Latest news with #UrbanPlan2040
Tourism Breaking News
3 days ago
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Dragonpass sets new benchmarks for Premium Travel in the GCC
Post Views: 14 Dragonpass International (Dragonpass) is redefining the travel experience in the GCC. Andrew Harrison-Chinn CMO at Dragonpass shared, 'With over 2.7 million customers in the region, we've seen a 100% year-on-year increase in customers transitioning from analog to digital. This growth aligns with the broader development visions shaping the future of the GCC. Regional strategies, including Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the UAE's Urban Plan 2040, emphasize smart infrastructure, elevated quality of life, and seamless urban mobility—all priorities that mirror Dragonpass's commitment to frictionless, tech-enabled travel. Across the GCC, international tourism is surging, with Saudi Arabia welcoming 30 million visitors and the UAE's major airports seeing over 48 million international arrivals in the past year. The demand for seamless, value-rich travel experiences has never been higher.' Dragonpass's growth has been powered by its flexible and collaborative approach to market entry and expansion. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all model, the company partners closely with local organizations to co-create solutions that reflect the unique cultural and consumer dynamics of each GCC market. This localized agility has enabled Dragonpass to rapidly scale its operations and emerge as a preferred platform for both travelers and regional businesses seeking to enhance the travel experience. A key differentiator is Dragonpass's advanced technology platform, which aggregates travel services and loyalty benefits into one unified and personalized user experience. Strategic partnerships with leading blue-chip organizations based in the Middle East allow the company to deliver high-value offerings that combine exclusivity, convenience, and relevance. Dragonpass has also expanded well beyond traditional airport benefits. The platform now offers access to over 2,150 curated travel experiences, including Fast Track and a wide array of dining options. Dragonpass has recently launched a new lifestyle module focused on wellness and fitness. Members can now access more than 1,000 fitness and wellness locations across 50 major cities in over 25 countries—meeting the growing demand in the region for holistic, on-the-go wellbeing. 'The GCC is redefining the future of global travel, with innovation at the core of how experiences are delivered and valued,' said Andrew Harrison-Chinn CMO at Dragonpass. 'The GCC is a strategic growth market for us, home to highly discerning travelers who expect seamless, premium, and personalized journeys. By co-creating with forward-thinking partners and investing in technology-led solutions, we're not just responding to regional demand — we're helping shape a smarter, more elevated travel ecosystem across the region.'
Khaleej Times
10-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Why are global investors in Dubai shifting their focus to plots?
Dubai's property scene is now buzzing with a new trend: foreign investors are increasingly turning their attention to plots of land. Drawn by the promise of high returns, tax perks, and a thriving economy, this pivot reflects a deeper confidence in Dubai's long-term prospects. The appeal? Undeveloped plots offer flexibility — whether it's crafting a bespoke villa, erecting a commercial hub, or simply holding onto the land for a lucrative resale, realty experts say. Last year alone, the numbers spoke volumes. Dubai clocked over 180,000 plot transactions, raking in more than Dh500 billion. Resales netted investors nearly Dh60 billion in profits, while the secondary market soared by 34 per cent year-on-year—a staggering 1,300 per cent leap over the past five years. Prices are surging, fuelled by robust regulations, digital transparency tools from the Dubai Land Department, and ambitious government strategies. Take the sale of a plot on a seahorse-shaped artificial island: bought for $9.9 million, it flipped two years later for $23 million—a jaw-dropping 242% return. Such stories are no longer outliers but markers of a maturing market. The hotspots are as diverse as the investors themselves. Emirates Hills, Dubai Hills, and Palm Jumeirah lead the pack, where prime plots fetch an average of Dh50 million, catering to those with deep pockets. Yet, affordability isn't out of reach. Dubai South, nestled near Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo City, offers a lower entry point, with prices poised to climb as infrastructure blossoms. Dubailand, meanwhile, is emerging as a canvas for townhouses and villas, its potential tied to ongoing development. For the budget-conscious, Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) shines—central, in-demand for rentals, and dotted with reasonably priced plots ripe for building. Olga Poletskaya, CEO of Colife Invest, underscores the allure: 'The average return on plots—15-25 per cent —far outpaces the 7-10 per cent from apartments and villas. We're even seeing deals double in value.' 'It's a compelling contrast to the residential sector, where predictability has long reigned. Plot prices climb faster in up-and-coming areas, offering investors a blank slate—build a dream home, a retail space, or lease it out for passive income, say, as parking or storage. The absence of property or capital gains taxes only sweetens the deal,' Poletskaya adds. What's driving this land rush? Beyond the numbers, it's about vision, say analysts at Colife. Dubai's Urban Plan 2040, the expansion of Al Maktoum Airport, and the legacy of Expo City signal a metropolis on the move. Analysts predict plot demand will stay strong through 2030, buoyed by these mega-projects. 'Investors see Dubai as a safe bet with room to grow,' notes a Betterhomes report, highlighting a spike in foreign interest. Unlike finished properties, plots offer a lower entry cost in many cases, plus the freedom to wait and watch values soar—a strategy paying off in spades. From Russian tycoons to Indian entrepreneurs, the global crowd is diversifying. They're not just buying; they're betting on Dubai's future. And with the government doubling down on transparency and development, that future looks golden. Whether it's a millionaire snapping up a Palm Jumeirah parcel or a mid-tier investor eyeing JVC, the message is clear: in Dubai, the land itself is the new luxury. As the city races toward its 2040 ambitions, plots might just be the smartest play yet in this desert dynamo's real estate game. Investing in residential real estate in Dubai is well-known and understood by foreign investors. However, the growing popularity of purchasing plots has its own reasons. What are they? Analysts at Colife argue that since plot prices are growing faster than finished real estate in developing areas, investors are incentivised to go for it. 'In addition, there is choice. You can build an individual villa, or a commercial building, or do nothing and simply resell it for a higher price. Often a lower entry cost than buying a finished property. The absence of property tax or capital gains tax makes investments more profitable," they explained.
Emirates 24/7
27-02-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment launches Housing Innovation Forum
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE) organised Wednesday the Housing Innovation Forum as part of 'UAE Innovates 2025'. The forum aims to showcase the latest innovative solutions in the housing sector, promote digital transformation and sustainability, and foster insightful discussions and interactive workshops featuring a distinguished lineup of experts and decision-makers from both the public and private sectors. The forum aligns with the vision of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment, which strives to provide pioneering and sustainable housing services. Innovation, sustainability, and technology are key pillars of its strategy, ensuring the creation of smart and advanced housing environments that cater to citizens' needs and enhance quality of life. Commenting on the event, Mariam Abdullah Al Suwaidi, Director of Strategy and Development Management at MBRHE, stated, "Innovation in the housing sector is a fundamental driver for sustainability and an enhanced quality of life. Through the Housing Innovation Forum, we seek to anticipate the future and adopt the latest technologies and smart solutions that enhance the efficiency of housing projects and contribute to the realisation of Dubai's Urban Plan 2040." A group of distinguished speakers engaged in a panel discussion titled 'Housing and Ambition: Designing Future Solutions'. The forum will feature two specialised workshops designed to encourage creative thinking and develop practical solutions for the future of housing. The first workshop, "Housing Horizons – Innovative Solutions for a Flexible and Sustainable Future," will focus on developing adaptive housing strategies for evolving urban needs. The second workshop, "The Future of Housing – Inspired by Youth Aspirations," will explore how young generations' perspectives can shape future housing projects. Stakeholders in the housing sector, including real estate developers, engineers, technology experts, academics, and entrepreneurs, attended the forum and contributed to shaping the future of smart and sustainable housing. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Zawya
27-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment launches Housing Innovation Forum
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE) organised Wednesday the Housing Innovation Forum as part of 'UAE Innovates 2025'. The forum aims to showcase the latest innovative solutions in the housing sector, promote digital transformation and sustainability, and foster insightful discussions and interactive workshops featuring a distinguished lineup of experts and decision-makers from both the public and private sectors. The forum aligns with the vision of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment, which strives to provide pioneering and sustainable housing services. Innovation, sustainability, and technology are key pillars of its strategy, ensuring the creation of smart and advanced housing environments that cater to citizens' needs and enhance quality of life. Commenting on the event, Mariam Abdullah Al Suwaidi, Director of Strategy and Development Management at MBRHE, stated, "Innovation in the housing sector is a fundamental driver for sustainability and an enhanced quality of life. Through the Housing Innovation Forum, we seek to anticipate the future and adopt the latest technologies and smart solutions that enhance the efficiency of housing projects and contribute to the realisation of Dubai's Urban Plan 2040." A group of distinguished speakers engaged in a panel discussion titled 'Housing and Ambition: Designing Future Solutions'. The forum will feature two specialised workshops designed to encourage creative thinking and develop practical solutions for the future of housing. The first workshop, "Housing Horizons – Innovative Solutions for a Flexible and Sustainable Future," will focus on developing adaptive housing strategies for evolving urban needs. The second workshop, "The Future of Housing – Inspired by Youth Aspirations," will explore how young generations' perspectives can shape future housing projects. Stakeholders in the housing sector, including real estate developers, engineers, technology experts, academics, and entrepreneurs, attended the forum and contributed to shaping the future of smart and sustainable housing.
Zawya
27-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment launches the Housing Innovation Forum as part of "UAE Innovates 2025"
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE) has announced the organization of the Housing Innovation Forum as part of "UAE Innovates 2025", scheduled to take place on February 26, 2025, at Grand Hyatt Princess Hall, Dubai. The forum aims to showcase the latest innovative solutions in the housing sector, promote digital transformation and sustainability, and foster insightful discussions and interactive workshops featuring a distinguished lineup of experts and decision-makers from both the public and private sectors. The forum aligns with the vision of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment, which strives to provide pioneering and sustainable housing services. Innovation, sustainability, and technology are key pillars of its strategy, ensuring the creation of smart and advanced housing environments that cater to citizens' needs and enhance quality of life. Commenting on the event, Ms. Mariam Abdullah Al Suwaidi, Director of Strategy and Development Management at MBRHE, stated: "Innovation in the housing sector is a fundamental driver for sustainability and an enhanced quality of life. Through the Housing Innovation Forum, we seek to anticipate the future and adopt the latest technologies and smart solutions that enhance the efficiency of housing projects and contribute to the realization of Dubai's Urban Plan 2040." An Engaging Agenda A panel discussion titled "Housing and Ambition: Designing Future Solutions" will bring together a group of distinguished speakers, including H.E. Mohamed Al-Braiki, CEO of Masdar City; Mr. Abdulaziz AlJaziri, Deputy CEO of Dubai Future Foundation; Dr. Georges Nour, a leading expert in real estate and finance; H.E. Mohamed Abdul Latif Qamhaieh, Associate Professor of Architecture and Urban Planning; and Eng. Mohamed Al Mufti, winner of the "Future Housing" competition. The event will also witness the launch of several major initiatives, including the "Innovation Strategy and the Internal 'Nabtaker' Platform," presented by Eng. Mohamed Al Marashi, which aims to foster a culture of innovation in housing projects. Another key highlight will be the unveiling of the "Future Life" interactive game, led by Eng. Hind Kulthum, which offers a simulated experience exploring future smart community scenarios. Workshops to Drive Innovation The forum will feature two specialized workshops designed to encourage creative thinking and develop practical solutions for the future of housing. The first workshop, "Housing Horizons – Innovative Solutions for a Flexible and Sustainable Future," will focus on developing adaptive housing strategies for evolving urban needs. The second workshop, "The Future of Housing – Inspired by Youth Aspirations," will explore how young generations' perspectives can shape future housing projects. At the conclusion of the event, distinguished speakers and participants will be honored, and attendees will have the chance to win exciting prizes, including five smartphones through a special draw. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment invites all stakeholders in the housing sector, including real estate developers, engineers, technology experts, academics, and entrepreneurs, to attend the forum and contribute to shaping the future of smart and sustainable housing. Attendees can confirm their participation by registering through official platforms using the hashtags: #UAE_Innovates #Housing_Innovation_Forum For more information, please visit: For media inquiries: Araxi Keoshgerian Phone: 0504957461 Email: Araxi@
