Anthony Joshua has made a surprising choice to relocate from the United Kingdom to Dubai, despite the ongoing tensions between the US and Iran in the UAE. The 36-year-old, a former heavyweight world champion born in Watford with Nigerian roots, had represented Great Britain and secured a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics. He is now switching his residency to the UAE, as reported by the Daily Mail after filing paperwork for his £150 million business empire, which includes declaring his new country of residence.
Even amidst the conflict involving the USA, Israel, and Iran, Joshua proceeded with his decision to move to Dubai. Recent attacks by Iran using missiles and drones in the UAE have led to over 100,000 Britons attempting to return to the UK from the Middle East. The appeal of Dubai’s weather and amenities, along with the absence of income tax, attracts many affluent individuals to the city.
Joshua’s company, Sparta Promotions, recorded profits of £20.396 million in 2024 and paid £6.65 million in UK taxes that year. He would have faced UK tax obligations on his dividend payments of £10.1 million in 2024 and £6.3 million in 2023.
This decision by Joshua coincides with Rio Ferdinand and Kate Ferdinand sharing their experiences of living in Dubai during the US-Iran conflict. Rio Ferdinand mentioned the challenges and adjustments his family faced, including hearing aircraft sounds and explosions, while Kate reassured followers of their safety following missile strikes in Dubai.
Joining a list of celebrities moving to Dubai, Joshua will be among notable figures like ex-boxer Amir Khan and Hollywood star Lindsey Lohan who have chosen to settle in the city.