The UAE continues to rank as one of the most preferred global destinations for real estate investment, according to a new international survey commissioned by Arada.
The UAE Property Investment Index, conducted by US-based Penta Group, placed the country ahead of major global markets, including the United States and the United Kingdom, highlighting sustained investor interest despite recent regional challenges.
Strong investor demand
The survey found that 56% of global investors showed serious interest in the UAE property market, the highest among all markets studied.
This compares with 54% for the United States, 41% for the United Kingdom, 28% for France and 27% for Spain.
The research covered 689 experienced property investors across 12 key markets between April 1 and April 23.
Regional interest
The UAE was especially popular among investors in nearby countries. It ranked among the top three destinations for 91% of Indian investors, 92% of Egyptian investors and 85% of Saudi investors.
In Europe, the UAE was the top choice outside the home country for French (63%), German (60%) and Swiss (57%) investors.
Key investment drivers
Strong returns were identified as the main driver for global investors, cited by 38% of respondents. This was particularly important for Australian (57%), Spanish (56%) and British (41%) investors.
Safety and stability were highlighted as key factors for Chinese (65%) and German (58%) investors. Respondents also pointed to the UAE’s regulatory framework and property laws as factors supporting confidence in the market.
Ease of purchase and ownership was noted by 34% of investors overall, rising to 57% among Saudi investors and 41% among Egyptian investors.
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said: “These findings confirm what we have observed in our own sales performance – that despite recent headwinds international investors recognise the UAE’s structural advantages in regulatory maturity, track record of performance, and stable economic fundamentals. Continued adaptation has been key to the UAE’s rise as a global investment destination – whether it’s the pandemic or the financial crisis, this country has demonstrated time and again that it adjusts fast and better than anywhere else in the world.”
Market outlook
The findings come as the UAE continues to expand major infrastructure projects, including the Dhs 34 billion Dubai Metro Gold Line, a planned commercial air taxi network, and the Dhs 6 billion Fourth Federal Corridor aimed at improving transport links between emirates.
Arada said the results also support its long-term strategy as it expands its real estate portfolio, which exceeds Dhs 130 billion, across the UAE and international markets including the United Kingdom and Australia.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
