With Kate and Rio Ferdinand’s move to the UAE confirmed, we explore their new life – scouting schools, dining at top restaurants, and possibly rubbing shoulders with celebrity neighbours.
Kate and Rio Ferdinand have moved to Dubai, sharing a poolside Instagram post to announce their “new chapter.”
The couple, who first met on holiday in Dubai in 2016, left Bromley, south-east London, for the exclusive Al Barari community with their children: son Cree, four, daughter Shae, two, and Rio’s older children Lorenz, 19, Tate, 17, and Tia, 14, from his late first wife Rebecca Ellison.
While Tia appeared in the Dubai photos, Rio’s older sons Lorenz and Tate were absent, Lorenz plays as a goalkeeper for Brighton & Hove Albion’s under-21s, and Tate is a defender for their under-18s team. As the Ferdinands settle into their new sunny life, here’s a look at what Dubai has to offer them…
Restaurants
Kate and Rio have plenty of options for date nights and are likely to mingle with other celebrities while out and about. They could follow in the footsteps of Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan by dining at Nobu Dubai, the upscale restaurant at Atlantis, The Palm, which has welcomed A-listers like Kendall Jenner since it opened.
If Rio fancies catching up with his fellow football legends, they can head to Nusr-Et steak restaurant, which has been visited by Lionel Messi, Paul Pogba and Virgil Van Dijk. They may want to take a snap with social media star Salt Bae who will be on hand to offer his unique seasoning technique.
Shopping
Kate and Rio can indulge in some serious retail therapy at Dubai Mall, the largest shopping center in Dubai and one of the biggest worldwide. It boasts over 1,200 stores, including high-end designer brands.
Schools
Kate and Rio have plenty of school options for their kids in Dubai. Many celebrities choose international schools, often part of the Global Education Management Systems. Their children can continue following the English national curriculum, popular in Dubai.
Nearby are two international schools: Jumeirah English Speaking School’s Arabian Ranches campus and GEMS Winchester School Dubai.
Kids’ activities
When weekends roll around, Kate and Rio have plenty of fun options for themselves and their kids. Dawn Ward, former Real Housewives of Cheshire star, lives in Dubai and often takes her grandkids to Dubai Safari Park, home to over 3,000 animals.
The beach will also be a big draw for the family. Kite Beach, a favorite of former Love Island star Andrew Le Page, offers watersports, white sand, and stunning views of the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel.
Jumeirah Beach is another family-friendly spot, frequented by celebrities like Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury with their daughter Bambi. Other stars often seen in the area include Lindsay Lohan, Jack Grealish, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Beauty
If Kate and Rio want some beauty treatments, they can turn to former TOWIE star Yazmin Oukhellou, who’s also moved to Dubai and loves sharing beauty tips with her fans.
Yazmin especially recommends Dubai-based hairdresser Kamal Salloum for anyone looking after hair extensions.