British Expats: The Largest European Community in the UAE

British Expats: The Largest European Community in the UAE

With approximately 240,000 British expats, they represent by far the largest group from Europe living in the UAE. To put this into perspective, the Netherlands hosts around 200,000 expats in total.

1. The Climate

British people are drawn to Dubai’s sunny weather, a stark contrast to the often gloomy skies of the UK. Dubai offers stunning beaches where residents can soak up the sun, making it a refreshing change from European beach destinations. Its proximity to the UK ensures it still feels familiar, while the relaxed and exotic lifestyle adds a unique appeal for those seeking a different experience.

2. Affordable Housing and Superior Safety

Compared to London, Dubai offers much more value for money in terms of both space and price per square foot. Popular residential areas for British expats include Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah, Meydan, and Arabian Ranches.

Dubai is also one of the safest cities in the world, consistently ranking among the top globally for safety and security.

3. Tax-Free Income

The UAE’s tax-free income is a major draw for British expats. Although the government has introduced VAT at a minimal rate of 5%, the lack of income tax is a significant advantage. Salaries in Dubai are generally on the higher side, attracting British professionals across various sectors, from fashion to manufacturing, looking for lucrative career opportunities.

4. An Established Community

The British expat community remains the largest among Western expats in the UAE. It is a relatively young and well-connected community offering support through numerous Meetup and Facebook groups. Many have initiated non-profit organizations, ranging from animal welfare to breast cancer awareness campaigns.

It’s fair to say that you’ll find a British expat in nearly every industry. Many British families have chosen to settle in Dubai, thanks to the availability of quality schools and colleges offering British education. The strong historical ties between the UAE and the UK since the UAE's founding have been instrumental in the city's development.

5. A Luxurious Lifestyle

Life in Dubai offers British expats a level of luxury that would be challenging to achieve in the UK. Dubai boasts an exceptional social scene, with world-class bars, shopping, entertainment, fine dining, and an unmatched level of convenience and comfort.

Dubai is also making significant advancements in technology, such as the development of the Hyperloop connecting Dubai to Abu Dhabi and the creation of flying taxis. According to the latest NatWest IPB Quality of Life Study, British expats ranked Dubai as their second-best destination to live and work, following Singapore.

Many British expats recognize Dubai as the city of the future and are eager to be part of its growth. Its unique blend of cultures makes it a truly global and unparalleled city to live in.