Kate Ferdinand has offered fans a glimpse into her family's festive London visit, sharing a series of joyful snaps before returning to their new sun-soaked home in Dubai. The former TOWIE star, 34, and her footballer husband Rio, 46, relocated to the United Arab Emirates in August, trading south-east London for a luxurious desert lifestyle.
A London Christmas with the Ferdinands
Soaking up the capital's Christmas atmosphere, Kate took to Instagram to post a carousel of heartwarming family moments. In one image, she beamed alongside Rio and one of their younger children beside a beautifully decorated tree. Another sweet snapshot captured a tender moment with her stepson, Lorenz Ferdinand, 19.
Her festive photo dump also featured a range of other activities, painting a picture of a busy pre-Christmas week. This included a pilates session with friend Daniella Forbes, a night out with her girlfriends, and a lovely day spent with her mother, Jacqueline. Captioning the images, Kate wrote: 'The week before Christmas in London filled with family time and wrapping up work for 2025.'
Inside the Multi-Million Pound Dubai Dream Home
The London trip comes just after Kate gave followers an exclusive tour of the family's stunning new Dubai residence. The couple's lavish mansion is located in the exclusive, gated community of Al Barari. According to a previous Daily Mail report, the luxury property was listed for 32.5 million dirhams, which is approximately £6,550,310.
In a weekend vlog, Kate showcased the home's modern interiors, including a cosy lounge with a gigantic TV screen and an elegant entranceway. The video featured their children, four-year-old Cree and two-year-old Shae, enjoying the spacious property. She shared her philosophy on relaxation in the caption, stating: 'Real self-care is knowing when to... choose rest over optimisation.'
Motivation Behind the Major Move
Announcing their relocation in August, the couple expressed they were 'scared, excited and nervous' but ready for a 'fresh start' in the city where they first met eight years ago. In a recent interview with The National, Rio Ferdinand opened up about the multiple reasons for the life-changing decision.
He cited lifestyle, safety, weather, and a desire for a new chapter as key factors. The former Manchester United and England defender, who left his punditry role at TNT Sports in May, also highlighted the education system. 'The education system felt different, felt better for my kids,' he explained, noting the English curriculum is taught 'a different way'.
The move comes despite their eldest son Lorenz signing his first professional contract with Brighton & Hove Albion in July. The family recently enjoyed a reunion in Dubai, with Lorenz and his brother Tate, 17, who plays for Brighton's Under-18s, flying out to visit.
Kate is also stepmother to Rio's children from his late wife Rebecca Ellison: Lorenz, Tate, and their sister Tia, 13. The family appears to be embracing their new international chapter while cherishing time with loved ones on both sides of the globe.