Moving from South Africa to start a business in Dubai with Kirsty Jones-Ep 42
The Relocated South African | Emigration storiesPlay episode
Show notes
In this episode of the Relocated South African podcast, host I speak with Kirsty Jones, founder of Federated Advisory in Dubai.
Kirsty shares her journey from South Africa to Dubai, discussing the safety, stability, and opportunities the UAE offers for expats.
She highlights the challenges of starting a business in a new country, the importance of transparency in advisory services, and the need for community among South Africans abroad.
She also believes that the UAE offers a transparent government and very low taxes combined with absolute physical safety.
Kirsty also addresses the cultural dynamics of being a woman in business, the cost of living in Dubai, and the unique challenges of communication in the UAE.
Maintaining family connections is critical for emotional well-being.
The conversation concludes with valuable advice for those considering relocation to the UAE.
Kirsty Jones: “Dubai is very fitness focused."
"I miss South African chips so much!"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Relocated South African Show
01:04 Kirsty Jones: Journey from South Africa to Dubai
02:13 Why Choose the UAE? Safety and Stability
03:16 Starting a Business in Dubai: Kirsty's Experience
05:14 The Need for Transparency in Advisory Services
06:56 Navigating Business Setup in the UAE
08:14 Common Business Ventures for South Africans
09:47 Supporting South Africans in Job Searches
11:07 Overcoming Red Tape in the UAE
12:19 Cultural Dynamics: Women in Business
15:46 Challenges of Isolation in a New Country
17:12 Building Community Among Expats
18:51 The Temporary Nature of Life in Dubai
19:07 Connecting People and Networking
20:02 Finding Accommodation in Dubai
20:30 Coping with the UAE's Climate
24:41 Cost of Living: Balancing Salaries and Expenses
28:30 Understanding Alcohol Regulations in the UAE
29:49 Communication Challenges: WhatsApp and VPNs
33:04 Advice for Future Expats
34:34 Final Thoughts on Relocating to the UAE
Contact Kirsty at www.federatedadvisory.com
Find your digital home with fellow Relocated South Africans around the world. Visit https://therelocatedsouthafrican.com and connect with Jan at jan@therelocatedsouthafrican.com
