An emerging trend of expatriation for Anthony Joshua amid conflict
Anthony Joshua has officially declared himself a resident of the United Arab Emirates amid the ongoing conflict involving the USA, Israel, and Iran, reports BritPanorama.
The 36-year-old boxing champion, who won Olympic gold in London in 2012 and has been honoured with both OBE and MBE titles, submitted paperwork formally changing his residential status on Friday. This decision follows as thousands of Britons are attempting to leave the region amidst nightly bombardments from Iranian drones.
Documentation filed for his business interests, including Sparta Promotions Limited and 258 Investments Limited, reveals his determination to relocate. The move comes even as many Britons face escalating challenges in evacuating Dubai, with reports of individuals paying up to £100,000 for private jet evacuations.
Joshua’s relocation to Dubai could result in significant tax savings, given the emirate’s absence of income tax. His business empire is valued at approximately £150 million, and had he remained in the UK, Joshua would have incurred substantial tax liabilities on dividend payments from previous years. Just in 2024, his promotional company, Sparta Promotions, reported profits exceeding £20 million, leading to a UK tax bill of £6.65 million.
This shift comes as the UK’s fiscal landscape changes under the Labour government, led by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who has been warned that thousands more Britons could leave due to high tax reforms. The Office for Budget Responsibility predicts net migration could average 235,000 annually through 2030, with recent data showing more British nationals leaving the UK than previously expected.
Joshua’s announcement coincided with public discussions by former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, who addressed life in Dubai amidst missile strikes. The boxer has long been linked to Dubai, utilising its sports facilities for training and leisure, including a notable sparring session atop the Burj Al Arab hotel’s helipad in 2017.
Additionally, he has expanded his investments in the region, having recently purchased a penthouse in Oman valued at £1.2 million. Despite his relocation, observers note that Joshua’s move places him among a growing trend of wealthy Britons establishing themselves overseas, joining notable figures like Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco and Charlie Mullins in Marbella.
As Joshua navigates the complex international tax regulations, analysts suggest that ongoing regional instability may lead to a decline in property values within Dubai, potentially impacting affluent expatriates. His continued ties to the UK, however, may present a challenge, as he must limit his time there to optimise his tax position.
In the world of sport, Joshua’s departure serves as a reminder of how the extraordinary financial and political circumstances can alter the landscape for even the most celebrated athletes, bringing into sharp relief the intersection of ambition, tax, and global uncertainties.
