British boxer Anthony Joshua has surprised many by announcing his decision to leave the United Kingdom for Dubai, despite the current tensions in the region due to the US-Iran conflict. The 36-year-old former heavyweight champion, who hails from Watford with Nigerian roots and achieved Olympic gold in 2012, is making the move to the UAE. This move was revealed through paperwork filed for his substantial £150 million business portfolio, where he had to declare his new country of residence.
Even amidst the ongoing conflict involving the USA, Israel, and Iran, Joshua proceeded with his plans to change his residency to Dubai. The UAE has been the target of missile and drone attacks by Iran in recent days, prompting a significant exodus of over 100,000 Britons from the region back to the UK.
Dubai’s attractive weather, top-notch amenities, and tax-free environment have long been appealing to the affluent, drawing individuals seeking a high-quality lifestyle. Joshua, faced with potential UK tax liabilities on his significant earnings, found the tax benefits of Dubai enticing compared to the UK tax structure.
Joshua’s company, Sparta Promotions, reported substantial profits and paid UK taxes in the past years. His decision to relocate coincides with similar moves by celebrities like Rio Ferdinand and Kate Ferdinand, who shared their experiences living in Dubai amid the heightened tensions in the region. Despite the challenges posed by the conflict, the Ferdinands reassured their followers of their safety and the government’s efforts to ensure their well-being.
Joining a growing list of celebrities, Joshua will soon establish his residence in Dubai, following in the footsteps of other notable figures like Amir Khan and Lindsey Lohan, who have chosen to make the UAE their new home.