Dubai’s luxury property scene has added another billionaire to its list of high-profile buyers — Lakshmi Mittal, one of the UK’s richest residents, is now the owner of a palatial mansion in Emirates Hills, often dubbed the “Beverly Hills of Dubai.”
The India-born steel magnate, who leads ArcelorMittal, the world’s second-largest steelmaker, purchased the lavish estate earlier this year, according to sources familiar with the deal. While the property was originally listed for a staggering Dh735 million, it reportedly sold for around half that amount (Dh367), still placing it among the most expensive homes ever sold in Dubai.
The Baroque-style villa is known for its extravagant detailing, including interiors decked out in gold leaf. It sits in one of Dubai’s most exclusive gated communities, a favourite among royalty, celebrities, and ultra-wealthy investors.
Billionaires Move East
Mittal’s latest acquisition comes amid growing interest from global elites in Dubai’s booming property market, which has seen a surge in demand since the pandemic. Fellow Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s family has also snapped up luxury property in the emirate.
This move also coincides with a broader exodus of high-net-worth individuals from the UK, driven by recent tax reforms. At 74, Mittal is said to be evaluating his residency options after the UK scrapped its non-domiciled tax regime, a long-standing system that allowed wealthy foreigners to avoid UK tax on overseas income for up to 15 years.
He hasn’t yet made a final decision about leaving the UK, but sources say the recent changes have prompted serious consideration. If he does relocate, it would mark a significant shift for Britain’s business elite. Other billionaires such as Nassef Sawiris and Bart Becht have already moved out of the UK.
A Global Footprint, With Deep Ties to the UK
Despite the Dubai purchase, the Mittals’ presence in the UK remains strong. They still list their Kensington mansion as a primary residence and run LK Advisers, their family office, from central London. The Mittal Foundation has donated over £20 million to healthcare and medical causes in the UK, cementing the family’s philanthropic legacy.
They’ve also made headlines for importing fine art, jewellery, and rare wines into the UK over the past decade, reflecting their status as one of Britain’s most influential billionaire families.
