After 25 Years in the NHS, British Surgeon Discovers New Life and Health in Dubai’s Desert
After a quarter-century in the National Health Service, Dr. Martin Moody made the significant decision to relocate from the UK to Dubai. An unexpected health scare ultimately confirmed for him that this move was indeed the right choice.
In Dubai, Dr. Moody has developed a unique bond with Mseihan, an eight-year-old Arabian camel. As he shares insights about the remarkable adaptations of camels, including their ability to regulate body temperature and their physical features that protect them from sand, Mseihan displays impatience, nudging Dr. Moody for attention. This interaction highlights the deep understanding Dr. Moody has cultivated regarding camel behavior.
Prior to his relocation, Dr. Moody spent years riding horses in the lush landscapes of Dartmoor, UK. His upbringing in a military family, with a father who served in the British Army, instilled in him a familiarity with frequent relocations. After completing his medical training in London, he specialized as a consultant urologist in Devon, where he dedicated 25 years to the NHS, further nurturing his passion for horse riding.
Dr. Moody’s wife, a veterinarian, shares his love for animals, and together they have a variety of pets, including horses, dogs, and tortoises.
Looking for Something Different
After over two decades in the NHS, including a significant leadership role, Dr. Moody began to feel the weight of burnout. He reflected on his upbringing in post-war Britain and the stories of friends whose parents had worked in the Gulf, which sparked his interest in exploring opportunities abroad.
His search for a new position led him to a job opening at King’s College Hospital London in Dubai. Following an interview in June 2022, he relocated to the UAE by the end of October. The transition was made smoother due to the existing relationship between the NHS and King’s College, which shares similar structures and governance.
Finding the Desert
From the outset, Dr. Moody felt a strong connection to the desert landscape. Even before his move, he found himself drawn to areas like Al Lisayli. Initially, he chose to reside in Al Barsha for work-related reasons but soon realized that the quieter desert lifestyle suited him better.
Now living in Damac Hills 2, he enjoys expansive views of the desert and frequently visits the Arabian Desert Camel Riding Centre in Al Lisaili. His early experiences at the center helped him understand the differences between camels and horses. Over time, he gained the trust of the camels and began taking them on overnight camping trips in the desert.
About a year after his arrival, Dr. Moody purchased two camels: Mseihan, from the Oman desert, and Uli, who is just over three years old. His fascination with camels extends beyond their physical characteristics; he values their loyalty and the trust that must be established to work with them effectively.
A Decision Validated
Dr. Moody’s conviction that he made the right choice in moving to Dubai was solidified when he faced a serious health issue. Despite a history of physical activity, he was unaware that he had severe coronary artery disease. A few months ago, after experiencing an irregular heartbeat, he sought medical attention at a nearby clinic.
The swift access to healthcare allowed him to see a cardiologist within days, leading to open-heart surgery six weeks later. Dr. Moody expressed gratitude for the healthcare system in Dubai, noting that had he remained in the UK, he might not have addressed his condition in a timely manner.
Here to Stay
Nearly four years after his move, Dr. Moody views Dubai as more than just a workplace. He is actively learning Arabic and spends much of his free time exploring the desert with Mseihan and Uli. He appreciates the quality of life in Dubai, which includes diverse culinary experiences and exceptional hospitality.
While his wife continues to spend time in the UK to support their three children through university, she visits Dubai regularly. Dr. Moody has no intention of leaving, citing the UAE’s resilience in the face of regional and global challenges.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Moody acknowledges that he has found a fulfilling rhythm in his new life.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-07-13 18:22:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk