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ARTICLES AND INSIGHTS
Stay informed with expert commentary, in-depth reports, and timely updates on Dubai’s dynamic commercial property market. This section features curated articles, investor insights, market news, and analysis covering trends, valuations, regulations, and economic developments.
Backed by 18 years of hands-on experience in Dubai, every piece is designed to give investors real-world context and strategic clarity—helping you stay ahead of the curve.
Check back regularly for fresh insights or subscribe to receive updates automatically via email and WhatsApp.
Transferring Property Ownership Between Companies via Corporate Restructuring in Dubai
This guide explains how to transfer real estate assets between two companies under the same ultimate beneficial ownership (UBO) as part of a corporate restructuring, and how to approach the Dubai Land Department (DLD) to seek approval—potentially reducing or avoiding the full 4% transfer fee.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Apr 27, 20254 min read
Short Term Rentals in Dubai: The Investor's Strategy Guide
Dubai’s booming tourism sector and business-friendly regulations have made it one of the most attractive global destinations for short-term rental investment. With over 17 million visitors in 2023 and average hotel occupancy above 80%, the market for holiday homes and Airbnb-style rentals has surged.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Apr 24, 20254 min read
Residential Mortgages in Dubai: Guide for Expats and Investors
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: eligibility, rates, documentation, loan types, fees, and the step-by-step process of securing residential mortgages in Dubai. Plus, you can use my free mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payments instantly.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Apr 21, 20255 min read
Buying Off-Plan Property in Dubai: Primary Market Guide
Dubai’s off-plan (primary market) property sector offers investors a rare combination of flexibility, security, and capital appreciation potential. By buying off-plan property in Dubai, you’re not just purchasing a home or asset—you’re entering at the earliest stage of the real estate value curve.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Apr 16, 20255 min read
The Benefits of Family Foundation for Real Estate Investors
Real estate investors in the UAE are increasingly turning to family foundations as a sophisticated, tax-efficient vehicle for holding property portfolios. This guide explores how family foundations can be utilized to legally reduce or eliminate corporate tax exposure, preserve generational wealth, and enhance estate planning—all while remaining compliant with UAE law.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Apr 9, 20255 min read
Dubai’s Megaprojects: 8 Developments Set to Redefine the City by 2035
Dubai is no stranger to reinvention. From a modest desert outpost to one of the most futuristic skylines in the world, the emirate has spent just over five decades building what many cities couldn’t in a century. Now, as the city moves into its next growth cycle, a series of visionary megaprojects are poised to once again reshape its identity—only this time, the focus is not just on architectural spectacle, but on sustainability, community living, and global leadership.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Apr 8, 202511 min read
Why Dubai Luxury Real Estate Is Booming In 2025
Dubai's property scene isn’t just heating up—it’s breaking global records. As cities like London and New York plateau, Dubai’s luxury real estate is setting new benchmarks, both in price growth and international appeal. It’s a city where ambition, quality of life, and investment value intersect. And now, more than ever, investors are taking note.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Apr 3, 20255 min read
UAE Ranked 2nd Safest Country - A Father’s Perspective on Living in the UAE
UAE ranked 2nd safest country in 2024—here’s why that matters to me as a father of three raising a family in Dubai.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Mar 26, 20255 min read
UAE’s $1.4 Trillion U.S. Investment and Dubai Real Estate Growth
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has set the stage for a historic financial move that is already grabbing global attention. Recently, the UAE announced plans to pour an astounding $1.4 trillion into the United States economy over the next ten years — a bold initiative confirmed by the White House. This groundbreaking commitment reflects not only the Gulf nation's growing global financial influence but also the deepening strategic relationship between the two countries.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Mar 23, 20259 min read
How Trade Wars Could Affect the UAE's Economy
The world is once again caught in the crossfire of escalating trade wars. From aggressive U.S. tariffs to European retaliation, global markets are facing growing uncertainty. But how trade wars could affect the UAE is a unique story—one that carries both risks and potential rewards for real estate investors, business owners, and policymakers in the Emirates.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Mar 17, 20254 min read
Dubai Real Estate Market Transactions Hit $13.9B in February 2025
Dubai’s real estate market showed phenomenal momentum in February 2025, with total transaction values climbing to AED 51.1 billion ($13.9 billion). According to the latest data from Property Finder, this represents a massive 55% year-on-year surge in value, paired with a 35% increase in transaction volume, totaling approximately 16,099 real estate transactions for the month.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Mar 7, 202510 min read
Key Takeaways from the January 2025 Property Monitor Report
In January 2025, Dubai's real estate market experienced a notable shift, marking the first decline in property prices since mid-2022. According to the January 2025 Property Monitor Report, property prices decreased by 0.57% month-on-month, settling at AED 1,484 per square foot. While this drop may spark questions about potential market corrections, understanding the broader context of Dubai’s ongoing real estate boom provides valuable perspective.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Feb 26, 20258 min read
What is Dubai's Secret Sauce?
Dubai’s secret sauce: Build it, and they’ll come, stay, spend, invest, and settle. A thriving city built on bold ambition and free markets.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Feb 26, 20256 min read
Property Gift Transfer in Dubai: Full Step-by-Step Guide
This guide explains how to legally gift property in Dubai, including who qualifies, what documents are required, what fees apply, and how to complete the process with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Feb 25, 20254 min read
Dubai Real Estate Ends 2024 on a High: Key Takeaways from the December 2024 Property Monitor Report
Dubai’s real estate sector closed out 2024 with another record-breaking performance, cementing its reputation as one of the world’s most resilient and dynamic property markets. As the year came to an end, the December 2024 Property Monitor Report revealed strong gains in property prices, surging sales transactions, and an unprecedented number of off-plan developments, highlighting the sector’s sustained momentum.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Feb 6, 20258 min read
Buying a Resale Property in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide for Investors
Detailed guide to buying a resale property in Dubai. Understand the full process, legal steps, costs, and mortgage options for residents and global investors.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Feb 4, 20258 min read
Dubai's New Mortgage Rules 2025: Essential Guide for Homebuyers
Dubai's New Mortgage Rules 2025: Read my essential guide for property investors for the full scoop on what's changed and why.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Jan 31, 202510 min read
Serviced Apartments in Dubai: A Rapidly Growing Segment
Serviced apartments in Dubai are booming, driven by rising expat demand for flexible, lifestyle-focused, and tech-enabled living.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Jan 29, 20258 min read
Dubai’s Freehold Move: A Transformational Opportunity for Investors
Dubai’s real estate market, renowned for its innovation and investor-friendly policies, has once again captured global attention with the Dubai Land Department’s (DLD) groundbreaking decision to grant property owners along Sheikh Zayed Road (SZR) and Al Jaddaf the ability to convert their properties to freehold ownership.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Jan 22, 20258 min read
Top Developers That Led Dubai’s $5M–$10M Luxury Apartment Market in 2024
Dubai’s luxury real estate market maintained its impressive momentum in 2024, reflecting a growing demand for premium properties priced between $5 million and $10 million. This thriving segment stood out for its innovative developments, exclusive locations, and world-class designs, catering to a discerning clientele of high-net-worth individuals and global investors.
Stephen James Mitchell MBA
Jan 22, 20258 min read
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