Kelly Lundberg, a Scottish expat who has lived in Dubai for 22 years, has hit back at claims that the UAE city is a 'soulless' playground for the ultra-rich. She argues that Brits who regret moving to Dubai are failing to look beyond the glitz and embrace the city's true opportunities.
Lundberg, who moved to Dubai at age 21 to work as an air hostess for Emirates, now runs a successful personal styling business working with celebrities and global brands like Chanel and HSBC. She insists that those who dismiss Dubai as lacking culture are not exploring enough, pointing to Emirati heritage tours, art exhibitions, poetry nights, and the Emirates Literature Festival.
Addressing concerns about job insecurity and work-life balance, Lundberg notes that while Dubai's job market is fast-paced and results-driven, it rewards initiative and entrepreneurship. She highlights that many expats have transformed their careers, from cabin crew to CEOs, and that the tax-free income allows for greater financial freedom.
Lundberg also challenges the notion that Dubai lacks culture, stating that with around 200 nationalities, the city is 'brimming with culture'. She advises that those who find the city lacking are simply not looking hard enough, and that even traditional British comforts like Sunday roasts are widely available.
