Relocate2UAE was founded with a simple mission: to make relocating to the United Arab Emirates as smooth and successful as possible for families and professionals worldwide. What started as a fresh perspective on family relocation has grown into the UAE's most trusted relocation resource.
The Phillips Family - Abu Dhabi, 2025
"Paul (Chartered Accountant), his wife (teacher), and their three boys"
In 2025, my wife and I, Paul Phillips, made the life-changing decision to relocate to Abu Dhabi with our three boys. Originally from Ireland, where we had lived our whole lives, we had previously experienced international relocation when we moved to Vancouver, Canada from 2012 to 2014, before the kids came along. As a Chartered Accountant and with my wife being a teacher, we thought our Vancouver experience would prepare us for the UAE, but we quickly discovered how different each market could be.
Despite all the digital transformation and online resources available today, we found ourselves struggling to decode the real workings of the UAE market. Everyone had different advice about which banks to use, which areas to live in, and how the property market actually functioned. The official processes seemed straightforward online, but the practical reality was much more nuanced.
Finding the right schools for our three boys was particularly challenging. While websites showed availability, understanding the true reputation of schools, their admission processes, and how to navigate waiting lists required insider knowledge that wasn't readily available. Many decisions seemed to depend on understanding unwritten rules and market dynamics.
As we navigated these challenges, we began to notice a significant gap in the market. Unlike our experience in Vancouver from 2012-2014 where comprehensive relocation support was readily available, the UAE seemed to lack a centralized service that truly understood the complete family relocation journey. Most services were fragmented, focusing on single aspects like visas or housing, but missing the bigger picture.
After successfully establishing our family in Abu Dhabi, we realized we had inadvertently developed the exact expertise that was missing in the market. My wife and I co-founded Relocate2UAE from this market gap we identified, combined with our international relocation experience and fresh understanding of UAE market dynamics. Our mission is to provide the comprehensive, family-focused relocation support that we wished had existed when we made our move.
We understand that relocating affects the entire family. Our services are designed to ensure every family member - from toddlers to grandparents - feels supported and excited about their UAE journey.
Through strategic partnerships and our professional network, we've built strong relationships with the UAE's best service providers. From top-tier banks to prestigious schools, our partners share our commitment to excellence.
We provide honest, realistic expectations about life in the UAE. Our guides include both the opportunities and challenges, ensuring you make informed decisions about your move.
Founder & CEO | Chartered Accountant
Originally from Ireland, Paul (Chartered Accountant) and his wife (teacher) lived in Vancouver, Canada from 2012-2014 before having children. Recently relocated to Abu Dhabi in 2025 with their three boys, they identified a significant market gap for comprehensive family relocation services in the UAE and founded Relocate2UAE to fill this need.
Business Set Up Consultant
UAE national with law degree from Emirates University. Specializes in visa regulations, business setup, and real estate law. Fluent in Arabic and English.
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Former international school principal with 20+ years in education. Expert on UAE curricula, school admissions, and educational planning for expat families.
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RERA-certified property expert with 15+ years in Dubai real estate. Specializes in family accommodations, lease negotiations, and community selection across all Emirates.
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Senior HR professional with extensive network across UAE's top employers. Specializes in career transitions, CV optimization, and connecting expats with their ideal roles.
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