A British citizen decided to relocate to Dubai due to dissatisfaction with the gloomy weather and increasing crime rates in the UK, similar to the choice made by Luisa Zissman. Luisa, a 38-year-old star of “The Apprentice,” recently announced her move to Dubai with her children and horses to escape the wet British climate.
Elbi Henshaw, a 23-year-old personal trainer from Barnet, North London, followed suit and moved to Dubai in January after a holiday there, citing the impact of UK weather on her mood and the safety concerns in the UK. She expressed her delight in the consistent sunny weather in Dubai and the sense of security she feels in the city.
Statistics from the Office for National Statistics indicate a general decrease in crime against individuals and households in the UK over the past decade. Elbi, who previously worked in Saudi Arabia, transitioned to Dubai in pursuit of a lifestyle change. She secured a job at a fitness center with financial assistance from her parents.
Despite the initial challenges, Elbi is now thriving in Dubai, a city known for its high temperatures and upscale nightlife. However, she acknowledges the steep living costs, such as £12 for yogurt and a minimum of £7 for coffee, leading residents to work long hours and take on extra jobs to make ends meet.
While enjoying the vibrant lifestyle in Dubai, Elbi highlighted the difficulty in forming friendships in the bustling city. She mentioned the absence of a sense of community for young people, making it challenging to meet potential partners outside of dating apps. Elbi appreciates the cleanliness of Dubai and indulges in activities like shopping, cinema outings, and beach club visits in her leisure time.
Despite missing the sense of community and pubs in the UK, Elbi has no immediate plans to return, emphasizing the appeal of Dubai’s lifestyle. She mentioned the necessity of earning around £5,000 a month to live comfortably in Dubai due to the high expenses. Elbi remains open to the idea of building a life in Dubai but contemplates returning to the UK if she desires to start a family in the future.