After two and a half decades with the National Health Service, Dr. Martin Moody made a life-changing decision to relocate from the UK to Dubai. An unexpected health scare reinforced his belief that this shift was indeed the right choice.

The Incredible Camels of Dubai

In the heart of Dubai, Dr. Moody often finds himself enraptured by the majestic camels he cares for, particularly an eight-year-old named Mseihan. Standing alongside Mseihan, he passionately shares insights into the unique adaptations of camels. From their long eyelashes that shield them from sandstorms to their remarkable ability to regulate body temperature by eight degrees throughout the day, Dr. Moody’s fascination with these creatures is palpable.

Reflecting on his life before the UAE, Dr. Moody’s past revolved around the green expanses of Dartmoor, where he cultivated a love for horses. Coming from a military family that frequently moved, he grew accustomed to new environments, which eventually led him to pursue a medical career in London. Specializing in urology within the NHS, he dedicated 25 years to the healthcare system, even leading his department for many years. However, the pressures of this demanding role started manifesting as burnout, prompting a reevaluation of his life and career.

A New Chapter in the Desert

Dr. Moody’s thoughts of relocating to the Gulf region had lingered since childhood, spurred by stories from friends whose parents had worked there. After the pandemic delayed his plans, he found a job opportunity at King’s College Hospital in Dubai. The transition to a new healthcare system felt relatively straightforward due to the existing relationship between the NHS and the hospital.

Although initially residing in the bustling area of Al Barsha, Dr. Moody quickly realized that the serene desert lifestyle resonated more with him. “I gravitate to the desert,” he remarks, spending countless hours with camels and experiencing the tranquility of nighttime camping under the stars. Today, he resides in Damac Hills 2, enjoying expansive views of the Arabian desert and fostering a closer connection with the land and its inhabitants.

A Health Journey

Dr. Moody’s commitment to both personal and professional wellbeing was put to the test when he discovered he had severe coronary artery disease. For years, he had unknowingly ignored symptoms, attributing them to being active and healthy. However, after experiencing an irregular heartbeat while riding his camels, he took immediate action by seeking medical attention at a local clinic. This quick decision ultimately led to an important diagnosis and subsequent open-heart surgery.

Feeling grateful for timely medical intervention, Dr. Moody reflects on how his experience in Dubai has enabled him to address health concerns he might have otherwise neglected in the UK. His career and lifestyle have not only afforded him a renewed sense of health but have also solidified his belief in the robust healthcare system available in the UAE.

Embracing Life in Dubai

Nearly four years into his Dubai adventure, Dr. Moody describes his life as rich and rewarding. He actively learns Arabic and enjoys exploring the desert with his camels, Mseihan and Uli. The vibrant culture, exquisite dining, and hospitality in Dubai have deepened his appreciation for the city, enriching his everyday life.

Despite the distance, his wife regularly visits from the UK, helping their children navigate university life. Dr. Moody feels optimistic about his future in Dubai, praising the nation’s adaptive approach to challenges, be they regional or global.

In his own words, “Things always seem to come back better than they were before.” Having traded the lush greenery of Dartmoor for the golden sands of the desert, Dr. Moody has found his rhythm in Dubai. With a renewed sense of purpose and health, he sums up his experience succinctly: “Life is good.”