Dan Marsh Halts Dubai Expansion Plans Amid Rising Regional Tensions
Dan Marsh, the founder of Indelible Fine Art, has paused his plans to expand his contemporary art gallery into Dubai due to escalating regional tensions. In February, Marsh traveled to Dubai not for leisure, but to explore potential living arrangements and business opportunities. His visit was motivated by a long-standing consideration of relocating from Brighton to Dubai, a city he has frequented during the Christmas season.
Marsh expressed that the sense of safety in Dubai made it an appealing location for raising a family. He noted that friends in the city were thriving, with one successfully launching a tech business, leveraging the networking opportunities available there. He believed that moving to Dubai could also benefit his gallery, which he established in 2022. The UAE has been investing heavily in arts and culture, contributing AED 21.9 billion (£4.46 billion) to the national GDP in 2022, according to the Creative Dubai report.
UAE’s Cultural Investment
The UAE aims to position itself as a global cultural hub, with significant investments in the arts. Following the opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi in 2017, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is set to open this year, alongside the inaugural Frieze Abu Dhabi scheduled for November. Marsh recognized the potential for growth in Dubai’s art scene and was considering opening a branch of his gallery there.
After much deliberation, Marsh and his wife, India, informed their friends and family of their intention to relocate. They planned to move within the next few months, contingent upon finding suitable housing. Marsh emphasized the importance of safety, particularly with a young child in mind, stating that London felt increasingly chaotic compared to Dubai.
Property Search in Dubai
In February, Marsh organized a week of property viewings across Dubai, exploring various types of accommodations. He also scouted locations for a new gallery, including Dubai Mall, which hosts several prominent art galleries. He believed that establishing a presence in such a high-traffic area could significantly enhance the visibility and success of his gallery.
With thoughts of starting a family, Marsh and India also considered educational options in Dubai, noting that schools there might offer better opportunities than those in the UK.
Regional Instability and Its Impact
However, recent geopolitical developments have cast a shadow over Marsh’s plans. The UAE, traditionally viewed as a safe haven, has found itself entangled in the escalating conflict between the US and Israel and Iran. Following military strikes on February 28, Iran retaliated against Gulf Cooperation Council members, including the UAE.
Incidents such as attacks on Dubai’s Fairmont Hotel and the Burj Al Arab, along with minor damage at Dubai International Airport, have raised concerns about safety in the region. These events have disrupted travel plans, leaving many passengers stranded and causing flight cancellations from the UK to the Middle East.
As reported by www.aol.co.uk, Dubai’s property market had previously thrived, with a 25% increase in total property sales value projected between 2024 and 2025. However, the recent turmoil has prompted some, including influencers and expatriates, to reconsider their plans to remain in the UAE.
Uncertainty Ahead
Marsh, like many others, is now reassessing his options. He noted that the safety he once associated with Dubai has diminished, leading to uncertainty about the future. He expressed frustration at the halt in their plans, stating that they had made significant progress toward relocating.
He acknowledged that while he is relieved he had not finalized any property agreements, the situation remains fluid. Marsh and his wife have decided to pause their plans for the time being, returning to the drawing board as they navigate this uncertain landscape.
For now, Marsh remains in limbo, unsure of his next steps. Even if the current conflict were to resolve, he believes it is premature to determine whether opening a gallery in Dubai would still be a viable option.
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Published on 2026-03-10 20:26:00 • By Editorial Desk
