Justin McGuire

Dubai in 2008 vs. Today, Why I Made the Move and Never Looked Back


This photo is from 2008, the year I arrived in Dubai.

Back then, the media was full of stories about expats fleeing, abandoned supercars, and a city built on hype.

Now, in 2025, Dubai is thriving.

I didn’t come for tax benefits, I came for opportunity. My first role fell through due to the crash, but in 2010, I built one of the first niche recruitment businesses in the region. That decision changed everything.

More people than ever are making the same move.

Over 240,000 Britons now live in Dubai, with 40,000 arriving last year alone. It’s no longer a stopover, it’s a global business hub.

The Biggest Misconceptions

“Dubai is all flash, no substance.”
That’s never been true. Beneath the luxury is a serious economy,
• One of the fastest-growing markets globally
• A magnet for startups, investment firms, and global HQs
• A place where ambition is rewarded

At MCG Talent, we see this every day, businesses competing fiercely for top talent across Communications, Marketing, Tech, and Creative industries.

“Dubai is safe, but is that just PR?”
No. I’ve lived in London, Singapore and Latin America, nowhere compares.
• I can leave my car, front door, and office unlocked.
• My wife and kids can walk anywhere at night.
• Crime isn’t just low, it’s almost non-existent.

“You don’t actually save money here.”
Yes, Dubai can be expensive, but so are London, New York, and Singapore.
The difference? You keep more of what you earn.
• No income tax
• Business-friendly policies
• Lower corporate tax rates
• More investment opportunities

“Dubai isn’t cultural or diverse.”
Dubai is 85% expat, with over 200 nationalities. It’s one of the most international cities I’ve lived in.
• A thriving food, art, and music scene
• A growing creative and design sector
• Access to rich heritage across the UAE

“The summer is unbearable.”
It is. But you adjust.
• Travel opportunities are endless.
• The city slows down, meaning fewer crowds and lower costs.
• The rest of the year? Unbeatable weather.

For me, the choice to live in Dubai is simple:

Business & Opportunity – Still one of the easiest places to start and scale a company.

Lifestyle & Growth – A place where success is encouraged, not resented.

Global Access – A hub between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

My Advice

Thinking of moving - come visit.

Walk the streets.

Meet the professionals building their careers here.

Dubai isn’t for everyone.

But if you thrive on opportunity, there’s no better place right now.