Camilla Rhuda relished her decision to leave the UK for a vibrant life in Dubai. With the allure of sunny weather, luxurious amenities, and significant financial incentives, Dubai has captured the hearts of many expatriates seeking a fresh start. However, the charms of this dynamic metropolis don’t come without sacrifices, as Camilla candidly reveals her experiences, highlighting the ups and downs of adapting to this new lifestyle.

Life Transformation: From Bury to Dubai

Originally hailing from Bury in Greater Manchester, Camilla relocated to Dubai approximately eight years ago, embarking on a journey that has greatly reshaped her life. After earning a degree in media and performing arts, she sought fresh opportunities beyond her hometown. The appeal of teaching in Dubai caught her attention, inspired by social media posts from a friend who had already made the transition. Motivated to travel and break away from the traditional career path, Camilla quickly acquired her PGCE and landed her first teaching job in Dubai shortly after four months of teaching in the UK.

Her career trajectory evolved from teaching in schools to working as a governess for affluent families, which not only provided her financial stability but also a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of Dubai’s elite. Reflecting on her experience with expatriates, she notes the outstanding support systems in place for newcomers, making the transition smoother for those looking to start anew in a foreign environment.

The Financial Perks of Dubai Living

One of the most enticing aspects of living in Dubai is the absence of personal income tax, allowing residents to keep their entire earnings. Camilla shares how this financial freedom has enabled her to elevate her lifestyle, travel extensively, and save for the future. “You get fast-tracked into it because it’s tax-free and doubles your salary,” she explains. Her ability to travel extensively across various Asian countries during holidays has not only broadened her horizons but also underscored the significant differences between life in Dubai and the UK.

As she settled into her new life, Camilla built a flourishing online presence, sharing authentic moments of her daily life. The genuine engagement with her followers stems from her openness about both the joyous and challenging aspects of motherhood and life as an expatriate. With over 123,000 followers on Instagram and nearly 40,000 on TikTok, her content resonates with many who appreciate her candid perspectives.

What She Misses About the UK

Despite the vast advantages offered by life in Dubai, Camilla admits there are aspects of her British roots that she misses dearly. The sense of community, including casual visits to friends and enjoying nature, has been challenging to replicate in Dubai. The convenience of the UK lifestyle, marked by quick trips to local shops or scenic walks, contrasts sharply with her new life in a city where online shopping is the norm, and nature feels a world away.

Additionally, while the food culture in Dubai boasts high-quality options, Camilla longs for the budget-friendly grocery stores she frequented in the UK. “While everything carries a heftier price tag here, the quality matches up,” she observes, appreciating the culinary diversity but longing for more affordable alternatives.

Looking Ahead

As Camilla reflects on her decade-long experience in Dubai, she recognizes the city’s evolution and opportunities for expatriates. With plans to continue traveling globally with her family, she acknowledges the complexities that accompany relocating elsewhere. While Dubai has offered her a warm welcome and numerous opportunities for growth, transitioning to a new destination may require more extensive planning and resources.

Ultimately, her story illuminates the balance between embracing new adventures and cherishing the familiar, showcasing the multifaceted journey of a modern expatriate in an ever-evolving world.