As ex-Prince Andrew prepares to leave the Royal Lodge in Windsor, speculation about his next chapter is growing. Though his upcoming move to Sandringham appears as a practical downsizing, royal commentators believe it could signal something far more significant. Some suggest Andrew may even be considering a move out of the United Kingdom entirely.
Ex-Prince Andrew might be happy living ‘somewhere where the media is muzzled,’ expert
With the former prince set to vacate his longtime Windsor residence, royal historian Andrew Lownie believes the relocation could be a temporary stop on a far more dramatic path.
Speaking with Mirror about ex-Prince Andrew’s situation, Lownie suggested that, despite the move being framed as modest, the ex-royal is unlikely to be living a humble lifestyle. According to the historian, Andrew will continue to receive substantial support, staff included, and will not suddenly find himself living without privilege.
But the bigger prediction — one Lownie cautions is speculative — is that Andrew may ultimately leave Britain altogether. He suggested that if legal pressures intensify, the former Duke of York could seek refuge abroad, perhaps following the example of Spain’s former King Juan Carlos.
The United Arab Emirates is a region Andrew knows well, the historian noted. During his time as Britain’s trade envoy in the early 2000s, the ex-prince forged close ties with the UAE’s current president. Moreover, Andrew’s daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, have also been frequent visitors to the Gulf, attending major conferences and social events. Their recent appearances have only fueled speculation that the family maintains significant connections in the region.
According to Lownie, Andrew may find the Middle East appealing not only for its familiar connections but for its media environment. He suggested that Andrew might feel more comfortable “somewhere where the media is muzzled.” This may also allow him the deference he once enjoyed as a senior royal, something public opinion in Britain makes increasingly difficult. Polling reflects the dramatic decline in his reputation, with only a small fraction of the U.K. viewing him favorably.
Furthermore, royal author Andrew Morton echoed that possibility in a separate interview on Times Radio. He predicted that Andrew “will probably live somewhere abroad” by this time next year.
