The 4 Best Countries To Move To From The UK in 2026 (HNWI Guide)
Amie Roberts • January 27, 2026
Introduction
More wealthy UK residents are exploring life overseas ahead of the 2026/27 tax year. Higher UK taxes, political uncertainty and a desire for a different way of living are all pushing people to look at alternatives.
Four destinations stand out for high-net-worth UK individuals as at late 2025:
1. United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
2. Portugal
3. Switzerland
4. Malta
Each offers a different blend of tax advantages, residency options and lifestyle.
United Arab Emirates (Dubai) - Dubai is now the default choice for many UK entrepreneurs and professionals.
Tax
For individuals, there is currently no personal income tax on salaries, bonuses or most investment income, and no local capital gains or inheritance tax regime for individuals. There is VAT and a developing corporate tax regime, but personal tax remains far lighter than in the UK. The UK–UAE double tax treaty helps reduce the risk of the same income being taxed twice and needs to be considered alongside UK residence rules.
Residency
Common routes for UK nationals include:
- Employer- or company-sponsored residence visas
- Remote-worker visas for those employed or self-employed abroad
- Long-term “golden” style visas linked to investment, property or professional status
- Retirement options for over-55s.
(All require private health insurance and periodic renewal.)
Lifestyle
Dubai offers a high standard of living, excellent connectivity and a large, well-established British community. Housing and schooling are expensive and the lifestyle can encourage overspending, but for many the tax position and opportunity outweigh the costs.
Best for: Maximising net income and building or scaling a business in a dynamic, international city.
Portugal
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Portugal appeals to those who want EU residency, a milder climate and a slower pace of life.
Tax
The old NHR regime has closed to new applicants and been replaced by a newer incentive framework (often referred to as IFICI) aimed at certain professionals and activities. The UK–Portugal tax treaty reduces double taxation, and Portugal does not operate a classic wealth tax, though property-related charges can apply. (It's signed and ratified but not yet fully in force as of early 2026, which may slightly affect immediate tax planning).
Residency
Post-Brexit, common routes for UK nationals include:
- D7 visa – for those with sufficient passive income (pensions, investments, rentals).
- D8 / Digital Nomad visa – for remote workers with qualifying income from abroad.
- Work and other residence visas tied to employment or specific skills.
These can lead to long-term residence and, ultimately, citizenship if physical presence and integration tests are met.
Lifestyle
Cost of living is generally below the UK (though higher in central Lisbon and the Algarve), English is widely spoken in cities, and the public and private healthcare systems are well regarded. There are large British and wider international communities.
Best for: Those wanting EU residence, good quality of life and a balance of tax and lifestyle advantages.
Switzerland
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Switzerland attracts UK families who prioritise security, discretion and top-tier services.
Tax
Tax is set at federal, cantonal and communal level, so overall rates vary widely by canton. Well-chosen cantons can be very competitive for both individuals and companies.
Private capital gains are not generally taxed, but there is an annual wealth tax on net assets, with rules depending on location.
For suitable non-working individuals, some cantons still offer lump-sum (forfait) taxation, where tax is based on living costs rather than worldwide income, subject to minimum levels and conditions.
Residency
As non-EU nationals, UK citizens use:
- B permits – time-limited residence, often linked to work
- L permits – short-term residence for specific assignments
- C permits – longer-term settlement after sustained residence and integration
Wealthy retirees and non-working individuals may be able to obtain residence based on financial self-sufficiency and, in some cantons, lump-sum taxation.
Lifestyle
High costs are offset by excellent infrastructure, schools and healthcare (with compulsory private health insurance). International communities are strong in Zurich, Geneva and other cities, though social life can feel more formal than Southern Europe.
Best for: Those seeking stability, discretion and first-class public services and education, rather than the lowest day-to-day costs.
Malta
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Malta is a compact EU state with a very familiar feel for UK nationals: English is an official language and the legal and business environment is comfortable for British professionals.
Tax
Malta’s tax system and UK–Malta treaty can be particularly attractive where you hold significant foreign-source income. Under the Global Residence Programme, qualifying individuals can pay a favourable flat rate on foreign income remitted to Malta, while foreign capital gains kept offshore are generally not taxed in Malta.
There is no separate wealth tax and no classic inheritance tax, though duties may apply to certain Maltese assets. The separate “golden passport” (citizenship by investment) route has been struck down by the EU’s top court, but residence programmes remain available.
Residency
Options for UK citizens include:
- Employer-sponsored Single Permits combining work and residence
- The Global Residence Programme for financially self-sufficient individuals meeting property and minimum tax thresholds
- Digital-nomad-style visas for remote workers
- Long-term residence after several years of compliant stay
Lifestyle
Costs (especially rent and property) are typically lower than in the UK outside the most fashionable areas. English is widely used in government and business, healthcare is solid, and London is only a short flight away.
Best for: Those wanting an English-speaking EU base with favourable treatment of foreign-source income and a tight-knit expat community.
How to decide & next steps
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All four countries can work extremely well for UK high-net-worth individuals, but for different profiles:
- Choose Dubai if your priority is low personal tax on active income and you are comfortable with a high-energy city.
- Choose Portugal if EU residency, climate and lifestyle matter as much as tax.
- Choose Switzerland if stability, education and healthcare are at the top of your list.
- Choose Malta if you want an English-speaking EU base with flexible options for foreign income.
The right answer depends on your overall wealth, income mix, family plans and how tied you remain to the UK.
If you would like bespoke, confidential advice on whether remaining UK-resident or relocating to Dubai, Portugal, Switzerland or Malta is the better strategy for your situation, you are welcome to get in touch to explore your options in detail.
FAQs
Q1. Are these countries always more tax-efficient than the UK?
Not always. Dubai is usually more favourable for earned income; Portugal, Switzerland and Malta can be highly efficient for certain profiles and structures, but outcomes depend on your income mix, residence pattern and whether you access any special regime. Proper modelling is essential.
Q2. Can I keep ties to the UK if I move?
Yes, but time spent in the UK needs to be managed carefully under the UK statutory residence test, especially if you keep property, business interests or children in UK schools. The more ties you keep, the less time you can safely spend in the UK each tax year.
Q3. How should I start planning a move?
Typically: choose one or two candidate jurisdictions, obtain tax advice that compares “stay” versus “go”, review residency routes and timelines, and then align property, schooling and business decisions with your preferred structure before triggering any move.
Dubai continues to attract high-net-worth individuals from the UK and around the world. Its tax efficiency, strong infrastructure and international business environment make it an appealing base for both personal wealth and global business operations. However, relocating or investing in Dubai without proper planning can lead to costly mistakes. Understanding the legal, financial and cultural environment before making decisions is essential. Below are some of the most common pitfalls HNWIs should avoid when relocating to Dubai in 2026... Overlooking Tax Planning A common misconception is that living in Dubai means there are no tax considerations. While the UAE has no personal income tax, the regulatory environment has evolved in recent years. The introduction of UAE corporate tax, VAT and international tax reporting requirements means individuals with businesses, investments or global income streams still need structured tax planning. Those relocating from the UK must also consider the implications of the Statutory Residence Test, potential split-year treatment and double taxation agreements. Failing to structure finances properly before relocating can create unnecessary tax exposure in multiple jurisdictions. Rushing Property Investments Dubai’s real estate market offers strong opportunities, but it also requires careful due diligence. Off-plan property purchases in particular should be approached cautiously. Buyers should review the developer’s track record, financial strength and delivery history. Market cycles are also important to consider, especially as increased supply in certain areas could lead to price corrections in the future. Taking time to assess location, developer credibility and long-term demand helps protect capital and avoid poorly performing investments. Underestimating the Real Costs of Property Ownership The advertised purchase price is only part of the financial commitment when buying property in Dubai. Investors should also factor in: The Dubai Land Department (DLD) transfer fee of 4% Ongoing service charges for buildings or communities Maintenance and management costs Ignoring these costs can significantly impact overall investment returns. Failing to Prepare for Banking Requirements Opening bank accounts in the UAE can be more complex than many expect, particularly for international clients. Banks require extensive documentation to comply with international anti-money laundering regulations. If financial structures or documentation are unclear, accounts can be delayed, restricted or even frozen. Ensuring all financial arrangements are transparent and properly structured before relocation makes the process significantly smoother. Misunderstanding Residency and Visa Options Many individuals assume residency can be arranged later or through temporary arrangements. In reality, visa planning should be part of the relocation strategy from the outset. For example, long-term residency options such as the UAE Golden Visa have specific investment and eligibility criteria. Understanding these requirements early allows individuals to structure investments and assets accordingly. Ignoring Local Laws and Regulations Dubai is known for its safety and order, but this is supported by a strict legal framework. Actions that might be overlooked elsewhere, such as offensive language, inappropriate social media content or public intoxication, can carry significant legal consequences. Financial transactions and business activities are also closely regulated. Taking time to understand the legal environment helps avoid unnecessary issues. Underestimating Cultural and Lifestyle Differences Dubai is an international city, but it operates within a framework of local customs and expectations. Respect for public behaviour, dress standards in certain locations and cultural sensitivity are all important. Practical factors such as the extreme summer climate can also affect lifestyle choices and property decisions. Understanding these aspects helps individuals settle comfortably and avoid unnecessary challenges. How Mosaic Chambers Group Can Help Relocating to Dubai is rarely just about moving location. It involves tax planning, asset structuring, property considerations, residency strategy and cross-border compliance. At Mosaic Chambers Group, we support high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs with the strategic planning needed to relocate with confidence. Through our international network of tax advisers, legal specialists and relocation partners, we help clients: Structure their affairs before leaving the UK Manage cross-border tax exposure Understand residency and visa options Conduct proper due diligence on investments Establish compliant financial and banking arrangements Careful planning at the outset can prevent costly mistakes later. If you are considering relocating to Dubai in 2026, speak to Mosaic Chambers Group to ensure your move is structured correctly from day one. Contact Us
How internationally mobile high-net-worth individuals structure global income while managing tax exposure across jurisdictions such as the UK and UAE.