In Abu Dhabi, where the sun shines even in winter, King Juan Carlos celebrates his 88th birthday. He has lived far from Spain for several years, but it is here, on Nurai Island, that his closest family gathers. His daughters, the infantas Elena and Cristina, never miss such an occasion, and the grandchildren arrive with their partners. This year, the mysterious Sofia Khan joined them—Juan Urdangarin’s girlfriend, visiting the Emirates for the first time to meet her partner’s grandfather.
The celebration is modest, but the atmosphere is charged. The lingering question is whether the king will return to Spain. After the release of his autobiography and rumors of a possible comeback, interest in the monarch has only grown. Meanwhile, Infanta Cristina has already taken a step toward change, buying an apartment in Barcelona and leaving Switzerland for good. It’s possible that Juan Carlos himself might soon follow.
Family ties
There’s a special atmosphere on the island today. Despite their busy lives, the infantas Elena and Cristina always make time for their father. Their support is especially important to the king, who has lived away from his homeland for years. The grandchildren, notably Pablo and Miguel Urdangarin, come not alone: their partners, Johanna Zott and Olympia Beracasa, are becoming part of the family circle.
However, the most attention is drawn to Sofia Khan. This is her first introduction to Juan Carlos’ family, and her presence has sparked much discussion. Family traditions here blend with new faces, and each guest adds their own touch to the celebration.
Froilán at the center of attention
This year, a special role is played by Felipe Juan Froilán de Marichalar y Borbón — the king’s favorite grandson. For the second year now, he has been living in Abu Dhabi, where his mother sent him after a string of scandals in Madrid. Despite his status as a ‘host’ in the Emirates, Froilán hasn’t hidden his dissatisfaction with life far from Spain.
A recent family lunch in Madrid became an opportunity for candid confessions: Froilán is tired of the monotony and bureaucracy that come with his work in the Emirates. He admits he feels cut off from his usual life, and sports and healthy living can’t replace time spent with friends or his familiar hobbies.
Life in exile
For Juan Carlos and his family, exile has been not only a forced measure but also a test of resilience. Each of them copes with separation from Spain in their own way. The king, despite his age, remains interested in life and hasn’t lost hope of returning. His daughters and grandchildren support him, while also seeking new stability for themselves.
Celebrating a birthday in Abu Dhabi has become more than just a family tradition—it’s a ritual that helps maintain unity. At the same time, each year adds new details to this story: new faces, new hopes, and new challenges.
The future remains uncertain
The question of Juan Carlos’s return to Spain is still unresolved. His autobiography and public appearances continue to fuel interest in the issue. Despite disagreements and distance, the family continues to support the monarch. Grandchildren, their partners, and even new family members are becoming part of this complex dynastic mosaic.
While the king celebrates his anniversary far from home, his circle remains hopeful for change. Everyone present at the Abu Dhabi celebration contributes to the family’s story, which continues no matter what.
