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Want to Buy Property in the UAE? Here’s What You Need to Know

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DUBAI, July 12: Young professionals earning between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000 per month are being advised to allocate 20% to 30% of their income toward savings if they plan to invest in real estate. Property experts say disciplined financial planning—combined with gradual salary increases—can help prospective buyers accumulate enough for a down payment within three to five years.

“For properties priced between AED 600,000 and AED 900,000, buyers would typically need to save AED 90,000 to AED 180,000 for a 15% to 20% down payment,” said Adriano Vichi, co-founder of Monopoly Properties AVS. “With consistent monthly savings of AED 2,000 to AED 4,500 and prudent budgeting, this goal is achievable within three to five years.”

Real Estate Isn’t Just for the Wealthy

Vichi emphasized that real estate investment is no longer exclusive to high-income earners. “With the right strategy—understanding the market, selecting locations aligned with budget and expected returns, and timing entry—individuals with moderate incomes can also step into property ownership and start building long-term wealth,” he said.

For early-career professionals, the idea of investing in real estate might seem daunting. However, thanks to innovations like tokenisation and fractional ownership, the barrier to entry is significantly lower today, enabling more people to participate in the property market.

Breaking Traditional Barriers

Previously, financial institutions often required a minimum of six months’ salary history and a stable income to approve mortgage applications—making early investment difficult for newcomers to the workforce. But now, real estate tokenisation offers a new avenue. Ayman Youssef, Managing Director at Coldwell Banker UAE, explained that young professionals and even recent graduates can invest through fractional ownership with as little as AED 2,000.

Tokenisation involves converting the value of a physical property into digital “tokens” that are then bought and sold via blockchain—a secure and transparent digital ledger shared across a computer network.

Where Are the Investment Hotspots?

When it comes to where to invest, Youssef points to Dubai South, citing its proximity to the upcoming Al Maktoum International Airport. “The airport’s expansion is expected to drive strong demand for residential, commercial, and retail space,” he said.

Another promising area is Town Square, known for its master-planned communities and attractive price points. Planned connectivity improvements to Sheikh Zayed Road are expected to boost demand and raise property values in the future.

Don’t Overlook the Hidden Costs

Vijay Valecha, Chief Investment Officer at Century Financial, cautioned young investors not to underestimate the true cost of homeownership. “Many overlook recurring expenses such as insurance, maintenance, and utility bills, which can accumulate significantly,” he said. “It’s wise to build a solid financial foundation before entering the property market.”

He also stressed the importance of having an emergency fund. “Given that many young investors are in their first job, creating a financial safety net is essential,” Valecha said. “Ideally, they should save the equivalent of six months of living expenses in a liquid account to cover unforeseen setbacks, such as job loss.”

Valecha suggests that new earners structure their investment portfolios with a diversified mix—70% in equities, 20% in bonds, and 10% in real estate—adjusted based on individual risk tolerance and financial goals.

Investing from Just AED 500

For those with limited capital, platforms like SmartCrowd and PRYPCO enable investments in Dubai properties for as little as AED 500 and AED 2,000 respectively. The concept has gained significant traction. According to PRYPCO founder Amira Sajwani, one tokenised property on the platform was fully funded within 24 hours by 224 investors, while a second property was sold out in under two minutes.

Proceed with Caution

However, not all experts are convinced about the long-term value of fractional ownership. Zsombor Szokol, co-founder of Monopoly Properties AVS, advises caution. “While these platforms offer easier access, they come with trade-offs: reduced control over the asset, limited liquidity, and often lower income returns compared to full ownership,” he said.

“For serious investors, traditional methods—through direct acquisition backed by market research—remain the most reliable way to build a solid real estate portfolio,” Szokol added.

Final Word: Strategy Matters

Whether to start small through tokenisation or save gradually for full property ownership is ultimately a personal decision. While entering the market early with modest sums may seem appealing, prospective investors should weigh the risks and long-term benefits.

Dubai is rapidly embracing real estate innovation. Earlier this year, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) launched its Real Estate Tokenisation Project, now in the pilot phase. The initiative aims to drive substantial growth in the sector, with projections estimating that tokenised real estate transactions could account for AED 60 billion—roughly 7% of all property transactions—by 2033.

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Kuwait-China ministerial committee advances key development projects

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His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah chaired a meeting of the Ministerial Committee at Bayan Palace on Thursday to follow up on the implementation status of agreements and memoranda of understanding signed between the governments of the State of Kuwait and the friendly People’s Republic of China.

KUWAIT CITY, Sept 18: His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah chaired Thursday, at Bayan Palace, the 27th ministerial committee meeting to follow up on the implementation of agreements and memoranda of understanding signed between Kuwait and China. The meeting reviewed the latest progress in executing developmental projects included in the MoUs, especially cooperation in Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, electricity systems, renewable energy, low-carbon recycling, housing, environmental infrastructure, free zones, and economic zones.

The meeting examined the outcomes of Chinese delegations’ visits this month, regarding cooperation between Kuwait and Chinese companies in environmental fields, afforestation, combating desertification, and ensuring effective collaboration to implement the agreed development initiatives efficiently and sustainably. His Highness directed committee members to ensure the strict implementation of signed agreements with major Chinese government companies, emphasizing adherence to strategic plans to achieve the intended results within the specified timeframes, ensuring proper execution of all projects. Assistant Foreign Minister for Asian Affairs, committee member and rapporteur Samih Jawhar Hayat, stated that the meeting discussed major development projects, reviewed upcoming Chinese delegations’ agendas, and highlighted that the Chinese state company will begin phases three and four of renewable energy projects, emphasizing Kuwait’s commitment to advancing joint initiatives and strengthening bilateral cooperation.

The meeting was attended by Head of the Prime Minister’s Office Abdulaziz Al-Dakheel, Minister of Public Works Noura Al-Mashaan, Minister of State for Municipality Affairs and Housing Abdullatif Al-Mishari, Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy and Minister of Finance and Acting Minister of State for Economic and Investment Affairs Sabeeh Al- Mukhaizem, Director General of the Direct Investment Promotion Authority Dr. Meshaal Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Head of Fatwa and Legislation Office Salah Al-Majid, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defense Abdullah Al-Sabah, and Assistant Foreign Minister for Asian Affairs and Member and Rapporteur of the Ministerial Committee Samih Jawhar Hayat.(KUNA)

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Kuwait Oil Company begins commercial production at the Mitribah field

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Kuwait Oil Company begins commercial production at the Mitribah field

Kuwait Oil Company CEO Ahmad Al-Eidan delivers his speech

KUWAIT CITY, Sept 18:  Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has officially begun commercial production at the Mitribah oil field in northwestern Kuwait, CEO Ahmad Al‑Eidan announced Thursday, marking a major milestone in the company’s strategic expansion.

Al‑Eidan, speaking at a ceremony in Ahmadi City under the patronage of Oil Minister Tareq Al‑Roumi, described the launch as more than just completing a project. He called it “a living testimony” to the determination, innovation, and cooperative spirit within KOC.

He said Mitribah now joins KOC’s productive assets, giving “a strong push” to the company’s strategic path. Reflecting on his own history with the field, Al‑Eidan recalled his early work in the 1990s as a geologist in KOC’s exploration group, witnessing its development through many years.

Al‑Eidan explained that the milestone comes at a pivotal moment for KOC, which recently undertook a major organizational restructuring designed to enhance efficiency, sharpen its vision, and boost momentum across all its sectors. A key outcome of that reorganisation is the formation of the “New Exploration Group,” aimed at accelerating the process from exploration to production—especially in complex or unconventional reservoirs.

He pointed out that Mitribah is the first major achievement under this new structure. Institutional support and a clear strategic vision, he said, helped reduce project timelines, mitigate risks, and strengthen Kuwait’s position in global oil production.

Al‑Eidan praised the work of specialized geologists, engineers, planners, operators, and technical support staff. He also acknowledged the role of partners and contractors, whose cooperation and commitment he said were essential to overcoming infrastructure challenges and deploying advanced technologies efficiently.

He added that this achievement is not the end but the start of a more ambitious journey. He called on all involved to maintain momentum, continue adopting the latest technical solutions, and foster a culture of innovation and excellence, united by a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork.

Commercial output from Mitribah officially began on June 15, 2025, after connecting several wells to KOC’s production facilities. The field, located in a previously undeveloped stretch in northwest Kuwait, covers more than 230 square kilometres and lies outside the area of fields already operated by the company. Light oil with commercial viability was first discovered there in 2009. One of the major technical challenges was managing hydrogen sulfide gas concentrations of up to 40 percent, which contributed to delays in production start‑up.

The CEO of Kuwait Oil Company presents commemorative gifts to the Minister of Oil.

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US-Arab Chamber of Commerce names Kuwaiti Al-Mudhaf as new Director of External Affairs

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US-Arab Chamber of Commerce names Kuwaiti Al-Mudhaf as new Director of External Affairs

Kuwaiti Fawaz Al-Mudhaf appointed director of External Affairs at US-Arab Chamber of Commerce

WASHINGTON, Sept 18:  The US-Arab Chamber of Commerce has appointed Kuwaiti national Fawaz Al-Mudhaf as its new Director of External Affairs, in a strategic move aimed at deepening US-Arab economic ties and empowering emerging regional talent.

The announcement, made on Wednesday, reflects the Chamber’s broader vision to enhance cross-border cooperation and nurture young leaders capable of navigating the evolving landscape of global trade and diplomacy.

“This appointment embodies the Chamber’s commitment to developing regional talent that contributes to and enhances cross-border cooperation,” the Chamber stated in a press release. It added that the selection of Al-Mudhaf aligns with the organization’s goal of equipping emerging leaders to adapt to rapid transformations in US-Arab economic and diplomatic relations.

Al-Mudhaf is expected to spearhead the Chamber’s external affairs strategy, focusing on strengthening relations with decision-makers, global companies, and major institutions in both the United States and the Arab world. His leadership will be crucial at a time of shifting global alliances, new trade priorities, and the increasing need for international collaboration.

Expressing gratitude for the appointment, Al-Mudhaf said the role is “both an honor and a responsibility.” He emphasized that the US-Arab Chamber of Commerce is “more than just a business platform,” calling it “a trusted forum for dialogue, mutual respect, and opportunities for joint cooperation that strengthen ties between peoples.”

He affirmed his commitment to the Chamber’s mission, pledging to serve “with all sincerity” and to help consolidate US-Arab partnerships at a time when, he noted, “international communication has become more urgent than ever.”

Chamber President and CEO David Hamod praised Al-Mudhaf’s appointment, stating, “We are extremely proud of Fawaz, who is a fundamental pillar of the Chamber’s team. He is a fine example of a young Kuwaiti who is leaving an influential mark on the international scene.” Hamod added that Al-Mudhaf’s contributions are a “fundamental pillar in the Chamber’s success story.”

The US-Arab Chamber of Commerce, established over 50 years ago, is widely recognized as the oldest American organization dedicated to advancing US-Arab trade. It is often described as the “first commercial gateway” to the Middle East and North Africa for the United States.

As an independent, membership-based organization, the Chamber boasts over 50 members and partners and is the only American trade body officially recognized by both the League of Arab States and the Union of Arab Chambers. It continues to serve as a preeminent voice for American business interests in the Arab world, working to strengthen economic partnerships across the region.

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