Rio Ferdinand has claimed his children have 'more freedom' in Dubai than in the UK after returning to his £6.5 million mansion in the United Arab Emirates. The former footballer, 47, and his wife Kate Ferdinand, 34, had fled Dubai in March following 'scary' Iranian drones that forced them to shelter in the basement of their seven-bedroom home.
Family's Return to Dubai
After taking refuge in Portugal and then travelling to London and the Maldives, the couple returned to their ultra-modern 12,700 square foot home in Dubai last month. The property features a sprawling garden and a pool. Ferdinand also put his £10.5 million mansion in Orpington, Kent up for sale in April, signalling a permanent move to the tax-free emirate.
Children's Preferences
Speaking to The Times, Ferdinand said: 'My kids are having a real life adventure in Dubai. My eldest daughter is 14. She loves that she's got a bit more freedom here than she would have in London. My five-year-old boy likes that he gets to play more football. The kids are absolutely loving the outdoor-living aspect.'
Ferdinand and his wife Kate, a fitness influencer from The Only Way Is Essex, now consider Dubai home. Kate told Khaleej Times: 'We all feel very safe in Dubai. We are happy to be home.'
Criticism of UK Taxes
Ferdinand has repeatedly criticised the UK's tax system since moving. On LBC Radio, he said: 'If things like the health service were absolutely flying and working perfectly well, then I think people wouldn't mind paying tax. But when there are things falling apart in the country, I wonder if our tax is going towards benefiting the people who live here.'
The former England defender, who quit his pundit role with TNT last year, has spoken glowingly about his new life. 'In Dubai, it feels like they're valued and the lifestyle means they're happy and vibrant with good energy for the kids. Lifestyle, safety, weather - it's just a new life.'
Homesickness and Adjustment
Despite Ferdinand's enthusiasm, Kate had previously expressed homesickness. On their Blended podcast, she said: 'Rio loves it so much. I am enjoying it, but I miss home quite a lot. I miss the big boys a lot and I'm struggling with that.' However, she added: 'I feel like we've opened our eyes to a different world. But I love London, I love the UK. I do feel happy in Dubai.'
