Building a Brokerage in Dubai: Reality Check (Part 2 of 2)

Editor’s Note: This episode was recorded following recent geopolitical developments as a follow-up to Part 1. Together, both episodes provide a before-and-after perspective on building and operating a brokerage in Dubai.What happens when market conditions shift overnight?In Part 2 of this 2-part series, Silvia Eldawi reconnects with JP Mondalek, CEO of Liberate, to examine how Dubai’s real estate brokerage market is responding to sudden geopolitical disruption — and what this means for boutique brokerage founders.From declining transaction volumes to increased pressure on revenue, this episode explores what’s holding up, what’s breaking, and how operators can adapt in real time.The conversation also dives deeper into Brokerage-as-a-Service (BAAS) — and why infrastructure-led models may become more relevant in uncertain market conditions.In this episode, we cover: The impact of regional conflict on Dubai’s real estate market Why transaction volumes can drop significantly during uncertainty Where boutique brokerages feel pressure first Why some brokerages exit while others adapt and survive How BAAS supports founders during volatile periods The importance of niche positioning and operational discipline What founders should be focusing on right nowAbout the guest:JP Mondalek is the CEO of Liberate, a venture helping experienced brokers transition into agency ownership through a selective, infrastructure-led model designed to reduce risk and enable growth.Resources:Liberate Official Website: https://xliberate.comEnquiry Form: https://1oymvbelhha.typeform.com/liberateGuest Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpmondalekNext: Watch Part 1 for the blueprint — this episode is the reality check.