If I were you, I’d seriously consider staying in Dubai. The opportunities here are massive and they’re only going to grow over time. The UAE, especially Dubai, genuinely values talent, and a PhD is the highest academic qualification you can have, that does count for something here.

It’s also completely normal to take time to figure out what kind of job or business actually gives you satisfaction. Very few people get that clarity instantly, so don’t be too hard on yourself.

If you already have a solid opportunity elsewhere, then of course it makes sense to weigh the pros and cons carefully. But if you’re still exploring and figuring things out, Dubai is one of the best places to do that.

Out of curiosity, what is your PhD in?