This week’s Into-yous features British expat Tam Khan

Tell us a little about yourself
I’m a professional mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter and the founder and owner of Contender MMA Center – UAE, the first MMA dedicated facility in the region. The gym houses top-of-the line training equipment, world-class teachers and provides MMA training and techniques that are battle proven and utilised by professional fighters worldwide. Our Motto is “Real Fighter. Real Training.” However, we don’t want to intimidate the casual fitness enthusiast, so we also offer non-combat classes to people looking for something different.The gym is open to all levels and disciplines. We have children’s classes as well as ladies only classes. It’s a great way to get into shape and learn something new. Check out our website. You can also follow me on twitter.

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here?
I came to Dubai in July 2008. I had visited many times on holiday and just loved the vibe. However, I noticed that MMA wasn’t very big in
the region. So, I had an idea to bring it to the UAE and the rest of the region. I also wanted to start working with and breeding local fighters. I took the risk and it’s worked out well so far.

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
Only Dubai.

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai
Just always keep striving to achieve your goal, because if you’re ever going to make your dream come true, Dubai is the place to make it possible.

What surprised you most about Dubai?
How relaxed the way of life is. It’s very frustrating at times as the pace is much slower than I’m used to back home in London.

What area do you live in?
Business Bay.

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
Sheikh’s Palace.

Your favorite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far
Khali Walli, haha.

Your least favorite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai
Yalla.

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
I’ve had so many, but the most memorable experience has to be when Jean Claude Van Damme contacted me to train at my facility and ITV UK came along and filmed the entire session for his documentary/show. It was EPIC! He was so humble and is a martial artist’s childhood hero. All the students were like kids in a candy shop.

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
Japan. I have never been to that part of the world, so I must visit it soon.

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My mum, she is my world.

What is your favourite restaurant in Dubai?
Caramel (to sound cool). Hardees (the truth).

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
Fresh milk. It’s so hard to get good milk. After a day or so it goes bad. UK milk is so fresh, I love it!

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR). It has everything you need for people visiting – bars, restaurants, beach, atmosphere, etc. Just a great place to see.

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The team at Expat Echo Dubai would like to feature you in our Into-yous section

Please complete our 5 minute interview and submit your answers along with a profile picture (in JPEG format).