Boxing star Anthony Joshua to relocate to Dubai from the UK

British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua is set to relocate his residency from the United Kingdom to the United Arab Emirates, choosing Dubai as his new base despite rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The former two-time heavyweight champion disclosed the move through corporate filings connected to his business interests, which list the UAE as his country of residence. The change signals that the 36-year-old boxer will now be officially based in the Gulf state.

Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, rose to global prominence after winning a gold medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics. Since turning professional, he has built a reputation as one of boxing’s most commercially successful athletes while also receiving national honours in the UK.

Business filings reveal new residency

Documents tied to Joshua’s business empire, estimated at £150 million, show that the UAE is now listed as his place of residence.

The filings are connected to companies linked to the boxer’s commercial activities, including Sparta Promotions Limited. Financial disclosures show the company recorded profits exceeding £20 million in 2024 and paid about £6.65 million in corporate taxes in the UK.

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Joshua also received dividend payments estimated at £10.1 million in 2024 and £6.3 million in 2023 through the business.

Another company associated with the boxer, 258 Investments Limited, which manages parts of his investment portfolio, also lists the UAE as his residence in corporate records.

Together, the entities form part of Joshua’s wider business portfolio spanning promotions, sponsorships, and investment ventures.

Dubai remains attractive for global athletes

Joshua’s move comes at a time when regional tensions have increased due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Despite security concerns linked to drone-related incidents across parts of the Gulf region, Dubai continues to attract high-net-worth individuals, athletes, and entrepreneurs.

The city’s appeal is largely driven by its tax structure, which does not impose personal income tax, alongside its luxury lifestyle offerings and advanced sports infrastructure.

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Joshua has maintained a long-standing relationship with Dubai, frequently travelling to the city for training camps, sponsorship engagements, and leisure.

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In 2017, he gained global attention after staging a sparring session on the helipad of the iconic Burj Al Arab.

His relocation reflects a broader trend of international sports personalities establishing residences in Dubai. Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand is among several high-profile British figures who have moved to the emirate in recent years.

The trend has also extended beyond sports. Egyptian billionaire Nassef Sawiris previously relocated his family office operations to Abu Dhabi as part of a growing wave of global investors setting up operations in the region’s financial hubs.