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by Barbara Yakimchuk

Dubai Insiders: Caroline Labouchere On the Art Of Moving To New Countries

17 Nov 2025

We have officially reached the halfway point of Season 1 with the previous episode — meaning there aren’t many insiders left to join us in our cosy studio, sharing stories about their beloved, occasionally divisive, yet always welcoming city: Dubai.

This time, guiding us through her Dubai is none other than Caroline Labouchere. She moved here 15 years ago and has lived all over the city — from Arabian Ranches and Sports City to Jumeirah Heights. And one thing she strongly believes is that Dubai moves at its own speed — fast. You either keep up or step aside.

But the conversation wasn’t solely about life in Dubai. It was about daring to live boldly, regardless of age — whether you are 30, 40, or 60. It is an episode full of inspiration, great places to bookmark, and gentle reminders that it is never too late to reinvent yourself.

Here are four things to discover in our podcast with Caroline:

  • How long it took Caroline to adapt — and how that adaptation is connected to “The Dubai Stone” effect. Caroline is something of a relocation expert — she has lived in more than 20 places around the world and knows exactly what it takes to settle somewhere new. In Dubai, it took her around two years to fully adapt. One of her most interesting observations is the “Dubai Stone” effect: everything can be delivered, everyone is constantly hosting brunches — so once you move to Dubai, expect to… gain a little weight! It can feel overwhelming at first, but once you settle, you decide the pace.
  • Caroline’s favourite food spots. Her top pick is Jamavar — known for its excellent service and outstanding dishes. Yes, it comes at a price, but she insists it is worth sitting through late-night traffic for. For pizza, it is Pitfire. And for Japanese cuisine, she swears by Sushi Samba — a place so good it can convert even those who claim they don’t eat sushi.
  • Caroline’s take on local style. Her main message to everyone living here: know where you are, be respectful, and dress with cultural awareness — what you see people wearing in Dubai Mall is not always considered entirely appropriate. As for her own style philosophy, it is simple: a good pair of jeans and a crisp white shirt will take you almost anywhere.
  • Her wildest running and cycling adventures. Caroline isn't just a model and influencer — she is a true sport-lover. Her most extreme cycling challenges include two major routes: a flag-to-flag ride from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, and a coast-to-coast journey from Dubai to Al Aqah. Her boldest running achievement? 100 kilometres in a single day — a reminder that it is never too late, especially considering she ran her very first marathon at the age of 50.

Listen now

Come for the food and fashion tips — stay for the fun stories about the best concerts and her craziest (yet truly inspiring) sports challenges.

Missed previous episodes? Here you go: