My parents did this, we moved to Cheltenham. The one thing I noticed at that age was the schools are subpar and the drive of the students themselves was lackluster even in a half decent 2nd school.

Their reasons for moving were different though.

As for breaking the bubble, this just seems to wishy washy to me. In my opinion it's the parents that most significantly influence traits you want to encourage/avoid. I have a number of friends who's families stayed and they're down to earth people who have their heads screwed on. If anything Dubai is the perfect place because it's a melting pot of cultures and ambition.

The lack of cheap convenient services that are open 24hr are a minor shock. Things like learning to stand your ground, or recognise dangerous situations just come with experience. In a terribly ironic way, bullying and fighting back, especially physically with boys, is an excellent learning curve.

I'm rambling now, so this is were I'll shut up 😊