UK Spring Statement March 2026 – a summary for GCC residents

For those of us in the Middle East our thoughts are understandably on issues closer to our current homes at this time but this still has relevance to UK nationals and those with assets in the UK.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, the RT Hon Rachel Reeves, has shared her update on the UK economy – the Spring Statement. This is not a Budget, but an update, a forecast statement.

It covers the latest estimates for growth, unemployment, inflation, government spending and income from taxation has been published by The Office for Budget Responsibility.

Think of if as a bit of report card and some qualified predictions.

Following every Budget or Statement, I write an article to give you a concise overview of some of the main points, with particular reference to any changes that have major relevance to those living outside of the UK, and especially in the GCC. Quick, easy to follow, and informative

The UK press will cover many points in detail but much of it will not be directly relevant to expats so i alsoway write someitnung for us, although this has little of direct relevane to non-residents.

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There is now another important reason why you need a UAE will

A change in UAE law affects expats who hold bank accounts, property, or other assets in the UAE.

I have written about the many reasons why you need a Will in the past (see 15 reasons here) but this is something new.

If you pass away without a registered Will, your assets are now classified as “unassigned.”

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UK Budget November 2025 – a summary for GCC expats

Here we go again! This is a widely-anticipated Budget following weeks of media speculation.

I think we are all a bit fed up of the “leaks” and media briefings that are the hallmark of all Budgets in the past few years. It is also very unprofessional that The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) unexpectedly published its growth forecast ahead of the Chancellor’s statement. This contains market sensitive information so let’s hope there is an enquiry and action

The UK media frenzy and contact conjecture really helps no one.  A little more decorum all round might be nice.

Following every Budget or Statement, I write an article to give you a concise overview of some of the main points, with particular reference to any changes that have major relevance to those living outside of the UK, and especially in the GCC.

The UK press will cover many points in detail but much of it will not be directly relevant to expats, to people who are no longer tax resident in the UK, so my summaries focus on the points that will be most relevant to us.

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Turn your American dream into a plan. It’s easier than you think.

If your dream is to live and work in the USA, it may be easier than you think.

You can obtain a green card, with permanent residency in just a few months.

This is available to almost everyone and is the best value permanent immigration programme in the world.

The USA needs workers and this is how you can move to start a new life.  Start your journey to permanent relocation in the USA.

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A compelling investment opportunity for experienced investors

I am have an interesting investment opportunity that I am offering to select clients. This is not for everyone but if you want something a bit different, it could be for you…

Please contact me for details and  I will send you a fact sheet with a good overview.

Get in touch! Click on this link to send me an email: keren@holbornassets.com or use this contact form.

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Nottingham. A city of legend & a great property opportunity (starting with a 5% deposit)

You too can be a one of the merry men (or women) by investing here with a deposit of just 5%!

Buying an investment property in the UK, a low-risk and steady market is much more affordable than you might think.

This conversion development has a low entry point with an excellent yield. Deposit of just 5% and easy payment plans.  Nottingham has a shortfall of quality rental property so there is high demand and above average rental yields

The city of Nottingham is probably best known for the legend of Robin Hood and his Merry Men, the outlaws who stole from the rich to give to the poor. With this incredible investment opportunity, you don’t need to be rich, or to steal from the rich, to invest.

This is a stylish collection of new 106 studios and one-bedroom apartments set in its own grounds with the widest array of in-house amenities in Nottingham, including 24/7 concierge, residents’ gym, shared lounges, gardens, private courtyard, collaborative workspace, meeting rooms and a games & entertainment room.

Edit 05/11/25:  Just 14 units remaining so don’t delay!

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Invest in UK property with a deposit of only £7,500

Yes, really.  You don’t need large sums to start investing in UK property. You really can start with a deposit of only 5%.

Buying an investment property in the UK, a low-risk and steady market is much more affordable than you might think.

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7 Retirement planning mistakes that could cost you thousands

We all know that we need to plan for our future but few of us want to contemplate getting older so it is easy to keep putting off the topic. The fact is that planning for retirement is one of the most important financial steps you’ll ever take. Despite good intentions, many people fall into common traps that can delay or even totally derail their retirement goals.

These mistakes may seem small now, but over time, they could cost you a huge amount of money; tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds or dollars.

Here are 7 retirement planning mistakes you should avoid, with action points.

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UK tax returns – a low-cost service

Do you need to submit a self assessment tax return to HMRC? Want a bit of help but don’t want to pay a lot of money?

I have the answer for you!

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A real life sad story. What if it happens to you?

I am currently helping out someone in a tragic situation. Gemma (not her real name) is having to deal with a legal and financial nightmare.

Her husband died in an accident a couple of months ago, leaving her with two young children.

Apparently, they had said in passing that they needed to get their family finances sorted, to get wills and some life insurance, but they never got around to it.

Now she has to deal with the mess left behind and needs to support herself and two children on one income.

It is going to be hard.

But it didn’t need to be this way.

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