The UAE’s booming real estate market mirrors its thriving economy, drawing global investors with its strategic location, diverse property portfolio, and favorable policy reforms. This surge in demand for residential and commercial properties underscores the country’s steady economic growth, world-class infrastructure, and a population that continues to expand.
The UAE’s real estate market offers a wide range of options, catering to every income group, making it an attractive investment destination. Pakistani expatriates, in particular, have found the real estate business in the UAE to be highly lucrative, with many working as independent agents or with established agencies. These agents play a crucial role in the sale and rental of properties, while valuation services provided by companies are vital in guiding investment decisions.
Anjum Fazil, a prominent figure in the UAE real estate market, established her agency in 2005 after nearly five years of experience in the industry. Her agency’s success is attributed to a deep understanding of the market, a commitment to client satisfaction, and a steadfast adherence to integrity and professionalism. Fazil emphasizes the UAE’s strategic location as a global business hub and its business-friendly environment as key drivers of the high demand for properties.
Her agency offers comprehensive property management services, including tenant administration, maintenance coordination, diligent rent collection, and adherence to property upkeep and local regulations. The UAE’s laws have also evolved to facilitate expatriate property ownership, with long-term residency visas for investors and expanded freehold ownership in designated areas.
Fazil predicts continued demand for short-term rentals, driven by platforms like Airbnb, due to the growth in tourism and business travel. She notes that the UAE’s property market, traditionally dominated by investors from India, Pakistan, the UK, and Saudi Arabia, has seen increased interest from China and Russia in recent years. The promise of substantial rental returns and potential capital appreciation makes the UAE a compelling investment destination.
Bilal Moti, founder of Windmills Group in 2016, has also made a significant impact in the UAE’s real estate sector. His company, specializing in valuations and business consulting, has become a leading professional services firm with branches in Dubai, Ajman, and Abu Dhabi. Moti’s firm conducts detailed property valuations, considering factors such as location, size, and income generation potential, among others.
Despite facing challenges like competition, high client expectations, and the need for compliance with local standards, Windmills Group has thrived under Moti’s leadership. The firm’s success is built on integrity, precise valuations, fast turnaround times, and top-notch service, making it a trusted partner for banks, government authorities, and corporate clients. In 2023, Dubai recorded the highest real estate transactions in a decade, further highlighting the market’s dynamism.
Moti, who also has a passion for semi-classical Pakistani and Indian music, balances his professional achievements with personal interests, showing that there is more to the real estate business than just numbers.
Fatima Akram, a young and skilled realtor, has been part of the UAE’s real estate scene for the past three years. After moving to Dubai with her family 20 years ago, Akram started her career with a small company before joining the renowned agency Aeon and Trisl. Her experience in both off-plan and secondary-market deals has allowed her to help clients find their dream homes and make sound investments.
Akram enjoys the dynamic nature of Dubai’s real estate industry, which she finds both challenging and rewarding. She appreciates the opportunities that living and working in Dubai have afforded her, allowing her to build a successful career while staying true to her roots and values.
As Dubai’s real estate market continues to grow, more people from diverse backgrounds are investing in properties across the UAE. The market’s high investment turnover and unprecedented demand in recent years suggest that the UAE remains a prime destination for real estate investment.
