Brit who moved to Dubai to escape 'miserable' UK reveals major downside to new lifestyle
We've all seen those multi-millionaires on TikTok who are moving out to Dubai because they can wear their Rolex watches without getting robbed.
But even regular people appear to be making the move to the luxurious Middle Eastern country - whether it's the tax-free income and high standard of living, or the booming job market and sunny climate, it seems many are heading out to live in the UAE city.
Or perhaps the 'Habibi Come To Dubai' song is part of the reason why.
Elbi Henshaw, however, would prefer to work six days a week in Dubai after realising how 'miserable' life is in the UK.
Advert
Originally from Barnet in North London, the 23-year-old said she made the move at the start of the year with the help of her parents.
After finding herself full-time work at a gym with 'high end clients', the personal trainer claims she is loving life.
"In the UK, I was so depressed and miserable and everyone is so sedentary - I wanted a more active lifestyle," Elbi said. "Out here, everyone is happier and active and they all want to be the best versions of themselves."
However, that's not to say that the grass is always greener.
"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," Elbi explained when touching upon how expensive it is to live in Dubai.
She also warned that paying zero tax pretty much cancels itself out because of how high the cost of living is.
Elbi - who lived in a studio flat before moving into a shared apartment with two other women - said: "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 £3k a month, but you want more like £5k 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."
Another drawback for her is she misses 'the sense of community and pubs in the UK' and when it comes to dating, she 'can't really imagine meeting someone out here and it becoming serious'.
Despite the negatives, Elbi claims she will never move back to the UK because 'everywhere is spotless' and 'it makes you realise how dirty the UK is'.
Elbi's price guide for Dubai:
Cappuccino - £6.86
Mince meat - £5
Strawberries - £6-£8
Fage yoghurt 1L - £12
Cheapest thing in Zara - £26/30
Glass of wine when out - £20
Topics: Dubai, Holiday, Travel, UK News, Cost of Living
Anish Vij