By Desmond Nleya
British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua has reportedly relocated to Dubai, joining a growing number of wealthy individuals leaving the United Kingdom in search of more favourable tax environments.
According to reports citing corporate filings highlighted by the Daily Mail, Joshua has listed himself as a resident of Dubai. The move is widely believed to be driven by financial considerations, particularly the United Kingdom’s tax system.
Unlike the UK, Dubai — part of the United Arab Emirates — does not impose personal income tax. This policy has made the city an increasingly attractive destination for high-net-worth individuals seeking to reduce their tax burden while maintaining global business interests.
Joshua’s business empire is estimated to be worth around $160 million, meaning he could face tax liabilities of approximately $11 million under UK tax rules in 2024. By establishing residency in Dubai, the former heavyweight champion could significantly reduce such obligations.
The relocation comes amid warnings of a broader “millionaire exodus” from the UK. The Office for Budget Responsibility has projected that about 50,000 people annually, many of them wealthy British citizens, could leave the country in the coming years.
Meanwhile, data from the Office for National Statistics indicates that around 257,000 British nationals left the UK in the year ending December 2024, highlighting a growing migration trend among citizens.
Joshua, a two-time heavyweight world champion, has strong ties to Nigeria and also holds Nigerian nationality. His move reflects a broader pattern of global elites relocating to tax-friendly jurisdictions such as Dubai, which continues to position itself as a hub for international business, sport, and finance.
