403: The UAE: Why I Left a Country I Loved

Mikkel Thorup|04/08/2026|

Geopolitical risk in the Middle East is back in the spotlight, and for many people, it’s raising deeper questions about stability, long-term planning, and where to build a life. Recent events have forced a conversation that most prefer to ignore: what happens when you’re living in a region exposed to conflicts far beyond your control?

In today’s episode, I share a personal story about why I chose to leave the UAE after nearly a decade, despite genuinely loving the country. I break down how that decision was shaped by long-term thinking around risk, family, and resilience.

Enjoy!

IN TODAY’S EPISODE

Tune in as I break down the geopolitical risk that became the #1 driver behind my decision to leave the UAE almost 7 years ago
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the moment I realized staying would be the bigger risk than leaving
Listen in as I break down why a “great country today” can still be the wrong place for your family’s long-term future
Hear how food, water, and energy resilience influenced our decision about where to move next

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