Sir Mo Farah has made a permanent move with his family from the UK to Qatar, despite the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The renowned athlete has resided in Doha since 2024 and has now officially changed his residency status.
The 43-year-old, along with his wife Tania and their four children, including stepdaughter Rihanna, twin girls Aisha and Amani, and son Hussein, relocated to Doha, the capital of Qatar, following his retirement from professional running. Recent reports from The Sun indicate that Farah has transitioned his residency status from the UK to Qatar for his company, which holds assets valued at £3.9 million and paid £375,000 in tax and VAT in 2023. By shifting his residency to Qatar, the four-time Olympic gold medalist will be exempt from certain taxes.
This move comes amidst the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly between Israel, the United States, and Iran, which has also affected Qatar. Despite the turmoil, Farah and his family have decided to make Qatar their permanent home, despite the dangers witnessed during previous conflicts involving the US and Iran.
Having relocated to the UK from Somalia as a child and spending seven years in Portland, Oregon, during his athletic career, Farah explained that the move to Qatar was primarily for the well-being and privacy of his children away from the public spotlight. In a recent interview with The National, he expressed his contentment with the decision, emphasizing the importance of spending quality time with his family now that he has concluded his running career.
Farah highlighted the peaceful environment in Qatar compared to London, emphasizing his desire to support his children’s interests and provide them with a safe and enjoyable upbringing. The family’s move to Qatar was not initially planned but evolved naturally, aligning with their goal of finding happiness and creating lasting memories together.