Kate Ferdinand has candidly revealed that her relocation to Dubai is causing significant skin problems, including breakouts and boils, as she grapples with the challenges of adjusting to her new life abroad. The former TOWIE star, aged 34, recently became emotional while discussing her homesickness for the United Kingdom and her stepsons during a heartfelt podcast episode.
Skin Struggles in the Desert Climate
Speaking on the latest instalment of her Blended podcast, Kate detailed the distressing impact Dubai's environment has had on her complexion. 'My skin has been so bad since I’ve lived in Dubai,' she confessed. 'I’ve had so many breakouts, I’ve normally got quite clear skin and I’ve been having boils under my neck.' She expressed uncertainty about whether the intense heat, weather conditions, or even water quality in the United Arab Emirates are to blame, noting that showers require filters which might contribute to the issue.
Emotional Toll and Family Adjustments
The influencer admitted to feeling insecure about her skin and struggling emotionally after returning from a cosy Christmas visit to London. Kate, along with her husband Rio Ferdinand, 47, moved their family to Dubai in August last year, bringing their children Shae, two, Cree, five, and Rio's daughter Tia, 14. However, Rio's sons Lorenz, 19, and Tate, 17, remained in the UK to pursue their budding football careers, creating a painful separation.
Kate elaborated on her mixed feelings: 'I feel like we've opened our eyes to a different world. But I love London, I love the UK. I love so many things about the UK. I do feel happy in Dubai, but I'm just missing a part of me.' She acknowledged that while the move has been beneficial for her younger children, who are thriving with outdoor freedom, and has helped Rio become more present by stepping back from his pundit role at TNT Sports, the family dynamic shift is a huge adjustment.
Safety Versus Nostalgia
Despite feeling safer in Dubai compared to the UK, Kate confessed to missing quintessential British elements. 'If I could merge the two worlds together it would be absolutely perfect,' she mused. 'I think I miss people. I miss the rain. The cold, cool air on your face. I miss the culture of England. Certain types of people and all different types of people.' She added that she appreciates the multicultural exposure for her children in Dubai but longs for home comforts.
Work-Life Balance and Ongoing Struggles
Kate highlighted positive changes, such as Rio's improved work-life balance, where he is more engaged in family activities like school runs. However, she has openly shared her battles with fatigue and the pressure of juggling motherhood with a busy work schedule since the start of the year. 'It's not like I'm unhappy, I'm adjusting,' she stated, emphasising her ongoing process of acclimatisation to a slower pace of life in Dubai.
