British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua has officially become a resident of Dubai, according to recent corporate filings, joining a growing number of high-net-worth individuals moving to the United Arab Emirates even as the region faces heightened security concerns following Iranian retaliatory strikes.
The move comes amid global instability in the Middle East, though sources suggest Joshua’s relocation is primarily motivated by financial considerations. Dubai’s tax-free environment allows residents to avoid income tax, which would otherwise impose substantial obligations in the United Kingdom.
Joshua’s business interests are valued at roughly $160 million, for which he would have faced an estimated £11 million tax bill in 2024 under UK regulations. By establishing residency in Dubai, he effectively reduces his fiscal liability while maintaining access to international markets and training facilities.
The move aligns with broader trends highlighted by the UK’s Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), which estimates that around 50,000 British nationals could relocate abroad annually, largely motivated by tax considerations. The so-called “millionaire exodus” has accelerated in recent years, with the Office for National Statistics reporting that approximately 257,000 Britons left the UK in the year ending December 2024.
Joshua, a two-time heavyweight champion with family roots in Nigeria, retains his dual nationality, underscoring his international identity and business footprint. Observers note that the relocation reflects a growing pattern of elite athletes and entrepreneurs seeking financial security in low-tax jurisdictions while balancing global mobility.
While Dubai remains a magnet for affluent expatriates, some foreigners are reportedly reconsidering their presence in the UAE due to recent missile and drone activity linked to Iranian retaliation, though Joshua’s filings suggest confidence in his long-term residence plans.
The boxer’s move is likely to generate discussion both in sports and finance circles about tax planning, residency, and the impact of geopolitical tensions on expatriate decisions.
