Britain’s Young £700 Million Tech CEO Reportedly Preparing to Quit the UK for Dubai
Herman Narula, the 37-year-old British tech CEO and co-founder of metaverse company Improbable, whose business has been valued at over £700 million, is now reportedly preparing to relocate to Dubai ahead of upcoming UK tax changes. His possible move is already sparking debate within the tech and investment community, highlighting renewed concerns over the UK’s competitiveness for high-growth founders and the growing appeal of Dubai as a global hub for innovation, finance, and large-scale technology ventures.
A Defining Moment for Britain’s Entrepreneurial Landscape
One of the UK’s most successful young tech founders is reportedly in the process of leaving the country and moving operations to Dubai. The entrepreneur, whose company is currently valued at approximately £700 million, has long been viewed as a standout example of Britain’s thriving digital innovation scene. Their potential relocation is being closely watched across the business community, not only because of their individual success but because of what it may signal about the broader direction of the UK’s business climate.
The move appears to be connected to anticipated tax reforms that could significantly affect founder shareholdings and capital gains. While no official statement has been released by the CEO, multiple advisory sources suggest the decision is already in motion.
The Rise of a New Tech Power Player
The CEO built their company from a lean start-up into a globally scaling enterprise in under a decade. The business specialises in automation solutions and next-generation software infrastructure, securing clients across Europe, North America, and Asia. The company distinguished itself by prioritising innovation and scalability over splashy marketing, and by reinvesting profits into research and product development.
Industry analysts have often praised the founder’s approach as disciplined, strategic and future-driven. Their leadership style — collaborative, data-led and relentlessly focused on product quality — made the company highly attractive to institutional investors and global corporate partners.
The Growing Frustration Among UK Founders
The possible relocation underscores a central concern among high-growth entrepreneurs: uncertainty. While many founders will tolerate high taxes when the system is predictable, rapid policy shifts create operational instability, particularly for leaders whose wealth is tied to illiquid equity rather than cash.
Regulatory pacing is another factor. Many founders say the UK environment — though supportive in early-stage development — becomes slow and bureaucratic at scale. Meanwhile, major competitor markets offer faster pathways to expansion.
Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, recently remarked:
"When political and tax conditions shift, wealth creators go where they can best preserve and grow long-term value."
His comment reflects a wider sentiment — not an isolated case.
Why Dubai Has Become the Magnet for High-Growth Founders
Dubai’s business ecosystem has transformed dramatically over the last decade. It now markets itself not just as a luxury destination, but as a global centre for technology, finance and investment. The region offers zero income tax, streamlined company formation, and direct access to high-growth markets across the Middle East, Africa and Asia.
Beyond policy incentives, Dubai has built something far more strategic: a full-scale innovation economy. The city has launched specialised tech free zones, founder-focused visa pathways, public investment initiatives, and strong regulatory clarity in sectors like fintech, AI and Web3.
Unlike Switzerland or Monaco, Dubai is not merely attracting wealth — it is attracting operations, talent pools, R&D hubs, and venture investment networks.
The Broader Signal for the UK’s Economic Future
The departure of one high-profile CEO does not equate to a mass exodus. However, it does serve as a visible signal that the UK must reconsider how it positions itself in a highly competitive global environment. At stake is not just capital retention, but the country’s ability to retain ambition.
According to analysis reviewed by CEO Today, the number of high-growth founders exploring overseas relocation has risen year on year, particularly among younger entrepreneurs who prioritise agility, global reach, and stability in regulatory environments.
The message is clear: innovation follows the path of least resistance. If one leading entrepreneur leaves, others will watch closely.
Conclusion: A Choice Between Leading and Following
This situation highlights a central reality of the modern business world: economic influence flows where the environment best nurtures growth. Dubai is actively designing a future-ready business ecosystem. The UK is still debating its approach. Whether the government responds decisively may determine whether the next generation of British world-class entrepreneurs will scale their companies at home — or elsewhere.
The founder’s move does not just represent a personal decision. It marks a moment of reflection for British competitiveness itself.
