On The Sofa with British Mums

In this episode of On the Sofa with British Mums, Emma is joined by Sophie from the British Mums dream team and her husband Gil from Espace Real Estate for a relaxed, honest chat about life, property, and planning for the future in Dubai. They discuss how the recent regional conflict has affected house prices and rent, asking whether some of those changes might actually benefit families, as well as where people are choosing to buy, where they’re investing, and what’s really happening in different communities across the city.
True to British Mums form, there are plenty of tangents, giggles, and real-life stories along the way, making this episode as entertaining as it is informative. Listeners are also reminded not to miss the British Mums Guide to Staycations, packed with ideas for making the most of family time in the UAE while you think about your next move.
https://www.espace.ae/
https://britishmums.com/dubai/british-mums-guide-to-the-best-uae-staycations-for-families-couples-to-relax-recharge/
https://britishmums.com/dubai/events/
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In Season 3, Episode 17 of On the Sofa with British Mums, Emma is joined by Jen from the British Mums team and special guest Pamela from Travel Counsellors for a feel‑good conversation all about holidays close to home. They chat through some of the incredible UAE staycation options on offer, how families can support local tourism, and the positive impact that has on the wider economy.
With EID on the horizon, they explore holiday opportunities to look forward to, swap favourite travel memories, and share the little moments that make trips truly memorable. 
This episode was pre‑recorded just before online learning (briefly we hope) resumed, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the added pressure that has brought for many families in the community and let you know we are all thinking of you!
This chat Is a warm, hopeful listen for anyone who loves to travel, wants to champion local businesses, or simply needs a bit of sunny escapism in the middle of a busy, challenging season.
https://britishmums.com/dubai/events/
https://www.travelcounsellors.ae/
#you're-a-part-of-this

Season 3’s latest episode of On the Sofa with British Mums is a warm, uplifting listen all about happiness and community in uncertain times. 
Emma is joined by Caitlyn and special guest Gillian from The Happy Tribe in Dubai to chat about how we can support small businesses right now, and why that matters so much for the people and families behind them.  

They also dive into the simple things that genuinely make us happy—from everyday moments and tiny rituals to finding connection and purpose in our local communities. 
It’s an honest, feel-good conversation full of practical ideas, positive energy, and reminders that even in wobbly seasons, we can still choose to show up for each other and find joy in the little things.
https://thehappytribe.ae/
https://britishmums.com/dubai/events/
#you're-a-part-of-this

Welcome back to Season 3 of On the Sofa with British Mums! I’m Emma, and today I’m joined by Cat from the British Mums team for a chat that honestly left me wishing I could go back to school myself. We’re talking to Headmaster Simon Barber and Head of Pastoral Care Sophie Barber from Ludgrove School, and their warmth and energy shine through from the very first moment.
In this episode, we dive into what makes Ludgrove feel so special—from muddy-knees outdoor adventures and proper fresh-air freedom, to “Sunday Fundays,” tight-knit friendships, and a school culture that genuinely feels like a big, caring family. At the heart of it all is kindness: the idea that how the boys treat themselves and each other matters just as much as what they achieve, and that character, empathy, and compassion sit alongside ambition every single day.
We also talk about how Ludgrove balances that deep focus on pastoral care with serious academic rigour—creating an environment where children are stretched, challenged, and supported to aim high, all while feeling truly seen and cared for as individuals. If you’ve ever wondered what a truly nurturing, yet academically ambitious, boarding experience can look like, you’re going to love this one.
So grab a cuppa and settle in for a heartwarming conversation that might just have you wanting to sign up alongside your kids.
https://britishmums.com/dubai/events/
https://www.ludgrove.net/
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Season 3, Episode 14 of On the Sofa with British Mums feels like a big-sister catch-up in the best possible way. 
In this episode, host Emma Isbell is joined by the “big sisters” of British Mums, Rohini Gill and Heather Harries, for a real and honest conversation about what life in the UAE looks like right now.

They discuss the realities behind the headlines for both small and large businesses, the balancing act of homeschooling, Zoom calls, and family life, and the quiet ways so many are adapting behind the scenes. The episode is filled with candid moments, shared frustrations, and plenty of “me too” stories—but running through it all is a strong undercurrent of hope.

This conversation isn’t just about what the community is going through; it’s about what it’s growing into. Together, they reflect on the resilience of mums and business owners, the creativity that continues to thrive, and the belief that rebuilding is not only possible but inevitable—wiser, stronger, and more connected than ever. It’s a thoughtful, uplifting listen with women who’ve been there, seen it, and continue to cheer everyone on every step of the way.
https://britishmums.com/dubai/events/
#you're-a-part-of-this