As the UAE increasingly becomes a destination not just for work but for life after work, a growing number of retirees are choosing to spend their golden years in the country.
From long-term residency options to internal relocation for cost savings, retirement in the UAE is taking on new shapes — and it’s clear that this trend is here to stay.
According to Dr İdil Akıncı, social policy lecturer at the University of Edinburgh and a researcher with the AlSerkal Arts Foundation, retirees in the UAE are adapting in two key ways.
“The ability for adult children working in the UAE to sponsor their ageing parents has made it possible for some retirees to prolong their stay,”
she said.
“Similarly, the introduction of long-term residency options like the Golden Visa has played a key role.”
Dr İdil, who has been studying family dynamics in the UAE since 2013, also noted a growing trend of financial planning through internal relocation.
“Some families are moving to more affordable emirates where the cost of living is lower than in Dubai. This helps them better manage retirement savings and daily expenses.”
Another emerging pattern is transnational retirement — where retirees divide their time between their home countries and the UAE, taking full advantage of the country's visa flexibility and lifestyle appeal.
Real Estate Choices Reflect Lifestyle Priorities
As more retirees look to put down roots in the UAE, real estate choices are becoming a central part of the retirement conversation. Wail Abualhamail, Director of Real Estate at ASICO, confirmed that property ownership among retirees is on the rise.
“Retirees are naturally drawn to areas like Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Jumeirah Village Circle,”
he said.
“These places offer a balance of luxury, convenience, and affordability. What really matters to them is being close to good healthcare, green spaces, shopping, and that strong sense of community.”
He added that off-plan properties are increasingly popular among retirees due to their flexible payment plans.
“It’s a practical way to stretch their budgets,”
he explained.
“Areas like Al Furjan and Dubai South offer good-quality homes at lower prices, and some retirees are even investing in rental properties to generate passive income.”
Real estate agent Shabna Ibrahim also noted the growing interest from senior buyers.
“Just last month, I had two clients in their 60s looking to invest,”
she said.
“Many prefer quieter emirates like Ras Al Khaimah or Sharjah, where the cost of living is lower. They often choose communities with walking paths and easy access to amenities.”
Healthcare: A Top Priority and Ongoing Challenge
While the UAE offers an appealing lifestyle, healthcare remains a key concern for retirees. Geriatric medicine specialist Dr Rahul Unnikrishnan highlighted that access to advanced medical care and the high cost of health insurance are major challenges.
“Insurance premiums are steep, and even then, coverage is often basic,”
he said.
“One of my patients, in his 80s, lives in a remote area where advanced care isn’t readily available. While he’s managing for now, it’s not ideal.”
Dr Rahul proposed the introduction of a health card system for long-term residents — one that could cost around Dh10,000 to Dh15,000 annually and provide access to public hospital care.
“With the rising number of retirees here, this could be a valuable step in making the UAE more elder-friendly,”
he suggested.
The Future of Retirement in the UAE
As more expats consider the UAE not just as a workplace but a long-term home, the idea of retirement is evolving. From community-oriented living to smarter financial planning and calls for better healthcare solutions, retirees are reshaping the country's social landscape.
And with its mix of sunshine, safety, modern amenities, and cultural diversity, the UAE may soon become one of the most attractive retirement destinations in the world — if it can continue to meet the needs of its ageing residents.
News Source: Khaleej Times
