In this episode of Dubai Real Estate Unplugged, Steven Leckie, Associate Director at haus & haus, speaks with long time client and friend Nicholas Horsburgh about life after work, property investment and retirement planning in Dubai. Together, they reflect on Nicholas’s journey from the UK to the UAE, discussing what makes Dubai an exceptional destination for retirees seeking comfort, community and investment stability.
Key takeaways
- Dubai offers retirees safety, sunshine and strong community connections.
- Property ownership and rental yields provide a practical retirement investment plan.
- Healthcare quality and access are consistently high.
- The city’s cultural and social diversity support active, fulfilling lifestyles.
- Dubai continues to rank among the best cities to retire for comfort, security and opportunity.
Why Dubai appealed as a retirement destination
Nicholas explains that after years of cold English weather and demanding work schedules, he and his wife decided to look for somewhere warm, safe and well connected to family abroad. After travelling through Asia and visiting several potential locations, Dubai emerged as the clear choice.
“The safety, climate and lifestyle here are unmatched,” Nicholas says. “It’s easy to travel, the healthcare is excellent and the standard of living is incredibly high.”
This combination of security, accessibility and infrastructure has made Dubai one of the best cities to retire, particularly for those seeking a balance of comfort and convenience.
Building a fulfilling lifestyle after retirement
Since settling in Dubai, Nicholas and his wife have created an active, sociable routine. From coffee mornings and boat outings to cultural events and travel, their life reflects the city’s emphasis on community and leisure.
They regularly visit nearby destinations such as Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and the World Islands, highlighting how easily retirees can explore new places while enjoying luxury retirement living.
Nicholas notes that Dubai’s safety and cleanliness contribute significantly to their wellbeing: “Fear has disappeared from daily life here. You can walk anywhere at night and feel safe.”
Investing as part of a retirement plan
The discussion moves to Nicholas’s investment journey, which began when he and Steven met while searching for their first home in Dubai Marina. Over the years, Nicholas expanded his portfolio with multiple properties, each offering reliable returns and long term value growth.
He views real estate as a cornerstone of his retirement investment plan, explaining that rental income provides a steady financial base alongside other assets. “When my book royalties eventually slow down, my properties will sustain us,” he says.
Steven highlights that this mix of income and capital appreciation showcases Dubai’s appeal for real estate investing after retirement.
Healthcare and practical considerations
Many retirees worry about healthcare access and cost. Nicholas shares that Dubai’s private medical system and insurance options have exceeded expectations. His experience has been positive both for routine check-ups and for his wife’s treatments.
“Everything is efficient and quick,” he explains. “Appointments are easy to book, the service is professional and you are always treated with care.”
This ease of access, combined with comprehensive insurance coverage, reinforces Dubai’s reputation for dependable retirement planning in the UAE.
Community, culture and everyday life
Nicholas praises Dubai’s multicultural community and thriving arts scene. From concerts and opera to art fairs and Indian classical music events, he notes that retirees can find endless opportunities for cultural enrichment.
He also highlights the city’s infrastructure improvements and ongoing green initiatives, which make everyday life increasingly pleasant. Parks, beaches and walkable neighbourhoods provide ample space for recreation and reflection.
“Every year the city becomes greener and more vibrant,” he says. “It’s inspiring to see how it keeps improving.”
