Reality television personality Kate Ferdinand has candidly shared her feelings of homesickness for London following her family's relocation to Dubai last year. The move, which took place in 2025, saw Kate and her husband, former England football legend Rio Ferdinand, leave their long-time home in South London for a new life in the Middle Eastern city.
A Bittersweet Transition to Dubai Life
During a recent appearance on the Blended podcast, Kate expressed a complex mix of emotions about the international move. While acknowledging the positive aspects of life in Dubai, she openly admitted to missing numerous elements of her previous existence in the United Kingdom.
"I feel like we've opened our eyes to a different world," Kate explained. "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."
Family Dynamics and Personal Struggles
The Ferdinand family's situation involves multiple considerations, particularly regarding their children. Kate and Rio have two young children together - Cree, aged five, and Shae, two - who are reportedly thriving in their new environment. Kate noted that Dubai offers "amazing" opportunities for children, with abundant outdoor freedom and exposure to diverse cultures.
However, the separation from Rio's three older children from his first marriage to his late wife Rebecca has proven particularly challenging. Lorenz (19), Tate (17), and Tia (13) have remained in the UK to pursue their football careers and educational paths.
"I miss the big boys a lot and I'm just struggling with that," Kate confessed. "I know this decision is right for my younger children and as a family we are settled there, but the boys are following their football careers. So they're doing what they want to do otherwise they'd be with us."
Contrasting Perspectives Within the Family
Interestingly, while Kate experiences these pangs of homesickness, her husband Rio appears to be thoroughly enjoying their new life in Dubai. This difference in perspective adds another layer to their family adjustment, though Kate remains supportive of their collective decision.
The reality star described the separation from their established family unit as particularly difficult, stating: "It's very hard because we've been through so much as a family and we've always been together and that's a huge adjustment."
Specific Elements of British Life That Are Missed
When pressed about what exactly she misses about the UK, Kate identified several specific aspects that Dubai cannot replicate:
- The diverse cultural landscape of England
- The familiar British weather, including rain and cool air
- The wide variety of people and communities
- Established social connections and friendships
Kate articulated a wish that many expatriates share: "If I could merge the two worlds together it would be absolutely perfect." This sentiment reflects the common experience of those who appreciate the benefits of their new home while simultaneously longing for elements of their previous life.
Balancing Benefits and Sacrifices
The Ferdinand family's situation illustrates the complex calculations many families make when considering international relocation. While Dubai offers undeniable advantages for their younger children's upbringing and lifestyle, these benefits come with emotional costs, particularly regarding separation from older family members and familiar cultural environments.
Kate's honest reflections provide insight into the reality behind celebrity lifestyle changes, demonstrating that even glamorous international moves involve significant personal adjustments and emotional compromises.
