,” before noting, “Suspended in Superman positions, 4,869ft above sea level, I can just make out their gleeful shrieks as they reach safety after a three-minute dopamine hit.

“To my right is the Jais Sledder: a 1.14-mile mountainside toboggan on a low-slung track. It’s certainly not for the faint-hearted, and I’d argue far more exhilarating than any rollercoaster at Alton Towers.”

Harry summed up his experience: “This is Ras Al Khaimah, only a short 45-minute drive away from Dubai airport. It’s a thrillseekers’ dream destination while also a relaxing desert paradise.”

Harry enjoyed a lavish break at the five-star Mövenpick Resort, positioned on Al Marjan Island’s stunning coral-shaped isles, encircled by the Persian Gulf’s glistening azure waters.

“When I arrived in late November, temperatures were still reaching 30C and above, despite being on the cusp of winter,” he explained.

His trip was made even more pleasant thanks to an ocean breeze which helped make the intense sunshine more bearable – a crucial element for someone who must slather on factor 50 throughout the British summer.

The resort catered to a diverse crowd, from older tourists and youngsters to families seeking retreat, solo travellers in search of tranquillity, adrenaline junkies, and those content with lounging on deck chairs.

Harry found an array of activities at his disposal, including relaxing in the spa, immersing himself in an online gaming cave, trying out arcade games, watching over kids in the play centre, and enjoying frequent live shows.

After a strenuous gym session, Harry treated himself to what he described as the ultimate post-workout reward: “I followed up a tough gym session by treating myself to the best post-workout meal available: Mövenpick’s ‘chocolate hour’ – 60 minutes of complimentary eclairs, truffles and choccy fondue. It’s pure indulgence.”

Despite the number of options to keep him occupied, he felt that “There’s a lot going on, a lot to see, a lot to do, but it never feels overwhelming.”

“It goes without saying that Mövenpick, a well-established Swiss hotel management brand in Europe, has exceptional dining options – with four first-rate restaurants on site, all focusing on sustainability and fresh food, each with their unique style, character and draw.”

The Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island’s culinary heart is The Market, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which has been hailed as the hotel’s vibrant hub by visitor Harry.

Sharing his experience, Harry highlighted the dedication to genuine dining: “It’s about creating meals from the heart,” a philosophy echoed by Chef Rajiv Ranjan Singh during a masterclass in preparing Switzerland’s cherished rösti.

The resort isn’t only renowned for its cuisine but also for its lavish Neo Sky Bar. Additionally, it provides views of the round-the-clock building site for the UAE’s first casino, expected to welcome guests in 2027.

This £3 billion project is set to boost visitor numbers to Al Marjan Island, a destination still establishing itself as a holiday hotspot, particularly amongst Western travellers despite its relatively young 12-year existence.

Looking back on his stay, Harry said: “I wasn’t sure what to expect when I arrived here. But after five days, I left feeling revitalised and refreshed. The warmth and friendliness of locals and the tranquillity of the island made it a tough goodbye on the final morning.”

He added: “Dubai gets most of the attention, and grabs the headlines, and perhaps that will always be the case.

“But I’m fine with that because Al Marjan Island is currently the country’s best-kept secret.”

French Montana is reportedly engaged to Mahra Maktoum — full name with title, Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum — and the couple has apparently managed to keep the romance news off the radar for even longer than Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift did.

The couple got engaged in June during Paris Fashion Week, TMZ said Wednesday, citing a publicist for the rapper. They didn’t even go public as a couple until this summer in Paris. He’s 40 and walked the runway very slowly in the 3.Paradis spring/summer 2026 show; she’s 31 and the daughter of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, prime minister of the United Arab Emirates and ruler of Dubai.

People reported that there’s little to report at this point, quoting a news release that stated, “Representatives confirm that while wedding plans are underway, specific dates and arrangements are still being finalized by both families, who are reportedly excited and supportive.”

Montana, who was born Karim Kharbouch and raised in Morocco until his family moved to the United States when he was a tween, previously dated reality TV royalty: He and Khloé Kardashian connected in 2014, dated for a bit, then split up and have remained friends over the years.

This will be a second marriage for both parties. Maktoum and her first husband, UAE businessman Sheikh Mana bin Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mana Al Maktoum, split in 2024 and have a young daughter together.

Montana and his first wife, entrepreneur Nadeen Palmer, a.k.a. Deen Kharbouch, had a son together in 2010 and separated in 2012 after five years as husband and wife; their divorce was finalized by a court in 2014.

Elbi Henshaw, 23, decided to move from London to Dubai after visiting the UAE city for a holiday and falling in love with the lifestyle

A Brit who was fed up with the “miserable” and “sedentary” life in the UK decided to move to Dubai, despite having to work six days a week to afford the “luxurious” lifestyle where a glass of wine costs a minimum of £20. Elbi Henshaw, 23, relocated to Dubai in January after holidaying there and realising how “miserable” life is in the UK.

Having previously worked in Saudi Arabia, she decided to give the famously opulent city in the UAE a go, seeking a change in lifestyle. The personal trainer, originally from Barnet, North London, moved to Dubai with financial assistance from her parents and secured full-time employment at a gym.

Eight months later, she’s settled and thriving in the city, which is a magnet for British influencers due to its beautiful weather, stunning views and luxury nightlife. However, she admits to missing UK pubs and pub culture.

Elbi revealed that it’s not all fun and games as everything is so pricey – with yoghurt costing £12 and coffee starting from £7 – that it becomes a “dog-eat-dog” lifestyle with people working six-day weeks and taking on extra work to make ends meet. Elbi is now fond of her location, but confesses she “didn’t like it at first” because it can feel “lonely” trying to establish a circle of friends in such a high-pressure environment.

Elbi stated: “In the UK, I was so depressed and miserable and everyone is so sedentary – I wanted a more active lifestyle. Out here, everyone is happier and active and they all want to be the best versions of themselves.

“I work full time, but it’s hard not to just spend all your money – you’d need about £5,000 a month here to live comfortably. But you can pick up extra work quite quickly – at the moment I work six days, but I’ll probably end up working seven.

“Paying no tax is a perk, but the cost of living out here is so expensive that it ends up the same as in the UK. But here, you get the sun and a much better lifestyle – although I miss the pubs.”

Elbi relocated to Dubai in January – initially residing in a studio flat before moving into shared accommodation with two other young women. After joining a local running club, she struck up a conversation with someone who put her in touch with a gym manager and landed her first Dubai role as a personal trainer.

She was instantly struck by the sheer amount of activities and attractions the city had to offer – from fine dining at upmarket restaurants to browsing the renowned Dubai Mall. Since she was relocating solo, Elbi admitted the initial months proved challenging whilst getting established and sorting out the necessary paperwork and banking arrangements. She quickly recognised the “fast-paced and non-stop lifestyle”, with residents frequently clocking up lengthy working weeks to fund life in the glamorous destination beloved by A-listers.

Elbi explained: “The rent is more expensive than the UK and you have to pay big deposits on things like apartments and cars. Clothing is more expensive too – and coffee is like £7 minimum, sometimes as much as £10 a cup.

“I’d say the average salary for a normal person here is like £3,000 a month, but you want more like £5,000 to live comfortably if you want to go out for meals and buy new clothes. I try to work, work, work so that I can enjoy Dubai – there are lots of group chats and apps for companies to advertise weekend work.”

However, she revealed it doesn’t amount to significantly more than life in Britain – where you’re liable for taxes – apart from Dubai’s breathtaking scenery and climate. Eight months on, she’s absolutely adoring her existence there, grafting as a personal trainer at an upmarket gymnasium frequented by “high-end clients”. She’s built friendships and has no immediate intentions of returning home.

She explained: “You have to put your ego aside and put yourself out there – I messaged other women out of the blue, inviting them for coffee.”

Elbi expressed her admiration for Dubai’s pristine conditions – as “everywhere is spotless” and “it makes you realise how dirty the UK is”. During her downtime, Elbi enjoys strolling through the air-conditioned shopping centres and visiting Dubai’s incredibly lavish cinemas.

She fills her leisure hours at the swimming pool – exclusive beach clubs like Summersalt, adored by celebrities including Molly-Mae Hague and Kady McDermott, plus Twiggy club, favoured by Paris Hilton.

Nevertheless, she acknowledged Dubai can be challenging as there’s reduced “sense of community” for young people, making romance difficult without relying on dating applications.

She said: “It’s so hard to meet guys, because there are no authentic meet-ups. People don’t stand in the streets around pubs – you have to schedule it in.

“And it’s hard to date as everyone is so busy 24/7 that you never find the time. I do miss the sense of community and pubs in the UK.

“I love it, but I can’t really imagine meeting someone out here and it becoming serious. People come out here who already have a partner or family, and the ones who are single are never looking for anything serious. I could see myself building a life here, but if I get to 27 and I’m not in a relationship, I’ll move back to the UK as I want to start a family.”

Costs in Dubai

Cappuccino 34dh – £6.86

Mince meat 25dh – £5

Strawberries 30/40dh – £6-£8

Fage yoghurt 1L 60dh – £12

Cheapest thing in Zara 130/150dh – £26/30

Glass of wine when out minimum 99dh – £20

Mexican actor Manuel Masalva is on the road to recovery after contracting an aggressive bacterial infection in March that left him in a medically induced coma for weeks.

In his first social media post since the onset of his illness, the “Narcos: Mexico” actor updated his followers on his current health status via Instagram on Monday evening.

“I am healing. I want to profoundly thank you all for the support you have given me and continue to give me, in every sense, every one of you,” Masalva wrote. “This [process] has barely begun, there is much more left to go, but I feel blessed, strong, reborn and well-accompanied. … God has given me a new life.”

Masalva first felt the onset of an ailment when he arrived in Dubai in March, following a trip to the Philippines, revealing that he ended up spending 105 days in the Dubai hospital that first treated him for his prolonged illness.

The actor first arrived in the Middle East city on March 18, his manager Jaime Jaramillo Espinosa told The Times in April.

“[After] about two days in Dubai, Masalva began to feel internal discomfort and pain which increased by the day,” Jaramillo Espinosa said.

On March 26, Masalva underwent emergency surgery after doctors discovered the bacterial infection, which prevented him from traveling back to his home in Mexico. The following day, the infection reached his lungs and he had to be put into a medically induced coma.

Masalva thanked the Dubai hospital staff for their work and for the distinct culture that “overflowed with love and spirituality.”

“I don’t know if I really understand all of what’s going on or just a part of it, it’s been an eternity and there are still some parts missing, I just want to the strongest thanks that I can give to God, my family, my doctors and all those people that have supported me since the start of this process. I owe you all my life,” he wrote.

Masalva played the role of Ramón Arellano Félix in the Netflix drama series “Narcos: Mexico,” alongside Diego Luna, Bad Bunny and Scoot McNairy. He has also been featured on the telenovela “La Rosa de Guadalupe” and recently in the series “La Guzmán.”

A FLASHY crime lord was snared for a murder plot and major cocaine smuggling racket by his clothes and tattoos featured in selfies he posted from Dubai.

Drug baron James Harding, 34, masterminded a drug empire which made £5 million in profits during a 10-week period.

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But the vain villain took selfies of himself posing shirtless in front of the mirror flexing his muscles and sitting in supercars while living a life of luxury in the desert kingdom.

Harding sent the photos and messages about his opulent lifestyle to criminal cronies on the EncroChat encrypted mobile phone system believing it was totally secure.

But the swaggering poser’s boasts rebounded on him when the communication network was infiltrated by cyber cops in 2020.

Messages uncovered Harding’s cocaine empire – and his plan to rob and kill a rival drug courier.

Harding was yesterday convicted at the Old Bailey of conspiracy to supply class A drugs and of conspiracy to murder following a heavily-guarded eight-week trial.

His right hand man Jayes Kharouti, 39, earlier admitted the same drug offence and was also found guilty of the murder plot.

Jurors heard how Harding used the EncroChat handle ‘thetopsking,’ while Kharouti went under the tags ‘besttops’ and ‘topsybricks.’

They sent 9,136 messages to each other via EncroChat between March and June 2020, detailing their vast shipments of cocaine from the Netherlands into the UK, where it was distributed across the country.

The pair spelled out how they were laundering their money – as every message was read by Scotland Yard detectives following the penetration of the EncroChat platform by French law enforcement.

Harding, originally from Alton, Hampshire, and his lieutenant Kharouti were making £70,000 every day during the period their phones were being hacked by cops, jurors heard.

Prosecutor Duncan Atkinson, KC, said the pair were responsible for “approximately 50 importations of cocaine into the UK with a total weight of approximately 1,000 kilograms.”

He went on: “The messages also show that once the cocaine was in the UK, it was broken into smaller parcels, of between 5kg and 10kg, and distributed across the UK to wholesale purchasers, who would then sell to end users.

“An analysis of the messages that discuss money and financial gain suggests that the conspirators made £60-70,000 per importation, and about £5m in profit overall in just 10 weeks.”

The messages also revealed how Harding and Kharouti tried to hire a hitman for £100,000 to rob and kill a drug mule.

They arranged a gun and ammunition for a hitman to carry out the “full M” – murder, jurors heard.

Cops moved in and arrested the alleged hitman before the contract murder could be carried out.

Harding claimed in court he was not the EncroChat user known as ‘thetopsking’ – and claimed the handle belonged to a mystery gay lover he identified in court only as ‘TK.’

But cops were able to prove Harding was the ‘thetopsking’  because of his love for selfies and boasts about his luxury lifestyle.

A phone seized from an associate had a video showing Harding in the driver’s seat of a £2.5 million Bugatti Chiron car with a tattoo on his leg clearly visible.

There were pictures of him living it up in his lavish villa at The Nest development in Dubai, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, a swimming pool and rooms for maids and drivers.

Harding lived there with Liverpudlian girlfriend Charli Wylde, 33, and her daughter Milly-Mai, 15, who he treated as his own.

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The court heard that on May 6, 2020, EncroChat user ‘thetopsking’ boasted to pals how he was taking his “Mrs” out that evening to Zuma, an award-winning Japanese restaurant in Dubai.

Investigations found that two days earlier Harding made the booking from a personal email account.

And eight days later ‘thetopsking’  boasted in messages how he was staying at the five-star Waldorf hotel in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, and sent an image of the hotel pool area via EncroChat.

Mr Atkinson said: “Enquiries with the Hilton Hotel Group showed that Harding stayed at the Waldorf Astoria in the United Arab Emirates and gave (his) mobile telephone number and produced a UAE identification card.

“During the stay, thetopsking had sent an image of James Harding relaxing on a sun lounger at, of all places, the Waldorf.”

One March 26 2020, thetopsking also wrote a message about how he had got back a Lamborghini Urus and sent an image of the dashboard.

Mr Atkinson said: “The person who took the image caught their leg in the photograph, and on that leg is a tattoo which matches the tattoo on James Harding’s leg.”

Kharouti’s home in Epsom, Surrey, was searched in 2020 after he was linked to the messages.

Police found a handset with the same number he gave to Harding.

He fled the country before being found in Turkey and extradited back to the UK.

Harding was arrested on 27 December 2021 at Geneva Airport, Switzerland, and from there Switzerland to the UK the following May.

The pair will be sentenced on Thursday.

Met Detective Chief Inspector Jim Casey,  said: “This conviction sends a clear message – no matter how sophisticated the methods, criminals cannot hide behind encrypted software.

“This operation dismantled a major supply chain and is a testament to the relentless work of our officers.

“We monitored their drug-dealing activity but then we saw the group discussing the contract killing of a rival.

“We moved fast to protect those in danger.”

“Harding and Kharouti planned to kill, we stopped that and put them before the courts.”

Harding was previously jailed for nine years when he was aged 21 for running a drug racket.

Previously, Calvin Crump, 29, of Redhill, Surrey, was jailed for 13 years and six months while Khuram Ahmed, 38, of Slough, Berkshire, got 15-and-half-years after admitting conspiracy to smuggle cocaine.

Peter Thompson, 61, of South-West London, received 21 years after he  pleaded guilty to the  same drug charge and  possessing a pistol.

A man alleged to have been the gang’s proposed hitman was cleared.

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This small seaside hospot is perfect for those who want to jet away but keep the costs down – and it’s based right on the picturesque coast, perfect for catching some sunrays

If you are dreaming of a summer holiday but don’t want to fork out thousands, this gorgeous European city might be your answer. With summer in full swing, you may be thinking about jetting off, and now this Turkish city has been labelled as a ‘Dubai dupe’.

With flights to Antalya for a five day trip costing around £640, it’s much more convenient than the same trip to Dubai costing a huge £896. The sunny spot is located on Turkey’s picturesque Turquoise Coast, and is the largest city on Turkey’s western Mediterranean coastline, which is both classically beautiful and stylishly modern.

Spanning across West Asia and Southeast Europe, Turkey (Türkiye) boasts a balmy climate, sugar-like sand, cobalt waters, and acclaimed water parks – making it a great seaside resort for tourists.

READ MORE: Brits ditch Spain and Portugal for scorching countries with cheaper breaks

Travel site Lonely Plant said Antalya is “very much a destination in it’s own right and said: “The old city wraps around a splendid Roman-era harbour with clifftop views of hazy-blue mountain silhouettes that are worth raising a toast to. Just outside of the central city are two beaches and one of Turkey’s finest museums.”

One of the most popular and best-rated attractions on Tripadvisor is Kaleci, its seafront historic district that dates back to the Roman era. Lonely Planet said it “offers atmospheric accommodation in the finely restored Ottoman houses on its winding lanes.” And within its windy streets, visitors will come across Hadrian’s Gate, the city’s clock tower and the Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Cami, an Ottoman-era mosque.

But aside from the attractions, what makes Antalya so special are the beautiful beaches, and tourists can explore the best of the Turquoise Coast’s spectacular views.

Konyaalti Beach is the region’s best-rated on Tripadvisor, where holidamakes can enjoy crystal-clear water and gorgeous views of the mountains. Whle another popular area on the Turquoise Coast is Lara Beach, which is renowned for its golden sand and stretches for 8km long.

It’s an easy destination to get to, with Jet2, British Airways, easyJet, Pegasus and TUI all offering direct flights from the UK to Antalya and the duration is around four and a half hours long. If you’re a true savvy bargain hunter you can get the flights for anywhere between £70-£90.

There is also another spot in Turkey that is quickly becoming a bucket list hotspot four tourists. Goreme, a small town with just over 2,000 residents, is located in the Cappadocia region of central Turkey. It’s close to other notable cities like Nevsehir, Urgup, and Avanos. Despite its modest population, Goreme attracts over a million visitors annually, making it a popular destination for those seeking something different.

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CHOCOLATE fans are dashing to Aldi as the budget supermarket unveils a £3.99 version of the viral ‘Dubai-style’ chocolate bar.

Now available in Aldi stores across the UK, the 100g bar promises a rich and indulgent experience—without the luxury price tag.

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The treat features creamy pistachio layers and crunchy kadayif pastry, all wrapped in silky milk chocolate. Inspired by a viral hit that exploded on social media, the chocolate has already caused a stir online.

AldiUK teased the launch on Facebook, writing: “THIS IS NOT A DRILL. The Dubai Style Chocolate Bar lands in store tomorrow! Will you be picking one up.”

Fans flooded the comments with excitement. One wrote: “More temptation.”

Another added: “You knocked it out of the park with this. Absolutely amazing.”

A third asked: “Hey dear Aldi, are these a special or permanent fixture? Xx”

The chocolate is part of Aldi’s Specialbuys range, meaning once it’s sold out, it may not return.

With no buying limit, shoppers are expected to stock up quickly.

This isn’t the first time retailers have tried to cash in on the Dubai chocolate craze.

Lidl’s JD Gross version flew off the shelves, and Waitrose offers a similar pistachio white chocolate bar for £2.75. Morrisons stocks its own version—Bolci Dubai Chocolate—for £5.

The trend shows no signs of slowing down, as chocolate lovers continue to seek out these premium-style treats at lower prices.

If you’re keen to try one, it’s worth getting to your local Aldi early to avoid disappointment.

As word spreads, demand is expected to spike.

To get the best deal, savvy shoppers are encouraged to compare prices using online tools like PriceSpy, Google Shopping, or Idealo.

These platforms let you check price histories and spot deals across retailers.

SAVE MONEY AT ALDI

Grabbing hot Specialbuys like this chocolate bar is just one way to save at Aldi.

The discount chain frequently tops Which? rankings for the cheapest supermarket, offering consistent value for everyday essentials.

In April, a typical basket of 79 items cost an average of £135.95 at Aldi—cheaper than rivals including Lidl and Tesco.

Bargain hunters should also keep an eye out for Aldi’s red sticker items, usually marked down in the morning.

These offer major discounts on products close to their sell-by date or with minor packaging damage.

Aldi’s budget-friendly alcohol selection is another way to save, with own-brand options often coming in much cheaper than big-name labels.

Don’t forget about Too Good To Go “Surprise Bags”, available in selected stores.

These offer a low-cost mix of near-date groceries that would otherwise go to waste.

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