Elbi Henshaw Relocates to Dubai for a New Life, Balancing Work Six Days a Week

Elbi Henshaw, a 23-year-old personal trainer, left the UK in search of a better life, feeling disheartened by her experiences in Britain. After a holiday in Dubai, she made the significant decision to relocate to the UAE city, seeking a lifestyle that offered more positivity and opportunity.

A New Beginning in Dubai

Having previously worked in Saudi Arabia, Henshaw took the plunge in January, realizing that life in the UK felt increasingly “depressing.” With financial support from her parents, she moved to Dubai and quickly secured a full-time position at a local gym.

Settling into her new environment, Henshaw enjoys the city’s beautiful weather, stunning views, and vibrant nightlife. However, she acknowledges the challenges of affording life in Dubai, stating that she must work six days a week to make ends meet.

The High Cost of Living

The cost of living in Dubai is notably high. Henshaw reports that a tub of yogurt can cost around £12, while a cup of coffee starts at approximately £7. She describes the lifestyle as “dog eat dog,” where working long hours is often necessary to maintain a decent standard of living.

Henshaw emphasizes the financial demands of living in Dubai, stating that one would need about £5,000 a month to live comfortably. While she appreciates the lack of income tax, she notes that the overall expenses can be comparable to those in the UK.

Work and Lifestyle Balance

Initially residing in a studio flat, Henshaw later moved into a shared apartment with two other young women. After joining a local running club, she connected with a gym manager, which led to her first job as a personal trainer in Dubai.

Despite her love for the city, Henshaw admits that the first few months were difficult due to the need to obtain the proper documentation and set up bank accounts. She quickly learned that long hours were essential to afford the luxurious lifestyle associated with Dubai, which is popular among celebrities and influencers.

Navigating Social Life

Henshaw finds that Dubai presents unique challenges for young adults seeking social connections. She notes a lack of authentic meet-ups, making it difficult to meet new people outside of scheduled events. The fast-paced lifestyle means that many individuals are too busy to engage in spontaneous social activities.

While she enjoys her time in Dubai, Henshaw misses the sense of community found in the UK, particularly the social atmosphere of pubs. She expresses uncertainty about dating in Dubai, observing that many singles are not looking for serious relationships.

Life in Dubai: A Cost Breakdown

Henshaw provided insights into the costs associated with living in Dubai, highlighting the following prices:

• Cappuccino: 34 AED (~£6.86)
• Minced meat: 25 AED (~£5)
• Strawberries: 30-40 AED (~£6-£8)
• Fage yogurt (1L): 60 AED (~£12)
• Zara clothing: 130-150 AED (~£26-£30)
• Glass of wine: 99 AED (~£20)

These figures illustrate the financial realities of living in a city known for its luxury.

Future Aspirations

Reflecting on her experiences, Henshaw mentions that while she could envision building a life in Dubai, she has a timeline for her future. If she reaches the age of 27 without being in a committed relationship, she plans to return to the UK to start a family.

Henshaw’s journey illustrates the complexities of relocating for a better life, balancing work commitments with the desire for social connections and personal fulfillment.

As reported by www.dailyrecord.co.uk.

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Published on 2025-09-02 11:00:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk