Patel was born in the UK on 16 August 1980, he now lives in London, UK. He attended University of Hertfordshire.Patel appeared in many music videos, including the remix of the classic Bollywood song "Kya Khoob Lagti Ho", which also featured Udita Goswami. In 2006, he made his Indian cinema debut in the film 36 China Town. The film was a success at the box office. Subash K Jha commented "Upen Patel as the Casanova in the casino makes an unusual stylish debut. He dances with confidence and holds his own, even among the accomplished ensemble of actors." His second film, Namastey London, was released on 23 March 2007 and also did well at the box office.