
H.E. Ahmed Al Ketbi tours UAE developers showcasing Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai, and more at Global Property Expo
The UAE outperforms global markets in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly in the real estate sector. In 2023, the UAE ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa and 16th globally for FDI inflows, with a record USD 23 billion in foreign investments, according to the UNCTAD World Investment Report 2024. Dubai alone attracted AED 39.1 billion (USD 10.6 billion) in FDI during the first half of 2023, across over 600 projects, making it the top city in the world for greenfield FDI for the second consecutive year (Dubai FDI Monitor, 2024).
Speakers at a key conference session, 'The Modern Oasis – Residential Investment in the Middle East', featuring Khaled Assaf (Marjan) and Dr Andrew B. Jones (Richmind), moderated by Louissa Thomas (Levella Global) reiterated that the region's integrated developments, forward-thinking urban planning, and investment incentives, are attracting international attention.
The speakers mentioned that the UAE's strong performance is bolstered by tax-free income, 100% foreign ownership in designated zones, long-term residence visas tied to property investment, and government-backed urban development initiatives. In comparison to mature Western markets, the UAE offers higher yields, faster capital appreciation, and a favourable regulatory environment — solidifying its position as a global investment leader.
UAE Pavilion Highlights:
DAMAC Properties
Established in 2002, DAMAC is one of the Middle East's leading luxury real estate developers with projects across the GCC, Middle East, Canada, Maldives, and the UK. Offerings at the Expo included multi-million square-foot residential communities, branded residences (e.g. Roberto Cavalli), and investment properties eligible for the UAE Golden Visa – such as SGD 400,000 one-bedroom apartments in Dubai with zero tax and freehold titles.
Emaar Properties
One of the world's most valuable real estate developers, Emaar presented landmark residential, retail and hospitality developments. With a net asset value of over USD 48 billion, the company is renowned for its design excellence, build quality, and lifestyle integration.
Marjan LLC
As Ras Al Khaimah's leading master developer, Marjan is setting the benchmark in large-scale, sustainable urban development. From Al Marjan Island – a luxury resort destination – to RAK Central, a smart and sustainable business hub, Marjan offers prime plots for hospitality, commercial, and residential investments. The upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort will be the Middle East's first integrated casino resort.
Richmind
Richmind unveiled its flagship project OYSTRA – an architectural icon designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. Located on Marjan Island and positioned steps away from the upcoming Wynn Casino, OYSTRA combines serene beachfront living with high-energy entertainment. With its 360° infinity pool, curated retail and wellness experiences, and limited inventory, OYSTRA offers exceptional lifestyle and investment potential. The project is drawing attention from global investors seeking high ROI and long-term capital appreciation.
Vakson Group
With more than 55 years of expertise in Dubai real estate, Vakson offers development, brokerage, leasing, facilities management and advisory services. The group supports a wide range of asset classes, from luxury residential, to staff housing, and industrial real estate.
The UAE Pavilion was a highlight at the Global Property Expo, offering investors access to some of the Middle East's most visionary developments.
About Global Property Expo | Singapore 2025
The Global Property Expo, hosted by JLL, is a premier international real estate event that took place between July 18-20, 2025, at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore. This exclusive platform connects investors, developers, and industry leaders, featuring a curated exhibition of residential properties from Australia, Japan, the Middle East, the U.S., and Europe. Two conference tracks will explore sustainable investment, PropTech, and smart city innovations, alongside networking and wealth creation insights. As Asia Pacific investment in real estate surges, this event positions Singapore as a gateway to global residential real estate opportunities. Learn more at globalpropertyexpo.com.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Filipino Times
16 minutes ago
- Filipino Times
UAE-based Filipino civil engineers gather for PICE midyear assembly; highlights community milestones
Filipino engineers in the UAE gathered in Abu Dhabi for the Midyear Assembly of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE-UAE), held under the theme 'One PICE, One Vision: Promoting specialization, empowering membership, future-ready civil engineering professionals.' Around 130 professionals attended the event, which featured technical presentations, panel discussions, the oath-taking of new members, and recognition ceremonies aimed at advancing their career development. Engr. Joeper Famorcan, 2025 PICE-UAE Chapter President, emphasized the importance of continuous learning and collective achievement. He said the gathering served both as a platform for technical discussion and a celebration of the growing strength of the Filipino engineering community in the UAE. 'These things speaks our aspiration as a chapter to be united under one vision to encourage continuous learning and recognition,' Engr. Famorcan said in his opening remarks. Meanwhile, H.E. Ambassador Alfonso A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE delivered his keynote address and led the ceremonial acknowledgment of 2025 Civil Engineering Special Professional Licensure Examination (SPLE) passers. New PICE members also took their oath before Engr. Frederick Francis Sison, 2025 PICE National President. In his inspirational message, Engr. Sison said he joined the event to understand the current practices and challenges of Filipino engineers abroad and expressed his commitment to support the professionals. 'You're not just engineers working abroad, you are ambassadors of Filipinos in the engineering field. You show the world our skills, our grit, our values, and our heart. Your work speaks louder than any slogan. You make us proud, you inspire us, and we learn from you,' he said. Other highlights included the conferment of specialist members, recognition of newly approved life members, and a panel forum moderated by Engr. Blesil Apduhan, 2025 PICE-UAE First Vice President. Inspirational messages were also delivered by Engr. Rafael C. Lontoc, PPO-UAE Chairman and Arch. Woderick M. Pareja, Bayanihan Council Chairman.


Arabian Business
2 hours ago
- Arabian Business
Saudi Arabia announces new property ownership law
Saudi Arabia has published the full details of its property ownership law for non-Saudis in the official gazette Umm Al-Qura on Friday, following Cabinet approval earlier this month. The law will take effect 180 days from publication and replaces previous foreign property ownership legislation issued under Royal Decree No. M/15 in 2000, the Saudi Gazette reported. The legislation grants non-Saudis — including individuals, companies, and non-profit entities — the right to own property or obtain other real rights over real estate within designated geographic zones to be determined by the Cabinet. Non-Saudis can own property in Saudi Arabia under new law published in official gazette These rights include usufruct (beneficial use), leaseholds, and other real estate interests, but will be subject to controls and restrictions based on location, property type, and usage. Ownership remains prohibited in certain locations and regions, particularly in Makkah and Madinah, except under conditions for individual Muslim owners. The law states that all real estate rights that were legally established for non-Saudis prior to the regulation taking effect will be preserved. The Council of Ministers — upon a proposal by the Real Estate General Authority and with the approval of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs — will define the allowable zones for foreign ownership and set upper limits on ownership percentages and durations for usufruct rights. Foreign individuals legally residing in Saudi Arabia may own one residential property outside restricted areas for personal housing purposes. This provision does not apply to Makkah and Madinah. The regulation includes provisions for corporate ownership. Non-listed companies with foreign shareholders, as well as investment funds and licensed special-purpose entities, will be permitted to acquire real estate throughout the Kingdom, including in Makkah and Madinah, provided the ownership supports operational needs or employee housing. Listed companies and investment vehicles may also acquire property in line with Saudi financial market regulations. Diplomatic missions and international organisations can own premises for official use and residence of their representatives, subject to Foreign Ministry approval and reciprocity conditions. Non-Saudi entities must register with the competent authority before acquiring property. Ownership or real rights become valid only after formal registration in the national real estate registry. The law introduces a real estate transfer fee of up to 5 per cent for transactions involving non-Saudis. Sanctions for violations include fines up to SAR10 million and, in cases such as falsified information, the forced sale of the property with proceeds remitted to the state after deductions. A committee under the Real Estate General Authority will be formed to investigate violations and impose penalties. Decisions of this committee can be appealed to the administrative courts within 60 days. The law repeals a prior rule that prohibited GCC citizens from owning property in Makkah and Madinah, standardising rules for all non-Saudi entities under a single framework. The executive regulations, which will detail implementation mechanisms and specify geographic boundaries and conditions, are expected to be issued within six months.


Gulf Business
3 hours ago
- Gulf Business
Foreigners owning property in Saudi: The rules you need to know
Image: Getty Images/ For illustrative purposes Saudi Arabia has officially published the full text of a new law regulating real estate ownership by non-Saudis, following cabinet approval earlier this month. The legislation, released in the Umm Al Qura official gazette on Friday, July 25, will come into effect 180 days from publication and marks a significant shift in the country's real estate and investment policy, Read- The new law grants non-Saudis, including individuals, corporations, and non-profit organisations, the right to own property or obtain other real rights within designated zones to be defined by the Council of Ministers. These rights include usufruct (beneficial use), leaseholds, and other interests, but will be subject to geographic and usage-based restrictions. Importantly, all legal property rights held by non-Saudis prior to the law's enactment will remain protected. Key restrictions remain Despite the liberalization, the law maintains a firm stance on property ownership in the holy cities. Ownership remains prohibited in Makkah and Madinah, except under specific conditions for individual Muslim owners. Foreign individuals legally residing in the country may own a single residential property outside restricted zones for personal housing purposes. A central provision mandates that the Council of Ministers, based on recommendations from the Real Estate General Authority and with approval from the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, will designate the permissible zones for foreign ownership. These zones will include limits on ownership percentages and the duration of usufruct rights. Foreign-owned non-listed companies, licensed investment funds, and special-purpose entities may acquire real estate throughout the Kingdom, including in Makkah and Madinah, provided the ownership is for operational needs or employee housing. Listed companies and investment vehicles are permitted to own property in line with Saudi financial regulations. Diplomatic missions and international organisations will also be allowed to own property for official use, subject to Foreign Ministry approval and reciprocity. Mandatory registration and oversight Non-Saudi entities must register with the relevant authorities prior to acquiring real estate. Legal ownership or rights will only be recognised following registration in the national real estate registry. To enforce compliance, the law introduces a real estate transfer fee of up to 5 per cent for transactions involving non-Saudis. Violations could incur fines of up to SAR10m, with penalties including forced sales in severe cases such as the use of falsified documents. Proceeds from such sales will be transferred to the state after necessary deductions. A committee under the Real Estate General Authority will be established to monitor violations and impose sanctions. Affected parties can appeal committee decisions to the administrative courts within 60 days. Repeal of previous rules for GCC citizens The new law also revokes a previous ban on real estate ownership by Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens in Makkah and Madinah, thereby aligning the rules for all non-Saudi individuals and entities under a single legal framework. Executive regulations, including geographic boundaries and implementation procedures, are expected to be issued within six months. The law replaces the previous foreign ownership legislation issued under Royal Decree No. M/15 in 2000.