Festive Celebrations in the Desert
Former TOWIE star Kate Ferdinand has given her Instagram followers an intimate look at her family's first Christmas celebration in Dubai, showcasing both lavish festive decorations and precious family moments. The 34-year-old reality television personality and her husband, former England footballer Rio Ferdinand, 46, have traded their traditional southeast London Christmas for sun-drenched festivities in the United Arab Emirates.
Despite the warm December weather, Kate has fully embraced the Christmas spirit, transforming their £6.5 million gated property in the exclusive Al Barari community with elaborate festive decor. The entrance to their luxurious home features stunning berry and ribbon garland arrangements, while two wreaths with matching red ribbons adorn the double doorway.
Family Moments and Festive Traditions
Heartwarming family photos reveal Kate's four-year-old son Cree and 14-year-old stepdaughter Tia decorating the family Christmas tree together. The children appeared cosy in matching white pyjamas as they hung white and gold baubles, completing the tree with an oversized white bow.
The Ferdinand family dynamic is particularly special, with Kate serving as stepmother to Rio's three teenage children from his previous marriage to Rebecca Ellison, who tragically passed away in 2015. The couple shares two young children together - son Cree, four, and daughter Shae, two - creating a blended family that spans generations.
Inside their desert home, the festive theme continues with matching garland wrapped elegantly around the staircase banister, proving that Christmas spirit knows no climate boundaries.
Dubai Lifestyle and Family Reflections
The Ferdinand family made their move to Dubai in August, with Rio recently explaining their decision during an interview with The National. "Lifestyle, safety, weather and just a new life" were cited as key factors in their relocation decision. The former Manchester United defender emphasised that the move has allowed him to spend more quality time with his family, noting "My family are seeing me so much more."
However, Kate has been candid about the emotional challenges of their new life abroad, particularly being separated from Rio's elder sons Lorenz, 19, and Tate, 17, who remain in England pursuing football careers with Brighton & Hove Albion. The emotional strain became particularly evident when Tate recently surprised the family with a visit to Dubai.
Kate shared her feelings on Instagram, writing: "I've had the best two days, and now that he's left I'm on a complete emotional spiral. We're having the most amazing time in Dubai... But wow... I miss Lorenz and Tate so much."
When questioned about their long-term plans in Dubai, Kate revealed uncertainty about their future, telling followers: "I'm really not sure. We took the leap by moving here and thought we would try something new... in short, I have no idea what the future holds."
The family's social media posts also showcase their active Dubai lifestyle, with photos of Kate and Rio working out together in coordinated gym wear and enjoying date nights in matching black outfits. Kate demonstrated her impressive physique in various outfits, from cropped shirts and skirts at beach clubs to relaxed holiday wear while soaking up the winter sun.
Rio recently commented on the UK tax system during an LBC Radio appearance, questioning whether taxes were benefiting public services. While not directly linking this to their move, he noted: "If things like the health service, for example, was absolutely flying and working perfectly well then I think people wouldn't mind paying tax."
As the Ferdinand family navigates their new life in the Middle East, they continue to share their journey of blending family traditions with exotic new surroundings, creating Christmas memories that bridge continents and generations.
