Latest news with #AhmedAlSuwaidi
Arabian Business
17-03-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai real estate trends revealed: ‘Community-centric living is the future of leasing'
Dubai's residential rental market is evolving at an unprecedented pace, shaped by shifting tenant preferences, regulatory changes, and macroeconomic trends. As affordability and flexibility take center stage, industry leaders are adapting to new consumer demands and a rapidly evolving real estate landscape. 'Over the past few years, we've seen a clear shift toward community-centric living,' Ahmed Al Suwaidi – Managing Director of Residential Communities at Dubai Holding Asset Management said in an exclusive interview with Arabian Business. 'Today, residents seek more than just a home—they desire vibrant, amenity-rich environments that align with their lifestyles,' he added. Dubai real estate shifts to mixed-use developments with 'holistic living experience': Experts The rise of 'community-centric- living This trend has been further reinforced by the UAE's 2025 Year of Community initiative, highlighting the government's commitment to fostering stronger, more integrated neighbourhoods. Dubai Residential has curated over 85 community-driven events in 2024, engaging more than 50,000 residents through cultural celebrations, sustainability initiatives, and family-friendly festivals. From sports courts to retail centers, the focus is on holistic living experiences that offer both convenience and connectivity. 'It's no longer just about location,' Al Suwaidi explained. 'It's about lifestyle, accessibility, and the overall experience of living in a well-planned, vibrant community.' Rental preferences shift in Dubai Flexibility in leasing arrangements has become a top priority for tenants, with demand surging for adaptable payment options and lease terms. 'Renters today seek greater financial convenience,' Al Suwaidi said. 'Many are willing to pay a premium for flexible leasing solutions, whether it's multiple cheque payments, short-term leases, or digital transactions.' Additionally, prime locations near metro stations, business hubs, and schools continue to be a key factor in rental decisions, reinforcing the importance of strategic real estate planning. Recent regulatory shifts have also played a key role in reshaping Dubai's rental market. 'This has increased upfront costs, prompting many prospective buyers to reconsider their homeownership plans and instead opt for renting,' said Al Suwaidi. While it's too early to gauge the full impact of these changes, Al Suwaidi anticipates an uptick in leasing demand as buyers assess their financing options. 'Dubai Residential is well-positioned to meet this shift,' he added. Freehold ownership and market confidence With new freehold ownership regulations opening more areas to foreign investors, market confidence is set to rise. 'These changes will drive large-scale redevelopment and enhance project quality, attracting both local and international investors,' Al Suwaidi said. — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) January 19, 2025 However, while some tenants may transition into homeownership, the rental market is expected to remain strong, particularly given the city's rising expatriate population and the financial benefits of renting. 'For many, renting offers lower upfront costs, greater mobility, and access to premium locations without long-term commitments,' he explained. The recent updates to the RERA rental index have introduced more precise rent benchmarks by incorporating real-time transaction data. 'This is a game-changer for both landlords and tenants,' Al Suwaidi said. 'It ensures fair and consistent pricing while reinforcing market stability.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arabian Business (@arabianbusiness) Dubai Residential has welcomed these refinements, leveraging the data-driven approach to maintain rental pricing across its diverse portfolio, which spans both premium and affordable housing. The integration of Nakheel and Meydan One of the most significant transformations has been the integration of Nakheel and Meydan assets under Dubai Holding. 'This has positioned Dubai Residential as one of the largest residential leasing portfolios in Dubai,' Al Suwaidi asserted. 'With over 35,000 units and a growing population of 140,000 residents, we are uniquely positioned to cater to Dubai's dynamic market.' The integration has translated into enhanced services, improved community offerings, and increased investment in infrastructure. 'Our focus is on ensuring seamless property management and introducing new value-added services to enhance the quality of life for our residents,' he said. Looking ahead, Al Suwaidi sees technology playing an even greater role in shaping the leasing experience with AI-driven property recommendations, smart contract integration, and digital payment solutions. The city's population is projected to reach 5.8 million under the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, ensuring long-term demand for residential leasing across all price segments,' he said. Sustainability remains a key focus across the Dubai real estate sector, with increasing demand for energy-efficient homes. Earlier this week, Arabian Business reported that the , with more buyers willing to invest in properties still under development. Demand for villa plots has surged, leading to notable price increases as investors grow more confident in designing and constructing bespoke homes tailored to their preferences. 'Community-centric living is the future of leasing,' Al Suwaidi concluded.
Emirates 24/7
14-03-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Dubai's Real Estate Outlook with Ahmed Al Suwaidi: Growth, Stability, and Future Trends
Ahmed Al Suwaidi, General Manager of Residential Communities at Dubai Holding Asset Management, speaks with Emirates247 about the current state of Dubai's real estate market, the evolving rental landscape, and future projections for 2025 and beyond. He highlights the resilience of Dubai Residential, its strategic expansion, and how market dynamics are shaping the city's residential sector. Q: The Dubai real estate market has been performing exceptionally well since the beginning of 2022. What are your projections for 2025? Dubai's real estate landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, creating vast opportunities for growth and investment. At Dubai Residential, we are at the forefront of this transformation—strengthened by the strategic integration of Nakheel and Meydan into Dubai Holding. This milestone has expanded Dubai Residential's leasing portfolio to over 35,000 units across 20+ prime communities, serving a community of 140,000+ residents. As one of Dubai's largest residential leasing portfolios, we are committed to supporting Dubai's evolution and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The real estate market's growth reflects Dubai's visionary leadership, robust economic fundamentals, and commitment to creating a globally attractive urban environment. Projections for 2025 remain highly optimistic, with continued expansion expected across residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. Dubai's population grew at an annualized rate of 3.8% between 2022 and 2024, a trend anticipated to persist as the Emirate aims to reach a population of 5.8 million by 2040. Demand for mid- and high-affordability residential segments is expected to rise, driven by economic growth, rising employment levels, and an influx of wealthy individuals. Additionally, expatriates are choosing to stay in the UAE for longer periods, aided by initiatives like the Golden Visa and the cost advantages of lease renewals, fostering greater market stability and sustained demand. Key drivers supporting Dubai's appeal include the D33 Economic Agenda, long-term residency programs, favorable tax policies, and sustainability initiatives like the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040. Investments in green spaces, urban connectivity, and resource efficiency will drive long-term value. Dubai Residential is well positioned to leverage this growth, offering integrated living spaces with state-of-the-art amenities that align with Dubai's vision for world-class, eco-friendly living. Q: Do you anticipate that the increase in supply will impact prices in the future? Over the past few years, demand for residential properties has outstripped new supply, contributing to a tightening market. This trend continued into 2024, with the first nine months registering 125,604 transactions—surpassing the entire 2023 total and positioning 2024 as another record year for Dubai's property market. Dubai's strong economic fundamentals, strategic urban development, and high quality of life support its position as a top destination for both residents and investors. By 2030, approximately 212,000 new residential units are expected, fostering a healthy balance between supply and demand. At Dubai Residential, we believe our portfolio is strategically positioned to withstand potential oversupply scenarios. Our integrated, resident-focused communities remain highly desirable due to their quality, modern amenities, and proactive management. With a strong focus on tenant satisfaction, controlled rent increments, and diverse offerings across various housing segments, we maintain a stable tenant base and high occupancy levels. Q: How do you evaluate the performance of the rental sector in Dubai? What is your current rental yield, and what are your future expectations? Dubai's rental sector continues to perform strongly, driven by robust demand and the city's global appeal. Between 2021 and 2024, rental rates saw significant growth, with apartment rents rising by 19.1% annually on a per sq. ft. basis, and villa rents increasing by 12.4%. Dubai Residential has been a key player in this thriving market, consistently delivering competitive rental yields. Our portfolio maintains occupancy rates exceeding market averages in high-demand communities, ensuring stable rental income and long-term growth potential. Q: The RERA index has undergone notable changes recently. How do these updates impact Dubai Residential and the broader rental market? The recent updates to the RERA index mark a significant step toward greater market transparency. By incorporating real-time transactions and aligning rental ranges to individual buildings through Ejari contracts, the refined index provides a more precise benchmark for rent adjustments. These refinements support the Government's broader efforts to ensure market stability—an initiative we fully endorse. For Dubai Residential, these updates will facilitate fair and consistent rental adjustments, reinforcing tenant satisfaction and driving above-market occupancy and retention rates. On a broader scale, these changes enhance market confidence and empower tenants with greater transparency. Q: Can you provide insights into Dubai Residential's portfolio value, existing projects, and their distribution across the Emirate? This year marks a major milestone with the rebranding of Dubai Residential, emphasizing our commitment to innovation, community enhancement, and exceptional living experiences. Our refreshed identity reflects our role in shaping Dubai's residential landscape while adapting to market trends. Dubai Residential's portfolio includes over 35,000 units across more than 20 thriving communities, representing a diverse and high-performing asset base. Our properties are strategically positioned to maximize market potential and align with Dubai's urban development vision. We categorize our offerings into four distinct segments: Premium Living: Iconic properties in prime locations like Bluewaters, City Walk, and Nad Al Sheba, featuring high-end living standards and world-class amenities. Community Living: Family-focused communities, such as Shorooq and Ghoroob in Mirdif, providing gated environments with retail, leisure, and fitness facilities. Affordable Living: Quality housing solutions tailored for value-conscious residents, addressing a crucial segment of the population. Corporate Housing: Purpose-built accommodations for corporate and industrial staff, offering convenience and proximity to key business hubs. Each of these segments reflects our strategic approach to catering to Dubai's growing and diverse population while reinforcing our market leadership. Q: What is your current occupancy rate? Do you have waiting lists in high-demand communities? Our portfolio occupancy rate exceeds 95%, well above the market average of 88%, underscoring the strong demand for Dubai Residential properties. This success stems from our focus on delivering high-quality residential experiences, proactive leasing strategies, and a commitment to tenant satisfaction. In high-demand communities like Mirdif and The Gardens, occupancy levels reach nearly 100%, often resulting in waiting lists—a testament to the desirability and competitiveness of our offerings. With retention rates of 90%, tenants continue to choose Dubai Residential for long-term living, further strengthening our market position. Looking ahead, we are actively expanding our portfolio with new developments in high-demand locations, ensuring we meet market needs while enhancing the living experience for our residents. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Hi Dubai
10-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
TECOM Group and Dubai Charity Association Launch Third Edition of ‘The Good Store' to Foster Ramadan Giving
Dubai's flagship Ramadan initiative, The Good Store, is making a comeback for its third consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to fostering community spirit and social solidarity. Spearheaded by TECOM Group in collaboration with Dubai Charity Association, this innovative platform enables residents to make charitable donations seamlessly during the holy month. Aligning with the Year of Community, the initiative upholds humanitarian values by making philanthropy more accessible. Ahmed Al Suwaidi, CEO of Dubai Charity Association, emphasized the alignment of The Good Store with the organization's long-standing charitable strategy. 'This initiative complements our Ramadan campaigns, including Iftar Sayim, Mir Ramadan, Farhat Yateem, Zakat Al-Fitr, and Zakat Al-Mal,' he said, urging Dubai residents to participate in building a more compassionate society. Haif Zamzam, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Marketing at TECOM Group PJSC, highlighted the initiative's growing impact. 'The Good Store reflects our commitment to making giving easier for all, uniting professionals, customers, and students in a shared mission of generosity. In the spirit of the 'Year of Community,' we are honored to continue this journey with Dubai Charity Association,' she stated. Operating under the theme 'Spot the Lantern, Pass the Light', this year's edition aims to broaden its reach, offering enhanced opportunities to contribute towards Iftar meals, essential food items, clothing, and Zakat al-Fitr through trusted donation networks. With a proven track record of fostering meaningful change, The Good Store continues to shine as a beacon of goodwill, reinforcing Dubai's position as a global leader in humanitarian efforts. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Zawya
06-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai Customs serves 60,000 iftar meals, fostering community spirit at Ramadan tent
Dubai – As part of its commitment to social responsibility and promoting community solidarity during the holy month of Ramadan, Dubai Customs launched its " Ramadan Tent," which is one of several community initiatives within its "The Best of Days" Ramadan campaign. Throughout the month, nearly 60,000 Iftar meals will be served at the tent, providing 2,000 meals daily to workers and individuals with limited incomes, in partnership with the Dubai Charity Association. This initiative reflects Dubai Customs' community-focused vision, aiming to support various groups and promote the concept of sustainable giving, especially during this month of generosity. The "Dubai Customs Ramadan Tent" is not just a place for Iftar, but also an opportunity to strengthen social connections and bring joy to the beneficiaries. Rashid Al Sharid, Executive Director, Administration and Finance Division at Dubai Customs, and Ahmed Al Suwaidi, CEO Dubai Charity Association, both joined the workers for Iftar. Al Sharid expressed his satisfaction with the initiative, highlighting the humanitarian role Dubai Customs plays in supporting workers and promoting values of giving and community solidarity. He noted that the Ramadan tent is one of Dubai Customs' leading charitable initiatives this year, aligning with its community-focused vision to support various groups as part of the sustainable "The Best of Days" Ramadan campaign. This initiative is part of the department's annual plan to support community projects that foster the values of kindness and charity while encouraging social responsibility across the community. Al Sharid also mentioned that the tent is strategically located near the Dubai Customs building at Port Rashid, making it easily accessible to workers. It provides healthy, complete meals every day throughout the month. To ensure the meals meet quality and food safety standards, various procedures have been implemented, with the Ghayath volunteer team at Dubai Customs overseeing the distribution in an organized and efficient manner. Al Sharid called on approved volunteer teams from other government entities to join Dubai Customs in supporting charitable and humanitarian efforts during Ramadan. Ahmed Al Suwaidi, CEO of Dubai Charity Association, expressed pride in collaborating with Dubai Customs on its Ramadan tent initiative. He highlighted that this partnership aligns with the core pillars of Dubai Charity's strategy and institutional values, reinforcing joint efforts between government and charitable organizations to promote social solidarity. He emphasized that this approach reflects the UAE's deep-rooted humanitarian vision, which has positioned the country as a global model for philanthropy and a beacon of generosity. Al Suwaidi extended his heartfelt gratitude to Dubai Customs for launching this noble community initiative. He noted that the Dubai Customs Ramadan tent coincides with the launch of Dubai Charity's annual Ramadan campaign, Yadoom Al Khair (Endless Good), which includes social and sustainable development projects across the UAE and in 20 countries worldwide. He urged others to follow Dubai Customs' example in humanitarian initiatives to help build a more united and prosperous society.
