Ebny Developments Partners with Prime Hospitality to Launch Prime Residence Heliopolis
The project is part of a strategic plan for expansion and diversification.
4 min
As part of its strategic and innovative vision in real estate development and its efforts to diversify its real estate portfolio across key areas in Egypt, Ebny Developments has signed a cooperation protocol with Prime Hospitality Group to manage and operate the “Prime Residence Heliopolis” project.
This innovative project is located in one of the most vital areas on Thawra Street, near several major axes in Heliopolis and Cairo Airport. The “Prime Residence Heliopolis” project marks Ebny Developments’ second launch in 2024, following the launch of the “Waves Complex” project in May 2024, within just three months.
Dr. Abdullah Kamel, Chairman Ebny Developments, said during a press conference held on the sidelines of signing the protocol that the Prime Residence Heliopolis project is one of the company’s innovative projects that offers a new idea and service to its customers within the framework of the company’s plan to provide a different real estate product that provides its residents with the highest levels of quality and the best services, noting that the project is a luxurious “residential hotel” that provides a new and required service in this vital area near Cairo International Airport and a number of entertainment centers surrounding the project, which makes it an ideal destination for investment in this type of units, explaining that this project comes within the framework of offering a number of diverse projects between residential, administrative, commercial, medical, hotel and entertainment with an investment volume exceeding 10 billion pounds according to the expansion plan set by the company.
Kamel stressed that the vision of “Ebny Developments” since its launch in the Egyptian market is based on a basic concept and a clear vision in building unique sustainable urban projects that are in line with the surrounding environment and provide the highest standards of quality and sustainability to preserve the investment value of these projects according to a scientific system and studies adopted by the company for the needs of the market, in addition to the company’s keenness to choose its partners in the work from the best and strongest specialized expertise in the real estate market in all sectors, which is what made the company sign a cooperation protocol in managing Prime Residence Heliopolis project with “Prime Hospitality”, which is considered one of the first and largest companies specialized in equipping and managing residential and hotel properties and vacation homes, indicating that under this protocol, the group will undertake the hotel management of the project to ensure achieving the highest investment return from the project.
Mohamed Islam, the company’s CEO, added that the real estate market is currently witnessing a remarkable development in the type of real estate units that the customer needs due to the change in the customer culture and dealing with real estate as one of the most important safe investment tools that also achieves large profitable returns. Therefore, the company has taken it upon itself, in line with its strategic vision in the Egyptian market over the past years, to be unique in the type of projects it offers to the market, noting that the Prime Residence Heliopolis project is considered one of these distinguished projects in terms of the services and privileges of the project in addition to the diversity in the areas of its units that meet the needs of customers, indicating that the project is a luxurious hotel complex with a height of 5 floors on Thawra Street, Almaza – Heliopolis.The project contains a variety of hotel residential units ranging from studios, one-bedroom apartments and two-bedroom apartments with areas ranging from 35 to 95 meters, under the management of Prime Hotel Management Group.
For his part, Khaled Al Sayyad, founder and chairman of Prime Hospitality expressed his happiness to cooperate with Ebny Developments, as it is one of the companies with pioneering and innovative ideas in the field of real estate development, in addition to the company’s trust and commitment to its clients, pointing out that this cooperation is a strong addition to the company and enhances its expansion plan in the Egyptian market, which seeks to sign a number of contracts with new partners to reach 1,000 hotel residential units in preparation for launching some new projects in Egypt, including the Administrative Capital and Heliopolis, in addition to the current areas managed by the company in Downtown, Sheraton Residences, New Cairo, 6th of October, Sheikh Zayed, Mohandessin, Katameya, 10th of Ramadan, Sharm El Sheikh, the Red Sea and the North Coast. He pointed out that Prime Hotel Management Group is the first and largest company specialized in equipping, managing and renting residential properties and vacation homes, whether for individuals or companies, and achieving the highest investment return from them, especially with the group’s experience in the integrated management of these hotel residential projects, noting that the group seeks to change the levels and concepts of hotel apartments in Egypt and maximize the return on investment and operating efficiency for property owners and investors and provide distinguished hospitality services to tenants with integrated hotel services with international specifications.
According to Mr. Moataz Amin, Managing Director and CEO of Prime Group, Prime Residence project is a new addition to the “Prime Hospitality” brand and is the sixth project under this brand.
For his part, he stated that the Prime Residence project increases the group’s operational capacity, which reaches approximately 450 hotel residential units, to enhance the group’s position in the Egyptian market as the first and largest company specialized in managing hotel apartments and vacation homes in Egypt.
A Tuscan-style mansion in Newport Coast has sold for $30 million, with its multi-level infinity pool and ocean views at the center of the deal. The 13,206-square-foot property features luxury amenities including a private theater, glass-walled spaces, and a lower-level lounge illuminated by the pool above, highlighting continued demand for ultra-prime real estate along California’s coastline.
Dubai Investments has broken ground on Al Vista in Meydan Horizon, a major mixed-use development by its subsidiary DIR, featuring residential, commercial and retail components, with construction now underway and completion targeted for Q1 2028.
Alta Real Estate Development confirmed construction is progressing across its portfolio as Dubai’s property market continues to show resilience, supported by strong demand, population growth and long-term planning, with the city maintaining its position as a global investment hub despite broader uncertainty.
Abu Dhabi real estate is getting smarter. Investors are moving away from off-plan hype and doubling down on ready, income-generating properties—prioritizing stability, steady returns, and long-term value.
2 min
Abu Dhabi real estate market’s current trends indicate a preference for completed, income-generating assets over more speculative opportunities, says a new report.
Investors placing greater weight on asset quality, risk management, and income visibility this year, said a report based on data from Driven | Forbes Global Properties, a leader in the UAE’s luxury real estate market.
Increased activity in ready properties through 2025 had already signaled this direction, and a tightening supply pipeline, combined with sustained demand in established communities, is expected to support continued price stability and reinforce this shift towards fundamentals-led investment, it said.
The company released the report, marking the official opening of its new Abu Dhabi headquarters.
The data from its Abu Dhabi 2025 report and Q1 2026 observations, said in 2025, total real estate transactions reached AED94 billion in the first nine months, with volumes increasing 48 percent year-on-year. Foreign direct investment by individuals totaled AED6.2 billion over the same period, with capital inflows from 97 nationalities.
Residential prices grew approximately 52 percent in off-plan properties and 39 percent in ready units between 2021 and 2025, while gross rental yields reached 7.4 percent.
Early 2026 activity suggests the market is building on that base but shifting in character.
Commenting on the data, Abdullah Alajaji, CEO of Driven Properties, said: “The 2025 data reflects the strength of the market, and our decision to establish a dedicated presence in Abu Dhabi aligns with that momentum. What we’re seeing in early 2026 is capital becoming more selective, with investors prioritizing assets that deliver visible income and long-term value. This points to a more mature and disciplined market environment, which Abu Dhabi is well positioned to support.”
Abdallah Alhusari, Director of Abu Dhabi Branch at Driven Properties, commented: “The opening of our new office reflects our strategic commitment to Abu Dhabi and its long-term growth trajectory. The capital is attracting a high-quality investor base that values stability, strong planning, and sustainable growth, and having a dedicated presence on the ground allows us to serve that demand more closely while contributing to the next phase of Abu Dhabi’s real estate story.”
In expanding to Abu Dhabi with a new branch, Driven Properties reflects its broader strategy of deepening its footprint in key growth markets across the UAE while continuing to strengthen its advisory capabilities for investors, developers, and end users.
The company’s findings were presented during a market briefing by Abdullah Alajaji, CEO of Driven Properties, Abdallah Alhusari, Director of Abu Dhabi Branch at Driven Properties, and Omar Shehata, Head of Broker Management at Aldar. The session was attended by media, industry stakeholders and distinguished guests.
New research suggests that bonuses make employees feel more like a mere cog in a wheel.
The sports-car maker delivered 279,449 cars last year, down from 310,718 in 2024.
Recent regional developments are weighing on sentiment, not fundamentals, in the UAE property market, with activity slowing but demand holding steady. Off-plan continues to drive transactions, leasing is stabilizing, and buyers are becoming more selective, as price adjustments reflect a market correction rather than distress. The shift signals a more measured, strategy-led phase shaped by uncertainty—but not weakened demand.
2 min
betterhomes says recent regional developments are impacting sentiment rather than fundamentals in the UAE property market, with activity slowing but underlying demand remaining intact.
Speaking during a market update webinar hosted last week, betterhomes’ leadership team, including its CEO, Head of Off-Plan and Capital markets, and Head of Leasing, said recent geopolitical events should be understood as a short-term pause in decision-making rather than a structural shift in the market.
The disruption has slowed decision-making, but not derailed the UAE property market, with off-plan continuing to drive activity, leasing demand beginning to stabilize, and buyers becoming more selective.
While transaction volumes softened in March, this was attributed to a combination of geopolitical and short-term factors, including Ramadan, Eid, school holidays and recent weather-related disruptions, rather than a deeper change in market direction. Daily life and business activity in Dubai remain largely unaffected, with the market response described as measured rather than disruptive.
Off-plan continues to underpin market activity, accounting for approximately 70 per cent of total transactions over the past 12 months. The segment remains aligned with Dubai’s long-term growth agenda, with buyers continuing to favor newer developments, stronger locations and higher-quality product.
Across the market, buyer behavior is becoming more selective, with increased focus on value, positioning and long-term potential. Asking prices have adjusted by approximately 13 per cent, reflecting a market correction following a sustained period of growth rather than signs of distress.
In the leasing market, enquiries declined by around 40 per cent in early March before showing signs of stabilization, indicating a short-term pause rather than a sustained drop in demand. At the same time, an increase in accidental landlords has added supply, contributing to a more competitive rental environment.
betterhomes said the current phase reinforces the importance of strategy, pricing discipline and professional guidance, particularly as the market transitions into a more considered and selective cycle.
The message from the webinar was clear: uncertainty has reshaped behavior, not demand, placing greater emphasis on informed decision-making and realistic expectations.
New research suggests that bonuses make employees feel more like a mere cog in a wheel.
Two coming 2027 models – the first of the “Neue Klasse” cars coming to the U.S. early next year – have been revealed.
Jeddah’s residential market hit a record in 2025, with 30,500 transactions worth SAR36.6bn, while Dammam emerged as a fast-growing, affordable hotspot and Riyadh slowed amid affordability pressures. Long-term demand remains supported by population growth and Vision 2030, with supply and reforms set to drive market recalibration.
3 min
Residential property sales in Jeddah set a new annual record, with 30,500 transactions collectively worth SAR36.6 billion (US$9.75 billion) in 2025, says real estate advisory and property consultancy, Cavendish Maxwell.
Total sales values rose by almost 15.4% year-on-year in Jeddah, where the average transaction reached SAR1.2 million (US$320,000), according to Cavendish Maxwell’s 2025 KSA Residential Real Estate performance report.
Dammam – the rapidly emerging property hotspot in KSA’s Eastern Province – secured sales worth SAR10.7 billion (US$2.85 billion) across 9,500 transactions last year – an increase of almost 30% in values and 19% in volumes.
In Riyadh, buyers purchased 56,600 residential units in 2025, with a total sales value of SAR96.2 billion (US$25.65 billion). While Riyadh’s average transaction value reached a new high of SAR1.7 million (US$450,000), sales declined 31% compared to 2024.
Siraj Ahmed, Director, Head of Strategy & Consulting at Cavendish Maxwell, said: “KSA’s three major residential markets – Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam – delivered contrasting performances in 2025. Jeddah showed resilience with its highest sales volumes for several years and is expected to maintain stable growth in the future. Dammam, where property is more affordable compared to other cities, was the standout performer and is poised for sustained growth supported by competitive pricing and robust economic activity in the region.
“In Riyadh, affordability constraints and elevated financing costs led to a decline in purchasing power and buyer activity. Although transactions were down year-on-year, population growth, urbanization and housing initiatives should support long-term market demand. We expect a recalibration of the market as new supply, the 5-year rent freeze and White Land Tax reforms make property more competitively priced and lead to a recovery in market activity.
“External factors including oil market volatility and geopolitical tensions of course warrant close monitoring, but Saudi’s residential market remains well positioned, supported by strong demographic drivers, ongoing infrastructure investment and a continued commitment to Vision 2030.”
Inventory and future supply
Riyadh’s residential supply continued to expand last year, when 13,000 new units came to the market bringing the total inventory to 1.93 million. Around 63,000 homes are scheduled for completion in 2026 and 2027, but actual deliveries could be lower, as was the case in 2025.
“The expansion in supply is further supported by the recent rise in White Land Tax, which encourages landowners to develop empty plots of land and accelerate delivery timelines,” said Ahmed. “The full impact of this reform will likely materialize through this year and beyond, with the gap between demand and supply gradually narrowing, in turn easing price pressure and enhancing affordability.”
Jeddah’s residential property inventory is now just under 1.1 million, after the completion of 4,000 units last year. The city has a pipeline of 18,000 new units this year and another 22,000 in 2027, by which time total residential stock is projected to reach 1.14 million. However, as seen in Riyadh, actual completions may fall short of original forecasts.
Dammam delivered 500 units last year, bringing its total to 430,000. Around 15,000 new homes are expected by the end of 2027. The city’s residential sector is expected to become even more competitive, giving buyers more choice and better bargaining power
Sales prices and rental rates
Property prices in Riyadh rose last year, with apartments reaching SAR6,245 (US$1,713) per square meter and villas SAR5,640 (US$1,500), an increase of 6.6% and 9.7% respectively. There were similar hikes in the rental market, with apartments up just over 10% and villas 9.6%. The 5-year rent freeze, introduced last September to address affordability concerns, led to early signs of rent moderation in Q4.
In Jeddah, apartment prices increased by 1.2% to SAR4,385 (US$1,170) per sqm, with villas up 3.2% to SAR5,185 (US$1,382). The rental market saw a mixed performance: the average cost of leasing an apartment jumped 4.7%, while villa rents were down by 0.7%.
Over in Dammam, apartment prices rose 5.2% compared to 2024 with villas up 2.8%. Apartment rents were up 4.1% and villas 2.1%.
Saudi Arabia’s new foreign ownership law
KSA’s new foreign ownership law, introduced in January, allows non-Saudi individuals and companies to invest in Saudi real estate.
The changes represent a strategic recalibration of KSA’s approach to foreign investment. By clearly defining who can buy, where, and under what conditions, KSA has transformed its real estate market from a restricted asset class into a legitimate investment destination.
Historically, non-Saudi residents could buy property under a restrictive framework, typically limited to one residential unit and subject to regulatory approval. Now, non-Saudi residents, non-residents, and premium residency holders can acquire property within designated zones. Outside these areas, ownership is limited to residents, who are generally allowed one property for personal use. In Makkah and Madinah, ownership remains tightly controlled and largely limited to Muslims under specific conditions, in line with religious and regulatory considerations.
Saudi companies with foreign shareholders can own real estate, but their eligibility is governed by regulations aligned with the Capital Market Authority, meaning listed companies can participate subject to compliance. Unlisted Saudi companies generally have more flexibility, including acquiring real estate for operational needs such as staff housing or business activities.
New research suggests that bonuses make employees feel more like a mere cog in a wheel.
Paine Schwartz joins BERO as a new investor as the year-old company seeks to triple sales.
A Tuscan-style mansion in Newport Coast has sold for $30 million, with its multi-level infinity pool and ocean views at the center of the deal. The 13,206-square-foot property features luxury amenities including a private theater, glass-walled spaces, and a lower-level lounge illuminated by the pool above, highlighting continued demand for ultra-prime real estate along California’s coastline.
2 minA wraparound multi-level pool with ocean views is the star of a stone Tuscan-style mansion in Newport Coast, California, that just sold for $30 million.
Not that the property itself is anything but spectacular. The rugged 13,206-square-foot mansion stands on a half-acre lot on Pelican Point Drive, featuring stone arched loggia, brick-laid barrel ceilings, a glass-walled breakfast room, a theater room with hand-painted murals and a cavernous lounge lit by the blue waters of the lower pool outside, according to a video listing of the property.
The upper-level main pool is encased in a stone outer wall and hugs the house on two sides, fronting the covered patio that extends from the home, with a bridge that crosses to a staircase leading to the lower deck. It also makes for a great diving board.
The ocean-facing side of the pool has an infinity edge that drops to a second, lower-level pool surrounded by a flagstone deck. That pool shares a wall with the below-grade lounge, with three aquarium-like windows that illuminate the billiards table, speakeasy bar and adjacent wine cellar.
The property first came to market in July 2025 asking $49.998 million with brothers Josh Altman and Matt Altman of Douglas Elliman, who were not available to comment. The price was cut several times and it was asking $31.88 million when it went into contract in February. The deal closed in the final days of March.
The sellers are the heirs of the owners, who purchased the home in 1993, according to records accessed through PropertyShark. They could not immediately be reached for comment.
The buyers could not immediately be identified.
The home is part of the Pelican Crest community south of Newport Beach in Southern California and was completed in 2003. The property also includes a koi pond and Venetian fountain at the entrance, a five-car attached garage, a private guest house, old-growth olive trees and a shaded platform for outdoor dining or yoga.
The views stretch from Newport Harbor to Catalina Island off Los Angeles along a full stretch of California coastline illuminated by city lights.
Many of the most-important events have slipped from our collective memories. But their impacts live on.
Parts for iPhones to cost more owing to surging demand from AI companies.
Dubai Investments has broken ground on Al Vista in Meydan Horizon, a major mixed-use development by its subsidiary DIR, featuring residential, commercial and retail components, with construction now underway and completion targeted for Q1 2028.
< 1 minDubai Investments breaks ground on Al Vista, its landmark mixed‑use development in Meydan Horizon.
Developed through its wholly‑owned real estate subsidiary, Dubai Investment Real Estate (DIR), Al Vista is a large‑scale mixed‑use development comprising residential, commercial and retail components within a unified masterplan.
The ground‑breaking ceremony was held in the presence of Khalid bin Kalban, Vice Chairman and CEO, Dubai Investments, Obaid Salami, General Manager, Dubai Investment Real Estate along with other senior representatives and the contractor for the project.
As part of the milestone, DIR also signed the main construction contract with JV Hourie Paramount appointing the contractor to deliver the project in line with the approved execution plan.
Commenting on the ground-breaking, Obaid Salami, General Manager of Dubai Investment Real Estate, said: “Al Vista represents an important addition to DIR’s portfolio and reflects a disciplined approach to development, anchored in quality, execution certainty and long‑term value creation. With main construction now underway, DIR is committed to delivering well‑planned, high‑quality developments in key growth locations across Dubai, positioning Al Vista to emerge as a defining mixed‑use destination upon completion.”
Located within Meydan Horizon, one of Dubai’s most sought‑after mixed‑use districts, Al Vista comprises a 39‑storey residential tower featuring 312 apartments, including one‑, two‑ and three‑bedroom units, alongside a 19‑storey commercial tower offering approximately 120,000 sq. ft. of shell‑and‑core office space, complemented by integrated retail components. The development is designed to support a connected urban environment, with a comprehensive range of lifestyle and recreational amenities serving both residents and commercial occupiers.
Construction is advancing as scheduled, with planned completion targeted for Q1 2028.
New research suggests that bonuses make employees feel more like a mere cog in a wheel.
Chris Dixon, a partner who led the charge, says he has a ‘very long-term horizon’
Alta Real Estate Development confirmed construction is progressing across its portfolio as Dubai’s property market continues to show resilience, supported by strong demand, population growth and long-term planning, with the city maintaining its position as a global investment hub despite broader uncertainty.
2 minAlta Real Estate Development, a boutique Emirati developer shaping Dubai’s evolving skyline through a portfolio of distinctive residential projects, confirmed that construction activity continues across Alta’s portfolio, reflecting continued confidence in Dubai’s long-term growth trajectory.
The update comes as Dubai’s real estate sector continues to demonstrate resilience despite heightened regional attention in recent weeks. Dubai recorded more than $250 billion in real estate transactions in 2025, reinforcing the sector’s role as a key pillar of the emirate’s economy.
Market activity remains steady across the city, with buyer enquiries, property viewings and transactions continuing despite global uncertainty. Industry activity continues to be supported by strong population growth, long-term infrastructure investment and the strategic vision outlined in the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040, which continues to shape the city’s development and global competitiveness.
Dubai’s real estate market has historically demonstrated an ability to navigate economic cycles, recovering from previous periods of volatility while continuing to attract international capital and long-term global interest.
Giuseppe Noto, Chief Executive Officer of Alta Real Estate Development, said: “Dubai has firmly established itself as a global hub for business and investment, and that position continues to support strong fundamentals in the real estate market. In our conversations with international owner-occupiers and long-term market participants, the city consistently stands out for its connectivity, regulatory stability, and long-term vision. That confidence is reflected not only in sustained market demand, but also in the pace at which development across the city continues to move forward.”
Alta affirmed ongoing construction across its projects, reflecting the strength, resilience, and long-term vision underpinning Dubai’s continued growth.
Mohammad Al Tayer, Deputy Managing Director at Alta Real Estate Development, added: “Dubai has always been built with long-term vision. Those of us who have grown with the city understand the strength of its foundations and the resilience that continues to shape its growth. That resilience is reflected in the continued momentum we see across the real estate market and in our commitment to keep building for the future.”
Alta Real Estate Development’s leadership is available to provide further commentary on Dubai’s real estate market, investor sentiment, and the city’s long-term development outlook.
Many of the most-important events have slipped from our collective memories. But their impacts live on.
Americans now think they need at least $1.25 million for retirement, a 20% increase from a year ago, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual
Emaar Properties reports record 2025 performance, with property sales reaching AED 80.4 billion and revenue up 40% year-on-year, as shareholders approve a 100% dividend payout of AED 8.8 billion.
2 min
Emaar Properties PJSC (DFM: EMAAR) today held its Annual General Meeting (AGM), where the Board of Directors reviewed the company’s financial performance for 2025 and outlined its strategic priorities for the period ahead.
During the AGM, shareholders approved a 100% dividend payout, amounting to AED 8.8 billion (US$ 2.4 billion), reflecting the company’s commitment to delivering sustained value to its shareholders and in line with the dividend policy announced in December 2024. The meeting also included the approval of the auditor’s report for 2025, together with the Board’s report on the company’s activities and financial position.
Emaar’s financial results for 2025 highlighted another year of strong operational momentum and growth across its key business segments. The company recorded its highest-ever property sales of AED 80.4 billion (US$ 21.9 billion), representing a 16% increase compared to 2024. Emaar’s revenue backlog from property sales reached AED 155 billion (US$ 42.1 billion), providing strong visibility for future revenue recognition.
Total revenue for 2025 reached AED 49.6 billion (US$ 13.5 billion), reflecting a 40% year-on-year increase, while EBITDA grew by 33% to reach AED 25.6 billion (US$ 7 billion). Net profit before tax reached AED 25.7 billion (US$ 7 billion), marking a growth of 36% compared to the last year.
Emaar’s diversified portfolio continued to drive performance across its core businesses, including property development, malls, hospitality, leisure, and international markets. The company remains focused on delivering its projects as scheduled while maintaining a strong emphasis on quality, customer experience, operational excellence, and long-term sustainable growth.
Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar, said: “Our 2025 performance reflects the strength of the UAE’s leadership and the clear vision that continues to shape Dubai as one of the world’s most dynamic and trusted destinations for investment and growth. This environment enables companies like Emaar to plan with confidence, innovate, and deliver long-term value. I would also like to recognize the dedication of our teams whose commitment to quality and execution continues to drive our success.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Emaar will continue to introduce new developments and lifestyle destinations while further enhancing its operational capabilities and expanding its footprint across key markets.
Many of the most-important events have slipped from our collective memories. But their impacts live on.
Interior designer Thomas Hamel on where it goes wrong in so many homes.
S&P: no liquidity pressure on UAE developers despite regional tensions, with manageable debt levels and strong funding positions.
< 1 min
S&P Global expects no liquidity pressures on four of its rated developers amid the US-Israel and Iraq war.
The companies rated include Dubai-listed Emaar Properties, PNC Investments, Omniyat Holdings and Damac Real Estate Development.
Developers were active in the sukuk and debt capital markets to raise funds to finance land acquisitions in 2025-2026, the rating agency said in a new report.
Damac and Omniyat each issued $600 million sukuk in February and March 2026, respectively, while PNC Investments and Omniyat issued $1.25 billion and $900 million, respectively, in 2025.
“Debt maturities remain quite manageable in 2026 for the companies without the need to raise new funding,” S&P stated.
Capital expenditure (capex) needs for pure developers are limited, while investments in small community projects are expected to generate recurring revenue.
“Damac, Omniyat and PNC investments are negligible over our forecast horizon (2024-2027),” the report added.
However, Emaar has sizable, planned annual capex plans of AED10-11 billion ($2.72-3 billion) in 2026-27, much of which is earmarked for Dubai Creek Mall, the Dubai Creek Tower, the development of residential units for leasing and investments in mall assets, especially the expansion of Dubai Mall.
“We think a significant portion of the company’s investment remains flexible as some projects can still be delayed, if needed,” the report said.
Although it is still early to draw definitive conclusions, S&P expects investment decisions to be recalibrated or postponed for all developers.
Commitments for assets nearing completion are likely to proceed, but companies with flexibility will prioritise liquidity and cash flow over new
investments and land purchases, the report said.
Parts for iPhones to cost more owing to surging demand from AI companies.
Following the devastation of recent flooding, experts are urging government intervention to drive the cessation of building in areas at risk.
AI is reshaping how people buy and sell property, offering smarter insights and faster decisions—while raising concerns over accuracy and potential bias in high-stakes real estate deals.
4 min
Artificial intelligence is opening new avenues of information to home buyers, sellers, and renters. It’s changing the way people shop for real estate—for better or worse.
Consumer use of AI will shape more deals as the use of large-language model platforms such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini become common. In a survey of 1,000 U.S. adults, Realtor.com found that 82% of respondents used AI platforms for real estate insights. The majority of those surveyed said it was a positive use of their time. (News Corp, which owns Barron’s, also runs Realtor.com through its Move subsidiary.)
The platforms are the latest in a long line of digital tools the general public can now use in a home search or sale. Information such as sale price or tax history, which today can take seconds to track down, was harder to locate before real estate data was digitized and listings moved online.
“The beauty of what AI has done is that it’s expanded that world even more,” says Ines Hegedus-Garcia, a managing partner at the southern Florida-based Avanti Way Realty. “The fear is that it doesn’t always get it right.”
That research is critical when it comes to bigger-ticket purchases, he notes. Access to more information can give a buyer or seller valuable insights—but that data can also be wrong in ways that aren’t immediately obvious or can reinforce prior assumptions. That can have real-world consequences, with thousands of dollars potentially on the line.
When I tested platforms such as Gemini and ChatGPT on places I’ve lived, they mixed verifiable facts—such as 311 complaints or air quality concerns—with incorrect or vague assertions. In one instance, one warned that noise from a bar a mile away—well out of earshot—could make it hard to sleep.
It’s not uncommon to encounter incorrect details: OpenAI pointed Barron’s to an FAQ page titled “Does ChatGPT tell the truth?” Those using the tool should “use ChatGPT as a first draft, not a final source,” the website advises. “Always verify quotes, data, technical information or references to external documents.”
In an Instagram video, celebrity real estate agent Ryan Serhant detailed a multimillion-dollar deal that was nearly derailed because an AI platform told both the buyer and seller they were getting ripped off.
“The buyer said ‘is $50 million too high?’ And so then the model leaned cautious and then obviously found reasons that it was overpriced,” he told Barron’s. “The seller said: ‘is $50 million too low?’ The model leans opportunistic and then found upside.” Both parties eventually came back to the table after Serhant’s video went viral, he says.
For its potential pitfalls, there are plenty of helpful ways consumers use AI models in property searches. “Clients are smart—they know that the final answer they get from ChatGPT is not the end-all, be-all,” says Texas Re/Max agent Todd Luong.
House hunters are using the tools to narrow down neighborhoods, price ranges, and other details before they set foot in a home, says Carrie Lysenko, chief technology officer at brokerage eXp.
“Buyers and sellers are coming to the table being a lot more educated than they used to,” she says. Proactively slimming down ones’ options saves everyone time, she adds: “It potentially goes from seeing 100 homes to narrowing down [to] 20 homes.”
AI models can be helpful for gaming out hypotheticals, such as estimating monthly mortgage payments. “A lot of AI-assisted conversations quickly gravitate toward constraints,” says Josh Weisberg, senior vice president of AI at housing technology company Zillow Group. “Things like budget and affordability are often at the center, and people commonly combine multiple requirements at once.”
A Google spokesperson noted in an email that Gemini can help brainstorm a home’s layout using floor plans, parse listings for potential issues, and estimate the return-on-investment of home renovation projects, among other uses.
Luong, the Texas agent, says clients find the tools useful for visualizing home improvement projects, including suggestions for paint colors or flooring. “Now they don’t always have to ask me for suggestions,” he says.
He also expects them to use the platforms as a sounding board to gut-check market information and prices. He has started proactively asking such models questions so he can be prepared for what they might be telling his clients, he says.
AI can be helpful in digesting large quantities of text, such as homeowners association documents, says Ben Clark, a Utah-based agent and president of the National Association of Buyers’ Agents. “It doesn’t replace your obligation or your responsibility to read through HOA documents, but you can certainly use it as a tool,” he says.
Real estate companies have been building their own AI tools. Zillow offers virtual staging tools on certain listings and integration with ChatGPT. Homes.com parent company CoStar Group recently launched a home search chat bot that users can talk to or text. Redfin, owned by the mortgage company Rocket, lets users peruse homes with help from a virtual assistant. All three stocks are down more than the Dow Jones Industrial Average this year due in part to housing market headwinds.
Gaming out a home’s fair value is one place where large platforms can leave something to be desired, agents say. Housing market conditions can change long before comparable sale information becomes public, agent Serhant notes.
Buyers and sellers should be careful what they ask for—and how they ask it. Consumers’ platform of choice can easily fill the affirming role family, or a lawyer, might have in the past, Serhant says: “The response frames assumptions based on how the question is asked, and then it optimizes to give you a coherent answer, not an objectively correct one.”
In the latter case, “there may literally be nothing wrong with the house,” says Clark, the Utah agent. “But it’s going to find something because it knows you want it to.”
Two coming 2027 models – the first of the “Neue Klasse” cars coming to the U.S. early next year – have been revealed.
After three decades in Manhattan, event designer Michelle Rago transformed a 100-year-old Sears kit house in Lambertville, New Jersey into a modern riverside retreat—lifting the entire structure six feet and redesigning it for entertaining, light, and timeless character.
4 min
After 30 years of living in Manhattan, event designer Michelle Rago decided to look beyond the city for a house, ultimately settling on Lambertville, the leafy New Jersey town where she spent part of her youth.
“I was touring the house across the street when my current home popped up on the MLS. My realtor looked at me and said, ‘Michelle, turn around…this house is now available and it’s fabulous,’” she recalled. “I literally jumped up and down, got tears in my eyes and we ran across the street. It was love at first sight. I made an offer the next day and the rest is history.”
After the excitement subsided, Rago was left with the realization that she had serious work to do.
“The house is a Sears & Roebuck kit, and over 100 years old. It had wonderful bones but the rooms were small, the flow stilted, and the addition added in the 1980s was very dated,” she said. “The windows needed to be updated and there were no porches on the back of the house which abuts the Delaware River.”
The mail-order kit house was a distinctly American architectural phenomenon from the early 20th century, when families could purchase an entire home from a catalog.
Having designed hundreds of parties in grand interiors around the world throughout her career, it was easy for Rago to envision what her new home could be.
“I wanted a nod to a London townhouse while leaning into my version of a modern Arts and Crafts feel. I wanted space to relay tranquility and be the perfect spot for entertaining,” she explained. “Apartment living never afforded me a formal dining room or a glamourous bedroom suite and bath so those desires were big drivers.”
The renovation became both a technical and emotional undertaking. The entire structure was lifted six feet and raised onto stilts, becoming the first officially lifted house in Lambertville’s history, turning the project into a community-wide event and future precedent. Rago relocated the house to a new plot of land in Lambertville, sitting directly across the river from New Hope, Pennsylvania.
To bring life to the house—which sits on land that once operated as a working farm and general store, with 150 year old trees still anchoring the property—Rago turned to Bryan O’Sullivan Studio, the London and New York City-based designers behind global luxury hospitality projects such as Claridge’s, the Connaught and Belmond.
Designed entirely around entertaining, flow and light, the house was expanded with a new formal dining room, grand entry foyer, powder room, service spaces, back porch, river-facing balcony, scullery and wine room. The staircase was re-engineered to create vertical drama, and the entire first floor was rebuilt post-lift to improve circulation. Outside, the grounds were reimagined into a park-like setting for gatherings, with a freestanding garage transformed into a late-night dance shack, a wink to Rago’s party-loving spirit.
Throughout construction, measures were taken to protect both the legacy and the landscape, including the preservation of a 150-year-old tree and the decision to return part of the property back to public use for the towpath.
“There was very little about doing a gut renovation of a 100-year-old property that could have been anticipated. The original construction and additions over the years were reflective of the times but certainly didn’t meet the state building codes of today or address the challenges of climate change. But its history is its heart, and makes every challenge worth it,” Rago said. “I am fascinated by the fact that George Washington and his troops were loitering on my stoop. I feel as if I have been entrusted with that history and that informed many of my choices.”
Mansion Global caught up with Rago, 61, who shared a more in-depth look at the renovation.
The one tip I’d offer to someone undertaking a renovation is… it is essential to stay true to what your passions are and ignore trends. Be true to what you enjoy and how you spend your time. Don’t worry if white marble is the “suggested” material for an island or if televisions are expected to be installed everywhere. Design a home and experience that is a reflection of how you spend your time.
The biggest challenge I faced during the renovation was… I did this project on my own so the biggest challenge was trusting my gut and teaching myself about the process. Navigating state codes and the reason something may not be possible takes patience and creativity.
My favorite room after the renovation is… when push comes to shove, my bedroom and bath are my sanctuary. There is nothing more indulgent than waking up on my meticulously designed bespoke bed and being surrounded by the art I have curated while the fire is cracking to my favorite music, cup of tea in hand.
The most dramatic change is… the six-foot addition that runs the length of the house to accommodate a foyer powder room, formal dining room, scullery and elevator.
The one expense I didn’t expect was… When the house was lifted I did not anticipate that the original brick and mortar on the first floor would be compromised. It was immediately apparent that the entire first floor would need to be rebuilt. Although overwhelming at the time, it did create the opportunity for me to rethink the footprint of the first floor.
I decided to renovate instead of buying a different/turnkey house because… it’s not possible for me to accept things as they are. A spec house would honestly be my worst nightmare.
The renovation ended up costing… the purchase of the Sears and Roebuck home was $825,000, and to lift it was another $100,000.
Parts for iPhones to cost more owing to surging demand from AI companies.
Saudi-based Dar Al Majed Real Estate has increased its credit facilities with Banque Saudi Fransi (BSF) to SAR684.5 million, up from SAR550 million, to support the expansion and development of its real estate projects. The amended financing agreement will run until December 31, 2028, according to a filing on Tadawul.
< 1 min
Saudi-based Dar Al Majed Real Estate Company has announced that it has signed an addendum to the credit facilities agreement previously concluded with Banque Saudi Fransi (BSF).
The addendum includes increasing the credit limit of the facilities granted to the company from SAR550 million ($146.4 million) to SAR684.5 million ($182.2 million).
This funding will be mainly used for Dar Al Majed’s expansion plans as well as development of its real estate projects, said the company in its filing to Saudi bourse Tadawul.
The amended financing will run until December 31, 2028, it stated.
The original facilities agreement with Banque Saudi Fransi was signed in November 2023, and disclosed in the company’s prospectus, said the statement.
The new addendum extends that agreement and sets a credit ceiling for project funding, it added.
Paine Schwartz joins BERO as a new investor as the year-old company seeks to triple sales.
Dubai-based architectural and engineering consultancy Access Consult is entering a new phase of growth after delivering 800+ projects across the UAE over the past 27 years. The firm’s fully integrated in-house model supports developers and public sector clients with end-to-end services from concept design and approvals to construction supervision and project handover, while its digital delivery systems help accelerate timelines and streamline project execution across the region.
2 min
Access Consult, a Dubai-based architectural and engineering consultancy, is marking a new phase of growth after delivering more than 800 projects across the UAE over the past 27 years. The firm has evolved into a full-service design and engineering consultancy supporting developers and public sector clients with end-to-end delivery, from concept design and authority approvals through to construction supervision and handover.
Access Consult provides fully integrated architectural, structural, MEP, interior design, quantity surveying, project management, and supervision services, all delivered through in-house teams. This one-stop model allows the company to manage projects from A to Z while maintaining direct control over quality, timelines, and regulatory compliance. With a strong footprint across the UAE and a focus on Dubai, Access Consult has signed 10 new projects, completed three major developments, and grown its team by approximately 30 to 35% in the past year alone. This momentum supports the nation’s We the UAE 2031 vision for future-ready development, as 400,000+ units are under construction or planned for the next four years in Dubai alone.
The company’s portfolio features developers across residential, commercial, retail, healthcare, and mixed-use projects, serving private and public sectors. The firm works closely with government stakeholders, including Dubai Municipality and Dubai Electricity and Water Authority. Landmark developments across Dubai include the Edition Hotel Dubai, DSO Radison Blu Hotel, ALTA Tower, Guzel Towers, the Famous Marina Mosque and many more. Access Consult also supports major organisations such as National Bonds and regional developers across residential and commercial real estate, while also working on selected international projects across the EMEA region.
Arch. Mohamed Salah Seguen, CEO at Access Consult member of Excellence Consortium, said: “At Access Consult, we are very deliberate about how we grow. As a mid-sized consultancy, every project and every client relationship matters. Our focus is to deliver quality design, practical engineering, and dependable supervision from the first concept through to handover. Clients choose Access Consult for our fully in-house delivery, strong regulatory expertise, and speed without compromising standards. Looking ahead, our vision is to strengthen our position as a trusted UAE consultancy while expanding our capabilities to support more complex, design-led developments across the region.”
A core differentiator for Access Consult is its fully digital approach to design coordination and project delivery. By managing architectural and engineering workflows through integrated digital systems and overlapping design phases, the company typically reduces design and approval timelines by 30 to 50%. During construction, its structured supervision processes and on-site engineering teams help shorten delivery schedules by a further 20 to 30%, depending on project scope and contractor performance. This approach is reinforced by Access Consult’s position within a wider group of specialist companies, giving clients access to additional expertise across project management, façade engineering, and technical consultancy when required.
Building on nearly three decades of operation in the UAE, Access Consult continues to position itself as a trusted partner for developers seeking streamlined project delivery, regulatory expertise, and integrated design services under one roof. Looking ahead, Access Consult is prioritising continued investment in digital delivery processes while strengthening its presence across high-growth residential and commercial developments. Longer term, the company will broaden its business model to include project development and management services, building on its technical foundation and market experience.
With more than 800 projects completed and a growing multidisciplinary team, the firm remains focused on shaping practical, high-quality built environments that support the region’s evolving development landscape.
Parts for iPhones to cost more owing to surging demand from AI companies.
TownX has partnered with Regeny to install 29 EV charging spots at Luma Park Views in JVC—the highest number in a single Dubai tower—while Green Parking will manage retail parking across the development’s 20,000+ sq ft retail space.
< 1 min
Dubai-based real estate developer TownX has partnered with Regeny, a leading electric vehicle (EV) charging solution provider, to operate 29 state-of-the-art EV charging spots at Luma Park Views, Jumeirah Village Circle.
With this partnership, Luma Park Views will now feature the highest number of EV charging slots in the city, reflecting TownX’s commitment to sustainability and the future of transportation. This expansion is a significant step towards promoting a greener and more sustainable urban environment.
TownX has also appointed Green Parking, the industry’s leader in retail parking management, to oversee the parking operations for over 20,000 square feet of retail space within the development. The partnership ensures efficient and innovative management of parking facilities while enhancing the overall retail experience for visitors.
Haider Abduljabbar, Executive Director at TownX stated: “Today’s announcement is a monumental step for both TownX and the city of Dubai. With the highest number of EV charging spots at Luma Park Views, we’re taking bold strides in supporting the future of clean transportation. This move underscores our dedication to sustainability and the reduction of our carbon footprint, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a green and innovative future.”
Anish Racherla, CEO, Regeny commented: “We are thrilled to collaborate with TownX to install and operate EV charging spots at Luma Park Views. This partnership not only supports the growing demand for EVs in Dubai but also aligns with our mission to provide reliable and eco-friendly charging solutions. Together, we are paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable Dubai.”
Paine Schwartz joins BERO as a new investor as the year-old company seeks to triple sales.
Cement sales in Saudi Arabia fell to 4.28 million tons in February, down 10.5% year-on-year and 16.3% month-on-month, mainly due to seasonal slowdown during Ramadan, according to Al Rajhi Capital.
< 1 min
Cement sales volumes across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia fell in February on both an annual (10.5% decline) and monthly basis (16.3%) to 4.28 metric tonnes, thus reflecting softer demand mainly due to Ramadan season, said a report by Al Rajhi Capital, a leading financial services provider in the kingdom.
Yamama Cement recorded 11.6% y-o-y growth, commanding 15.2% market share in the month of February, it stated.
Al Rajhi Capital said the clinker inventory too fell by 0.3% m-o-m to 42.7MT with Southern cement holding the highest inventory (20 months of LTM avg. sales).
This is mainly driven by Ramadan related seasonality which is expected to persist for the majority of the March month. Last year, the impact was largely absorbed in the month of March.
Among the coverage companies of Al Rajhi Capital Research, only the Yamama Cement recorded y-o-y growth of 11.6%. while all other companies posted y-o-y decline.
Geographically, the Eastern region was the sole gainer that reported growth of 1.5% y-o-y, mainly driven by Eastern Cement (+16.7% y-o-y). While the Northern and Southern region sales plunged 21.8% and 16.1%, respectively, it stated.
On its clinker inventory, Al Rajhi Capital said it fell by 0.3% m-o-m to 42.7 MT as of February 2026. Among its coverage companies, Riyadh Cement holds the lowest inventory levels (4 months of LTM average sales vs. industry average of 11 months), followed by Saudi Cement as well as Yamama Cement at 6 months, and Qassim Cement at 9 months, said the financial powerhouse in its report.
Najran Cement has an inventory of 13 months, followed by Arabian Cement and Yanbu Cement at 14 and 15 months, respectively. Southern Cement had the highest inventory level of 20 months, it added.
Paine Schwartz joins BERO as a new investor as the year-old company seeks to triple sales.
Kuwait’s real estate market surged in February, with transactions up 20.4% year-on-year to 577 deals and total value jumping nearly 70% to KD615.83 million. Residential led activity, while commercial real estate saw exceptional growth. Investment assets remained strong, even as industrial and retail segments recorded declines.
2 min
The local real estate market witnessed remarkable quantitative and qualitative growth in February, with 20.4 percent increase in the number of deals, equivalent to 98 transactions, and 69.64 percent increase in value, amounting to KD252.82 million year-on-year compared to February 2025.
The newspaper obtained a copy of the monthly report from the Real Estate Registration and Documentation Departments at the Ministry of Justice, revealing the registration of 577 real estate transactions worth KD615.83 million in February this year, compared to 479 transactions worth KD363.01 million within the same period last year.
This growth is attributed to the increased transactions in the commercial, investment, residential and nursery sectors, while transactions in the crafts and retail sectors declined.
The residential sector ranked first in terms of the number of transactions, accounting for 61.8 percent of total monthly trading with 357 deals valued at KD169.32 million, compared to 334 deals valued at KD138.04 million within the same period last year.
This is 6.9 percent increase in volume (23 additional deals) and 22.6 percent increase in value (KD31.28 million), reflecting the growing value of private transactions year-on-year amidst regulatory developments in the sector.
The investment sector also recorded significant annual growth, with 158 transactions valued at KD164.31 million.
This is 27.4 percent increase in the number of transactions (34 additional deals) and 12.8 percent increase in value (KD18.76 million), compared to 124 transactions valued at KD145.55 million in February last year, indicating the sector’s continuous attractiveness to investors.
The commercial sector achieved outstanding annual performance, registering 255 percent quantitative growth (23 additional transactions) and 224 percent qualitative increase (KD127.25 million).
The total number of commercial transactions reached 32, valued at KD183.94 million, compared to nine transactions worth KD56.7 million in February 2025.
This shows the rising demand for commercial real estate since the beginning of the year. On the other hand, the industrial real estate sector experienced a remarkable decline, with 77.7 percent decrease in the number of transactions (seven fewer transactions) and 92.4 percent decrease in value (KD19.85 million). Only two transactions were recorded, valued at KD1.63 million, compared to nine transactions worth KD21.48 million in February last year.
The retail sector witnessed a decline of 66.6 percent and a qualitative decline of 20.9 percent, recording only one transaction worth KD1.5 million, compared to three transactions worth KD1.24 million during the same period last year. The nurseries sector recorded 21 transactions worth KD79.28 million, and the warehouses sector recorded six transactions worth KD 15.85 million, compared to no transactions recorded in both sectors in February last year.
Parts for iPhones to cost more owing to surging demand from AI companies.
