
Unique Properties and AIR forge srategic joint Venture to disrupt the Real Estate Brokerage Market with AI Innovation in the UAE
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Unique Properties, one of the UAE's most prominent real estate agencies, has announced a landmark joint venture with AIR (AI Realtor), an AI-native proptech innovator. As part of the agreement, Unique Properties will invest USD 20 million into AIR over the next two years to fuel the development and deployment of next-generation technologies in the real estate space.
The partnership marks a bold leap forward for the region's property sector, blending years of market leadership with cutting-edge artificial intelligence to reshape how real estate is bought, sold, and experienced.
A Market Ready for Innovation
This strategic alliance comes as the UAE cements its position as a global leader in real estate innovation. Progressive government policies and a world-class digital ecosystem have created ideal conditions for meaningful disruption, particularly in the brokerage space.
Where many global markets are still grappling with outdated infrastructure and data silos, the UAE has taken decisive steps to unlock the full potential of digital transformation. The deregulation of the brokerage sector has ushered in a more competitive landscape; full public access to real estate data has empowered both professionals and consumers; and, most notably, the government has succeeded in fully digitising the property transaction process, from initial search to final ownership transfer.
Against this backdrop, the partnership between Unique Properties and AIR could not be timelier.
Where Human Expertise Meets AI Intelligence
Rather than replacing real estate agents, AIR's proprietary technology is designed to enhance them. By providing real-time insights, predictive analytics, and intelligent automation, the platform enables agents to perform at a higher level, closing more deals, managing their time more effectively, and offering their clients a superior, data-led service. In turn, clients benefit from a more transparent, trusted, and personalised property journey.
Unique Properties brings to the table a scale of operations, depth of market understanding, and a longstanding reputation that few others can rival. AIR, on the other hand, introduces an entirely new paradigm, where human expertise is augmented by artificial intelligence to elevate every aspect of the transaction.
Speaking about the joint venture, Arash Jalili, CEO of Unique Properties, said: ' We've always been at the forefront of the UAE real estate market, driven by a commitment to excellence and innovation. This joint venture marks the beginning of a new era, where technology and human insight come together to elevate the property experience. Partnering with AIR allows us to stay ahead of the curve, setting new benchmarks for how real estate is transacted, advised, and experienced in this region.'
Milad Monshipour, Founder & CEO of AIR, added: "This is the first time the world will see a fully AI-native real estate platform developed in partnership with one of the most established brokerages in the region. It's an innovation born in the UAE, but its impact will be felt far beyond it."
Together, Unique Properties and AIR are set to usher in a new era for real estate in the UAE, one where technology doesn't just support the industry, it propels it forward.
About Unique Properties
Since 2008, Unique Properties has proudly established itself as a leading real estate agency in Dubai, earning multiple prestigious awards and boasting over 17 years of industry experience. The agency's expertise lies in uncovering the finest investment opportunities in the market.
As trusted partners of renowned developers such as Emaar, Nakheel, Dubai Holding, Omniyat, H&H Development, Damac, and Majid Al Futtaim, Unique Properties is committed to transforming the real estate sector by crafting sophisticated spaces that set new benchmarks with each step. These partnerships ensure access to the best properties and investment options that Dubai has to offer.
In its pursuit of excellence, Unique Properties has recently relocated to a larger, more modern space, reflecting its growth and dedication to providing superior services. The agency specialises in primary and secondary market transactions, with a dominant presence in the ultra-luxury segment. Having set multiple records, including the highest price per square foot for a Jumeirah Bay Island plot, it is now finalizing another landmark deal, further cementing its dominance in Dubai's ultra-luxury market.
Offering a comprehensive suite of services, including interior design, property management, PRO and conveyancing, holiday homes, and investment advisory, Unique Properties is committed to excellence, providing clients with tailored real estate solutions and exclusive access to high-value opportunities in Dubai's dynamic property market.
Unique Properties continues to redefine the standards of real estate, creating exceptional living and investment opportunities that stand the test of time. The journey to finding the perfect property starts with Unique Properties, where innovation, quality, and client satisfaction are at the heart of everything they do.

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


Khaleej Times
an hour ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Grant or loan? Housing assistance for citizens explained
Navigating government housing assistance can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're building your first home, need a prefabricated home, or want to renovate and maintain your existing home, understanding the difference between grants and loans is the first step. Here's what you need to know and how to determine if you qualify. The Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment continues to support Dubai citizens with housing services through two main options: housing grants and housing loans. Each option is designed to meet the needs of applicants based on their income, marital status, and living conditions. According to the Establishment's website, its mission is to provide housing services to those eligible, prioritising and addressing their needs, ensuring a decent life for them, and preserving the characteristics and benefits of the residential communities it establishes. Who Can Apply? Dubai citizens can apply for a grant or loan, subject to several eligibility criteria. Housing grants are generally provided to widows, divorcees with children, people of determination, and low-income families who do not own a property registered in their name in Dubai or other emirates. The applicant must be an Emirati holding a Dubai passport, and the property must be located in Dubai. On the other hand, housing loans are typically granted to citizens with a stable income who are able to repay the loan over a period of time. Applicants must be at least 22 years old, employed in the government or private sector, or self-employed, with proof of income. They must not have previously received housing support from federal or local entities. Married applicants, especially those with children, are given priority for both types of support. In some cases, separated or divorced individuals may apply jointly or individually, depending on the custody status and court rulings. According to WAM, the Foundation's responsibilities include allocating residential land, constructing housing and residential complexes, allocating them to beneficiaries, leasing them, providing soft loans and financial grants necessary for the construction and purchase of housing, and covering the costs of maintenance, additions, or replacement. The Foundation also rehabilitates existing housing for citizens in older areas of the emirate, resettling them in these areas, improving housing services, and undertaking all necessary actions, including the purchase, ownership, reconstruction, or renovation of housing, in coordination with relevant government agencies. Required documents Applicants must prepare a set of official documents, including: A copy of their Emirates ID card and family book Proof of income (such as a salary certificate or bank statement) A valid land title deed or signed approval (if applying for construction support) Marriage certificate (if applicable) Court documents in the event of divorce or custody Medical reports if applying under the category of people with special needs All documents must be submitted through official channels and updated continuously throughout the process. Financial details Eligibility is also affected by the applicant's income. While there is no fixed minimum, grants are typically awarded to those with a monthly income of less than Dh15,000, while loans are granted to those with incomes above this limit, based on their ability to repay. The maximum support provided by the Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment can reach up to Dh1 million, depending on the type of housing product and the assessment of the case. Financial loans are granted to beneficiaries pursuant to a contract concluded between the Establishment and the beneficiary. This contract specifies the loan amount and its purpose, the method, amount, and duration of the collection guarantee, and any other conditions the Establishment deems appropriate. Regarding collection, financial loans are collected in monthly installments, the amount of which is determined according to regulations and standards. The beneficiary's monthly income is taken into account when determining the installment amount, and the full loan repayment period must not exceed twenty-five years. How to apply The process begins by creating an account on the Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment's smart platform or using the Dubai Now app. Applicants must complete the online application form and upload all necessary documents. After submitting the application, it undergoes an initial review phase, followed by a technical and financial evaluation. The Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment also provides advisory support for those unsure of which service is right for them. The Khaleej Times recently reported that the Foundation had implemented a training initiative for citizens on efficient and sustainable housing construction. Participants were provided with a detailed guide covering housing services, construction guidelines, and smart systems, as well as sustainable home management practices. They also learned how to estimate construction costs, determine an appropriate budget, choose the right home dimensions, and align the home design with the family's needs and financial resources. In addition, participants were introduced to the differences between building a new home and purchasing a ready-made home, as well as an overview of available financing options. Types of housing support The Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment offers a variety of housing grants and loans, designed to meet the various stages of a citizen's housing search journey. Among the most common types of grants are: Construction grants for citizens who own land but cannot afford construction costs. Home maintenance grants for families living in old properties that need urgent repairs. Ready-built home purchase grants for low-income families eligible for a ready-built home. Replacement grants for the demolition and reconstruction of unsafe buildings. For housing loans, there are a variety of options to suit different income brackets: Each type has specific conditions, repayment terms (for loans), and technical requirements. The Corporation's responsibilities, also include owning, constructing, leasing, and renting land and real estate; designing and implementing residential units and complexes for beneficiaries, either by itself or through institutions and companies it contracts for this purpose; and designing and implementing service facilities related to these units and complexes, in coordination with relevant government agencies.


Arabian Business
3 hours ago
- Arabian Business
6 trends reshaping the future of retail: Robot shopkeepers, AI assistants, private labels and more
The global retail sector is on the cusp of sweeping transformation over the next decade, according to a new report by Bain & Company. Titled ' The Future of Retail: Six Disruptions That Could Shape the Next Decade,' the report urges retailers to look beyond immediate pressures like inflation and tariffs, and instead focus on long-term structural shifts driven by technology, consumer behaviour, and new economic models. Marc-André Kamel, partner and global head of Bain & Company's Retail practice, said: 'Retail is on the brink of transformation. These disruptions are not speculative, they're already taking hold. 'As businesses manage tariff turbulence and other immediate concerns, they can't afford to lose sight of the long-term evolution of the strategic landscape. Our research convinces us that the industry will be comprehensively altered over the next five to 10 years, setting the stage for a retail renaissance.' Six key disruptions changing retail forever Algorithms and robots will run businesses: Automation will dominate pricing, promotions, and merchandising – leaving behind retailers that resist AI integration Customers will cheat on brands with AI shopping agents: As AI assistants make purchasing decisions, brand loyalty and digital marketing strategies will need a full rethink Value will become more personal and contextual: Real-time, data-driven personalisation will outweigh price as a key driver of customer satisfaction Grocers will evolve into fast-moving consumer goods powerhouses: The rise of private-label brands will blur lines between retailer and supplier, offering exclusive products and higher margins You might not need as many stores as you think: Brick-and-mortar locations must evolve – potentially serving as fulfilment centres, brand experiences, or subleased spaces The hunt for scale will cross borders: Global M&A and strategic alliances will be essential for retailers to fund tech upgrades and remain competitive Retailers are increasingly moving beyond traditional trade, tapping into new revenue streams in: Retail media Third-party marketplaces Financial services Logistics According to Bain, these 'beyond trade' activities accounted for 15 per cent of sales and 25 per cent of profits in 2024, up from just 10 per cent in 2021. Kamel said: 'No one can predict the future with certainty but we're already seeing how the winning retailers are diversifying their trade. Scenario planning can help retail leaders think beyond the quarterly cycle and get ready for what's coming. 'Those who act early and reinvest strategically will help lead a new era of retail excellence.'


Arabian Business
3 hours ago
- Arabian Business
Dubai's Global Village opens vendor applications for Season 30 as visitor numbers hit 10.5m
Global Village Dubai has officially opened applications for vendors to participate in its milestone Season 30, inviting proposals for the 'Restaurant and Coffee Shops' and 'Open Market' categories. Entrepreneurs, culinary innovators, and retail traders are encouraged to submit their concepts for key areas across the attraction, including popular zones such as Road of Asia and the iconic Indian Chaat Bazaar. There is also an opportunity to propose new open market ideas, making Season 30 a launchpad for fresh, high-impact business concepts. Global Village in Dubai The call for proposals follows the success of Season 29, which welcomed a record 10.5m visitors and featured: More than 3,500 retail outlets More than 250 dining experiences More than 75 new partners 80 new concepts launched across categories This performance underscores the high visibility and business potential that Global Village offers to participants each year. Global Village continues to serve as a powerful platform for entrepreneurial growth, combining footfall, diversity, and world-class infrastructure. Its focus on cultural celebration, unique shopping experiences, and international cuisine attracts a broad visitor base from across the UAE and beyond. The venue's reputation for business support, operational stability, and innovation-friendly environment makes it an attractive destination for startups and established brands alike. How to apply