Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has shared his thoughts on life in Dubai, while his wife Kate has admitted to feeling homesick and plans to return to the UK for the summer. The couple, along with their five children, moved from London to Dubai last summer, but were forced to temporarily flee their £6.5 million home earlier this year due to Iranian missile strikes in the region.
Speaking to The Times, Ferdinand, 47, said his children are enjoying the outdoor lifestyle in Dubai. 'My kids are having a real-life adventure,' he said. 'My eldest daughter is 14. She loves that she’s got a bit more freedom here than she would have had in London. My five-year-old boy likes that he gets to play more football.'
However, Kate, 34, has struggled with the move. On her Blended podcast in February, she broke down in tears, saying: 'I am enjoying it, but I miss home quite a lot. I can’t talk about it because I get upset.' A source told Heat magazine that while Rio is thrilled to be back in Dubai, Kate is 'putting on a brave face' and remains scared despite his assurances of safety.
The insider added that Kate will head back to the UK for the summer and may also spend time in Portugal while Rio works in the United States for the World Cup. Ferdinand, who retired from football in 2015, left his punditry role with TNT Sports in summer 2025 to focus on his YouTube channel. He plans to attend the 2026 World Cup as a fan, staying in an Airbnb with friends.
