After nearly a decade of living in Dubai, one British expat made the difficult decision to move her family back to the UK—only to be met with disappointment, financial strain, and a system that felt broken.
In a candid account, the mother of two revealed how the UK’s soaring living costs, failing public services, and lack of opportunities left her questioning whether returning was the right choice.
The Dream vs. The Reality
Having built a comfortable life in Dubai—where sunny skies, tax-free salaries, and efficient services were the norm—she expected the transition back to Britain to be challenging but manageable. Instead, she was met with relentless financial pressures and a society that felt increasingly strained.
Sky-High Costs and Crumbling Services
From extortionate energy bills to unreliable public transport, the family struggled with the UK’s deteriorating infrastructure. "Everything feels more expensive and less efficient," she explained. "In Dubai, things just worked. Here, we’re constantly battling rising prices and failing systems."
A Decline in Quality of Life
Beyond finances, the family noticed a stark difference in safety, cleanliness, and overall well-being. "My children had more freedom in Dubai," she admitted. "Here, we’re always worrying about safety, school quality, and whether we can afford basic necessities."
Is the UK Still Worth It?
Her story raises a pressing question: Is Britain still the welcoming homeland expats remember? For her, the answer is clear—"If I could go back, I would stay in Dubai."
Her experience reflects a growing sentiment among returning expats who find the UK unrecognisable from the country they left behind.
