Should I restart my career in Dubai?
Hey Jude
I’m 29 and work in UX design. I’ve just come to the end of a long contract with a UK company and I’m trying to move into a full time role.
I won’t lie, the market feels rough right now. I’m applying a lot and getting very little back. It’s starting to feel like I’m stuck in limbo.
At the same time I keep seeing people move to Dubai. Every conversation paints the same picture. Sunshine, no tax, big salaries, nice apartments. It almost sounds too perfect.
I’m tempted by the idea of a reset and a bit of adventure. Still, I’m also wondering what day to day life is actually like, especially as a young Black man trying to build a career rather than just visit for a few months.
Should I restart my career in Dubai?
Marlon
Hi Marlon
You are definitely not alone. I hear Dubai come up a lot from people feeling stuck in the UK market right now.
You are not imagining it either. Last year alone more than 250,000 British nationals left the UK, so a lot of professionals are asking the same question right now.
There are well over 200,000 Brits living in Dubai, so clearly many people are making it work. Still, a lot of what you see online is a highlight reel. Big salaries and sunshine exist, but so do job searches, high rents and starting again socially and professionally.
Your skillset also gives you options. UX can often be done remotely, so it may be worth trying to secure international or remote work first and then deciding where you want to live from a position of strength.
I spent a short period working there during my time at Apple, so not enough to judge it as a destination. I do have my own opinions, but I want to keep this balanced.
I worked in Dubai to launch Apple's first store in UAE. I loved the experience but would I launch a new career there?
Here’s what I’d think through first.
Do proper research - Look specifically at UX roles, visa routes and how careers progress there.
Understand the job market before you commit - Know how competitive roles are, how hiring works and what employers expect locally.
Run the real numbers - Compare savings after rent, healthcare and lifestyle, not just salary.
Speak to people who actually live there - Ideally people who have been settled for a few years.
Speak to Black professionals - There are distinct Black expat communities from the UK, the US and across Africa living there, so experiences vary widely depending on passport and profession. Speak to people at a similar stage of life to you, age, career level and whether they are single, as that shapes day to day life more than people expect.
Have a clear goal - More money, faster progression or a lifestyle change each leads to a different decision.
Plan your transition - Have savings, a timeline and a backup plan before leaving the UK.
I’m a big believer in new environments stretching you. Just make sure you are moving towards something rather than escaping a tough market.
Let me know how you get on.
Jude
*This response was written before the events at the end of February
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