EP79: GCC property development

The GCC is experiencing a major property development boom led by the UAE and extending across Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman. Planned investments over the next 10–15 years exceed US$344 billion, with the UAE accounting for nearly half. Commercial properties dominate more than 70% of developments, including major financial centers and business districts. Legal reforms allowing expatriates to own freehold property have unleashed strong pent-up demand, driving rapid sales and sharp rental increases, especially in Qatar, KSA and Dubai.Dubai commands a pricing premium due to its investor-friendly environment, mortgage availability and residency incentives. The market is led by quasi-government developers such as Emaar, Nakheel and Aldar, alongside private players expanding regionally and internationally.Key challenges include potential saturation in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, construction quality, infrastructure readiness and facilities management. Despite this, strong opportunities remain in other UAE emirates and lower-priced GCC markets, supported by differentiated mixed-use developments, financing tie-ups and high-quality FM and infrastructure services.