I’ve followed Angelique Vlieg online for years as the founder of Shopaholic, a leading Dutch online magazine on kids' fashion. We've crossed paths at events—a poised, vibrant woman. After she relocated half her family to Dubai, her stunning social media posts of sun-soaked beaches and adventures sparked my curiosity. What drives someone to trade Dutch life for Dubai? Angelique generously shared her firsthand story.
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“Say honey: what do you think of Dubai?”
It started with that casual question. My husband had spent 20 years working in Germany and Switzerland before two years back in the Netherlands. He was restless, yearning for the international life that fueled his passion. Opportunities like this don't come twice, so we seized it—heading to Dubai with half our family.
We have four children: two teenagers and two younger ones, ages 7 and 5. The teens weren't thrilled. Our 21-year-old, still studying, stayed behind—a decision I fully respect. My 18-year-old daughter was tougher; it felt wrong for parents to leave the nest. She's in great hands back home, and they visit for every holiday, but I miss them deeply.
Read also: moving with children, from plan to reality
The little ones adapted seamlessly. Dubai is incredibly child-friendly, and they've beamed with joy from day one. After a two-week 'vacation' phase, school began. Language barriers were tough at first—no English yet—but kids are resilient. Within six weeks, they're thriving, chatting in a mix of English and Dutch. Seeing them in uniforms melted my heart.
Read also: Learn to speak English from an early age
My 'fifth child,' Shopaholic.nl—a thriving kids' fashion and lifestyle platform—came too. Blogging is portable; with internet, my MacBook, and iPhone, I'm set. Nearly three years in, I remain passionate about it.
I collaborate with a dream team of eight Dutch bloggers for reviews of local brands, shot and written in the Netherlands. From Dubai's pristine beaches, I edit, coordinate, handle admin, and nurture partnerships—cocktail optional.
I also pen columns for a regional glossy. I miss the kids' fashion fairs in the Netherlands, Italy, and France, plus blogger events, but stay connected via WhatsApp and blogs—from a beach lounger under palms. Every cloud has a silver lining.
Dispelling myths: Women here drive, work, skip veils, and yes, enjoy wine (discreetly). With 85% expats, Dubai feels Western, ultra-safe, and spotless—a true privilege. We live in a compound: a secure community with playgrounds, sports fields, pools, shops, dining, and our school. We bike to school Dutch-style, unlike the SUV crowds.
We're savoring every moment—beach clubs, parks, malls, restaurants—without tourists' rush. Dubai is home, for now. Summers bring Dutch treats like stroopwafels and family reunions, even rain. Until then, endless Dubai sunshine!
Love,
Angelique
Follow her Dubai journey on Instagram: Mydutchdubai
