Dan Marsh Halts Dubai Relocation Plans Amid Rising Regional Tensions

In February, Dan Marsh traveled to Dubai not for leisure but to explore potential housing options as he contemplated relocating from Brighton. For years, he had been weighing the decision to move to Dubai, often pondering the pros and cons of such a significant change.

Marsh expressed that the sense of safety in Dubai made it an appealing place for family life. He noted that friends residing in the city were thriving, with one successfully launching a tech business thanks to the networking opportunities available.

The potential for business growth was a crucial factor in Marsh’s decision-making process. Since 2022, he has operated Indelible Fine Art, a contemporary art gallery in Brighton. With ongoing investments in the arts and culture sector in the UAE, he considered expanding his business into Dubai.

The UAE has been actively working to establish itself as a global cultural hub, contributing AED 21.9 billion (£4.46 billion) to its GDP in 2022, as highlighted in a recent Creative Dubai report. The opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi in 2017 marked a significant milestone, with the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the inaugural Frieze Abu Dhabi also set to debut this year.

Marsh acknowledged the UAE’s substantial investment in the arts, stating that the country is at the forefront of cultural initiatives. He and his wife, India, had informed their friends and family of their plans to relocate within the coming months, contingent on finding suitable housing.

Marsh emphasized the importance of safety, particularly with a young child in mind. He remarked that compared to London, Dubai felt like a more suitable environment for raising a family.

In February, Marsh scheduled a week of property viewings across Dubai, exploring various apartments, villas, and houses. He mentioned having seen several appealing options but was still deliberating on the best location.

Additionally, he investigated potential sites for a new gallery, including Dubai Mall, which hosts renowned establishments like MB&F M.A.D. Gallery and Eden House of Art. He believed that a location in Dubai Mall would enhance foot traffic and visibility for his gallery.

As Marsh and India considered starting a family, they also visited prospective schools, noting that educational options in Dubai might surpass those available in the UK.

However, recent geopolitical tensions have cast a shadow over Marsh’s plans. The UAE, known for its safety, has recently been affected by the escalating conflict between the US and Israel and Iran. Following US and Israeli strikes on February 28, Iran retaliated with attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council members, including the UAE.

Last week, Iran targeted Dubai’s Fairmont Hotel, with social media footage capturing fires near the entrance. The Burj Al Arab hotel was also reportedly struck by an intercepted drone, and Dubai International Airport experienced minor damage, leading to significant travel disruptions and flight cancellations from the UK to the Middle East.

Dubai’s property market had seen substantial growth in recent years, attributed to its reputation as a safe haven. Between 2024 and 2025, total property sales value increased by 25%, with over 500 homes sold for more than £7.5 million last year, marking a record high for the luxury market.

Now, some individuals, including a British influencer who paid £100,000 for a private jet, are hastily departing the UAE. Marsh has also reconsidered his plans to move.

Industry experts are closely monitoring the situation, with concerns that prolonged conflict may lead individuals to question the safety of investing and residing in the region. Jo Eccles, a buying agent, noted that in similar past situations, there has been a flight to safety.

Marsh, like many others, has been following the developments closely, having seen alarming footage of the Burj Al Arab Hotel on social media. He stated that he had been determined to proceed with his plans until recent events unfolded.

The safety aspect had always been paramount for him, and he expressed concern that the perceived security of Dubai has been compromised. He articulated frustration over the halted progress in their relocation plans, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the situation.

Currently, Marsh finds himself in a state of limbo, unsure of his next steps. Even if the conflict were to resolve, he believes it is premature to determine whether establishing a gallery in Dubai remains a viable option.

He expressed relief that he had not finalized any housing agreements, stating that he and his wife have decided to pause their plans for now, effectively returning to square one.

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Published on 2026-03-10 20:25:00 • By Editorial Desk