Dubai, known for its perpetual sunshine, luxury lifestyle, and tax benefits, may not have everything one desires. Camilla Rhuda, a former resident of Bury in Greater Manchester who moved to Dubai eight years ago, has experienced a significant transformation in her life. Transitioning from familiar surroundings in Bury to the vibrant city of Dubai, home to iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and The Palm, Camilla’s journey has been marked by diverse career experiences and a flourishing online presence documenting her life in Dubai.
After completing a degree in media and performing arts, Camilla sought a new direction and found inspiration in a friend’s posts about life in Dubai. This sparked her interest in teaching, leading her to obtain a PGCE and ultimately secure a teaching position in Dubai. The tax-free environment in Dubai has allowed Camilla to not only enhance her financial stability but also explore her passion for travel, a luxury she found more accessible in Dubai than in the UK.
Having explored various roles in Dubai, including teaching in a British curriculum school and working for affluent families, Camilla appreciates the financial independence and lifestyle opportunities the city offers. The cosmopolitan nature of Dubai, with expatriates from over 200 countries, has provided Camilla with a sense of belonging and cultural diversity akin to her experiences in the UK.
While Dubai’s strict cultural norms have relaxed over the years, Camilla has adapted to the lifestyle changes while cherishing moments with her husband, Jim, whom she met shortly after moving to Dubai. Embracing motherhood in 2024, Camilla ventured into social media, sharing her authentic journey as a mother and expat in Dubai, garnering a significant following across platforms.
Reflecting on her time in Dubai, Camilla encourages Brits considering a move abroad to explore the opportunities and welcoming environment that Dubai offers. Despite contemplating future relocations, she acknowledges the challenges associated with potential moves to other countries due to visa complexities, highlighting the ease of settling in Dubai compared to other destinations.
