Why More US Retirees Are Choosing Dubai Over Florida and the Carolinas
For years, US retirees seeking sunshine and tax-friendly living have turned to Florida and the Carolinas to settle down. But now, a surprising new destination is attracting retirees in large numbers—and it’s not even in the US.
Dubai: A New Retirement Hotspot
Before 2020, only Dubai residents and foreign workers who had reached the state’s retirement age could retire there. However, in 2021, the UAE government changed residency laws, allowing expats over 55 to apply for a retirement visa. This visa also extends to their dependents, including spouses and children.
Since then, thousands of US retirees have made Dubai their home.
A Safe, Modern, and Multicultural City
Dubai offers retirees a secure and welcoming environment. Ola Williamson, research director at Expatra, a company that helps retirees relocate, highlights Dubai’s appeal:
“It’s great, absolutely safe, and welcoming. Very easy for foreigners to settle down. Services are digitized, and English is spoken and used everywhere. At the same time, Dubai is very multicultural. A short walk in the evening and you will catch snippets of conversations in five or six different languages around you.”
With a population of 3.8 million, Dubai has experienced rapid growth over the past 30 years, leading to world-class infrastructure, wider roads, and soaring residential and commercial buildings. The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, hosting international art, theater, and music events. Additionally, its crime rate is among the lowest in the world.
Year-Round Sunshine and Endless Activities
One of Dubai’s biggest draws is its warm climate, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 90°F throughout the year. Retirees can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including waterfront strolls, botanical gardens, and even desert safari adventures.
As more retirees discover Dubai’s unique blend of modern luxury, safety, and tax-friendly living, it’s becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional retirement destinations in the US.
Would you consider retiring in Dubai? Let us know in the comments!