I
moved to Dubai in March 2020 for a job in luxury real estate, and my drinking habits changed significantly over time. In the UK, I would often binge drink on weekends without any regrets, but it was ingrained in our culture. When I first arrived in Dubai, I drank occasionally, but as my role became more successful, my drinking increased dramatically.

    I started to feel "hazy" at work and my colleagues were also struggling with hangovers. By November 2023, I noticed that my decision-making was getting worse when I drank, and I said things I wouldn't have ordinarily. My personal trainer advised me to give up drinking for my health and well-being.

    I stopped drinking in January 2024 after doing Dry January, and I didn't miss it at all. Giving up alcohol improved my energy, mental clarity, and focus. I started playing golf, padel, and running, and found new hobbies that filled the gap left by drinking. Now, I'm more focused on my professional goals and fitness.

    I still attend work events, but I choose not to drink or have a 0% beer instead. When I'm on holiday or have downtime, I enjoy having alcohol. However, I've come to realize that it's not worth restarting because it benefits me so much to be sober. I've found a new lifestyle and social circle that doesn't revolve around drinking, and I feel more in control of my life.

    I still go back to the UK occasionally, where drinking is a big part of the culture, but I don't feel pressured to drink as much as before. I've learned to enjoy other aspects of life and have found new ways to socialize without relying on alcohol.