Case Studies: UK Entrepreneurs Who Made the Move to Dubai
 

As UK tax policy tightens and global mobility becomes a strategic asset, more British founders are choosing Dubai as their base for scaling, investing, and preserving wealth. These case studies highlight how three high-profile entrepreneurs leveraged Dubai’s business environment to transform their outcomes.

Peter Watson – Featured Group - Relocation Year: 2023
Sector: Marketing, Media, and Business Strategy

Peter Watson, co-founder of Featured Group, moved to Dubai in response to rising UK capital gains tax and the erosion of Business Asset Disposal Relief. He saw the shift not just as a tax play, but as a strategic repositioning.

Peter now operates in a dynamic, tax-free environment where reinvestment and global networking are frictionless. He credits Dubai’s entrepreneurial energy and international mindset for expanding both his business and personal horizons.

Barney Hussey-Yeo – Cleo (Fintech) - Relocation Year: 2024
Sector: AI-Powered Financial Technology

Barney, founder of Cleo, relocated after the UK scrapped Entrepreneurs’ Relief and raised CGT on share disposals. With Cleo scaling rapidly in the US, Dubai offered a neutral, tax-efficient base for global expansion.

Cleo has since raised over $140 million and is on track to reach unicorn status. Barney’s move reflects a broader trend among tech founders seeking regulatory clarity and capital freedom.

Charlie Morgan – Online Business Coach - Relocation Year: 2023
Sector: Digital Coaching and Sales Automation

Charlie Morgan moved to Dubai as a calculated business decision, leveraging the city’s tax-free earnings and safety to scale his online coaching empire. In just two years, he generated over £30 million in revenue. He praised Dubai’s infrastructure, lifestyle, and entrepreneurial culture:

While Charlie eventually returned to the UK, his Dubai chapter was a masterclass in rapid monetisation, global branding, and strategic relocation.

James Parker – Property Investor – Background as a  London-based entrepreneur
Invested in Dubai real estate in 2025

James transitioned from browsing listings in Surrey to closing a high-yield property deal in Business Bay. Initially overwhelmed by options and sales pitches, he partnered with La Foret Real Estate to build a data-driven investment plan.

His Dubai portfolio now includes short-term rental units and a long-term villa investment, offering both lifestyle flexibility and passive income.

Daniel Ionescu – Strategic Advisor & Thought Leader
Background: UK-based startup strategist
Relocated in 2024 amid UK tax hikes

He now advises UK founders on scaling internationally, using Dubai as a launchpad for global ventures.

John McDonald  Health and fitness Guru Creator – YouTube Influencer
Relocated to Dubai for safety, tax, and brand growth

Cited Dubai’s safety, infrastructure, and tax-free earnings as key reasons for the move. Their channel now features health and fitness, business tips, and relocation advice—monetised through sponsorships and affiliate deals.

James Hewson  Real Estate Sales

 Moved to Dubai with local form and shortly after setting up his own firm with a partner.

This founder expanded hid business first across Dubai and then opened offices in other GCC countries.  Helped other Brits navigate visa, property, and business setup. Their own move was a proof-of-concept—demonstrating how Dubai’s regulatory clarity and lifestyle appeal can be packaged into a premium advisory offering. Since sold his business and retired in Dubai with no tax die on sale.

What These Stories Reveal about main motivations:

•             Tax Efficiency: Dubai enables founders to retain significantly more of their exit capital.

•             Global Positioning: The city offers access to emerging markets and international talent.

•             Lifestyle & Safety: Entrepreneurs benefit from a secure, high-quality environment that supports both business and wellbeing.

•             Scalability: From AI startups to coaching empires, Dubai supports rapid growth across sectors.

Next Steps:

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