Retire to Dubai from UK: A Lifestyle Guide to the Best Expat Communities
In This Guide
Considering the move to retire to Dubai from UK? Beyond the compelling financial benefits, the most important question is simple: “Will I be happy there?” A great retirement is built on community, comfort, and a lifestyle that excites you every day. It’s about finding your perfect place in the sun.
This guide is designed to help you discover the best places to retire in Dubai. We invite you on an interactive tour of the communities most loved by British expats to find out where you could be spending your sunny afternoons.
Find Your Ideal Dubai Retirement Spot: Take the Retire to Dubai from UK Quiz!
Before we dive in, take our quick, 2-minute quiz to discover which community might be the best fit for your retirement style!
Find Your Ideal Dubai Retirement Spot
My ideal weekend involves…
My preferred home style is…
I feel most energized by…
Your Ideal Community is: Arabian Ranches
You appreciate a tranquil, community-focused lifestyle with plenty of green space. A spacious villa near a world-class golf course sounds like your perfect retirement haven. Scroll down to learn more about Arabian Ranches!
Your Ideal Community is: Dubai Marina
You thrive on energy and social connection! A vibrant, walkable lifestyle with stunning water views, endless cafes, and restaurants at your doorstep is your perfect match. Scroll down to learn more about Dubai Marina!
Your Ideal Community is: Dubai Hills Estate
You desire the perfect balance of modern luxury and serene nature. A centrally located, upscale community with premium amenities and stunning skyline views fits your style. Scroll down to learn more about Dubai Hills Estate!
Discover the Best Places to Retire in Dubai
Here’s a look at three top-tier communities, each offering a unique lifestyle for UK retirees.
Arabian Ranches: A Top Choice for a Dubai Golf Community Retirement
Best for: A tranquil, suburban lifestyle with a strong sense of community and a passion for golf.
If your vision of retirement involves lush green fairways and a peaceful, friendly neighbourhood vibe, then an Arabian Ranches retirement is your ideal destination. As one of Dubai’s most sought-after Dubai golf communities, it feels like a true escape from the city’s hustle, yet it’s only a short drive from Dubai’s main attractions.
Lifestyle Highlights:
- World-Class Golf: The 18-hole, par 72 desert-style championship golf course is the heart of the community.
- Community First: With its own retail centre and residents’ clubs, everything you need is on your doorstep.
- Spacious Living: The community is dominated by beautiful villas with private gardens, perfect for when family visit.
Dubai Hills Estate: A Modern Lifestyle and Premier Golf Community
Best for: A modern, centrally located luxury lifestyle with stunning views and premium amenities.
The Dubai Hills Estate lifestyle offers the perfect balance of serene, green living and modern, upscale convenience. This master-planned community is built around another magnificent 18-hole championship golf course, with the iconic Dubai skyline as its backdrop. For retirees who want luxury and convenience without being far from the action, Dubai Hills is an unmatched choice.
Lifestyle Highlights:
- Central Location: Perfectly positioned with easy access to Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and the international airport.
- Premium Amenities: Home to the expansive Dubai Hills Mall, a central park, and the esteemed Dubai Hills Golf Club.
- A Mix of Properties: Offers everything from ultra-luxury mansions to modern apartments and townhouses.
Dubai Marina: Vibrant Waterfront Living for Your Retirement
Best for: A vibrant, cosmopolitan waterfront lifestyle with endless dining and social options.
If your ideal retirement is less about quiet suburbia and more about a dynamic, social, and walkable lifestyle, then the experience of living in Dubai Marina is for you. Imagine waking up to stunning water views, taking a morning stroll along a 7km promenade lined with cafes, and having hundreds of world-class restaurants on your doorstep.
Lifestyle Highlights:
- Waterfront Living: The entire community is built around a stunning man-made marina, offering incredible views.
- Unbeatable Convenience: With the Dubai Tram and Metro, you can live a car-free lifestyle. The beach at JBR is just a short walk away.
- Endless Entertainment: From yacht clubs to cinemas and shopping malls, you will never be short of things to do.
A Day in the Life: Hear from a UK Retiree in Dubai
Secure Your Golden Visa and Your Dream Dubai Home
Found a community that feels like home? The next step is finding the perfect property that not only fits your lifestyle but also qualifies you for a 10-year renewable Golden Visa.
Our team doesn’t just handle the legal paperwork; we help you find your place in Dubai. Click the link below to see qualifying properties in these and other fantastic communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retiring to Dubai
We understand that planning a move abroad comes with many questions. Here are answers to some of the most common queries we receive from UK citizens.
Can I receive my UK State Pension in Dubai?
Yes, you can claim your UK State Pension while living in the UAE. You can have it paid into a UK bank account or a bank account in Dubai. It’s important to note that while you will receive the pension, it will not be eligible for the annual increases (“uprating”) that it would be in the UK.
What is healthcare like for retirees in Dubai?
Dubai has a world-class private healthcare system with state-of-the-art hospitals and clinics. As a resident, you are required to have private health insurance. There are many comprehensive plans available specifically designed for retirees, ensuring you have access to excellent medical care.
Is it complicated for a UK citizen to buy property in Dubai?
The process is very straightforward, especially in designated “freehold” areas where foreigners can own property outright. With expert guidance to handle the legalities, such as obtaining the No Objection Certificate (NOC) and registering the title deed, the process can be seamless and secure.
Do I need a new Will for my assets in Dubai?
This is highly recommended. UAE inheritance laws are very different from those in the UK. To ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, it is crucial to have a professionally drafted Will registered through the appropriate channels in the UAE, such as the DIFC Wills Service.
