Many UK citizens are flocking to Dubai, drawn by its professional opportunities and the appeal of a tax-free lifestyle. However, while some are now choosing to return to Britain, it is far from a mass exodus.
For those making the move back, rising living costs in Dubai, particularly soaring housing prices, have made the city less attractive. Others are motivated by the pull of family and social connections in the UK, valuing the chance to be closer to loved ones and part of a stronger community. The UK’s rich cultural life and greater freedom of creative expression also appeal to many, offering a contrast to Dubai’s more limited cultural scene. For families with children, the education system in Britain remains a key draw, especially as youngsters reach school age, making a return home both a practical and personal decision.
Speaking to Asian Voice, Nilam Malde, who moved back to the UK with her family, said, “For us, the main reason was family. Our children are very young, and we wanted them to grow up surrounded by grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins. That was really the only reason we returned.”
Reflecting on life in Dubai, she added, “At first, I found it difficult, especially with day-to-day things like supermarket shopping, which is very different there. Over time, though, you get used to the convenience, everything can be delivered to your doorstep. Life in Dubai spoils you in that sense, whereas in the UK you’re more hands-on, which makes you more aware of everyday life.”
On comparing both lifestyles, Nilam noted, “In Dubai, everything was closer, the weather was better, and domestic help was more accessible. Here, we spend more time with family, while in Dubai friends became our extended family. Both places gave us a good support system, just in different ways.”
Choosing the UK for children, culture and christmas
Psychologist Mamta Saha said, “We never intended to stay in Dubai long-term. Many people move there to escape aspects of life in the UK, but for us it was about working for a couple of years, saving tax-free, and then returning. We always wanted our children to be educated in the UK, where we believe the standard is higher, and to grow up surrounded by the culture, museums, and heritage we experienced ourselves.”
On what she missed most while living in Dubai, Mamta said, “We longed for museums, art, good food, and above all, independence as a family. In Dubai you rely on help, but it often feels like someone is always around. We also missed nature, the greenery, the changing seasons. Even Christmas felt different there: sunny and commercial, celebrated mostly in hotels, whereas here it carries a deeper, more authentic spirit.”
Comparing her experience in Dubai with life in the UK, both personally and professionally, Mamta said, “In the UK, I have to work a little harder, but that also means working smarter. For example, without home help to cook or prepare meals, we’ve had to plan ahead and be more strategic. That shift has actually allowed us to make healthier choices and have more control over what we eat, rather than just reacting. Life here also comes with more domestic responsibility and less support, so managing time and deciding what to say yes or no to becomes really important. In Dubai, I could commit to a lot because I had help, but in the UK I’ve learned to be more selective. Of course, I can outsource some tasks, my parents and mother-in-law are wonderful with babysitting, but still, every commitment requires thought. In a way, this helps filter out people and situations that don’t truly add value to your life.”
