Engel & Völkers
  • 5 min read

REITs in Dubai: How They Work and Why They Matter

REITS in Dubai

Real estate is one of the most popular forms of investment globally, and in Dubai, it is no different. Dubai’s rapidly growing property market, combined with high rental yields and competitive prices, has attracted investors from across the globe. 

In recent years, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in Dubai have opened up a new way for individuals and institutions to invest in the property market. This blog will explore what a REIT is, how it functions in Dubai, and its benefits for investors.

What Is a REIT?

A Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) is a company that owns, operates, or finances income-generating real estate assets. In Dubai, REITs allow individuals and institutions to invest in large-scale properties such as shopping malls, office buildings, hotels, and residential buildings without purchasing or managing the properties themselves. 

Key characteristics of REITs include:

  • Diversification: REITs typically invest in multiple properties across various sectors, giving investors diversification through a single investment. 

  • Liquidity: Unlike direct property investments, which can take a long time and be expensive to sell, REIT shares are often traded on stock exchanges, giving greater flexibility. 

  • Income Distribution: REITs distribute much of their income to shareholders as dividends, which can provide regular returns. 

If you’ve wondered what a REIT is, it is a simplified way to invest in real estate that reduces some risks and challenges of direct ownership. 

How Do REITs Work in Dubai?

Dubai’s REIT market is growing rapidly, providing new opportunities for local and international investors to gain exposure to Dubai real estate. REITs in Dubai operate under the supervision and guidance of the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and are typically listed on local stock exchanges like NASDAQ Dubai. 

Here’s how they function:

  1. Acquisition of Properties: REITs acquire income-generating real estate assets, such as commercial buildings or residential complexes.

  2. Revenue Generation: Rental income and property appreciation contribute to revenue.

  3. Dividend Distribution: The majority of profits are distributed to shareholders as dividends.

  4. Stock Market Trading: Investors can buy or sell REIT shares on the stock exchange, similar to publicly listed companies. 

Dubai’s regulatory framework ensures transparency and investor protection, making REIT investing a viable option for many.

Benefits of Investing in REITs in Dubai

There are several potential benefits of REITs, making them an appealing option to a range of investors. 

Benefits of REITsExplained

Low Entry Barriers

Unlike buying physical property, investing in REITs typically has a low minimum investment, making them more accessible to a range of investors. 

Steady Income

Regular dividends can provide a consistent income stream to investors.

Diversification

Spreading investments across multiple properties can reduce risk. 

Liquidity

Shares can typically be easily traded on public exchanges, providing additional flexibility. 

Tax Efficiency

Dubai’s tax-free environment can enhance returns. 

Hands-off Investment

REITs do not require the investor to have expert real estate market knowledge and all ongoing responsibilities, such as property maintenance and rent collection, are handled by the investment company. 

Beyond the traditional benefits of REITs, Dubai’s market combines high growth potential with the city’s world-class real estate infrastructure, a strong draw for investors. 

How to Invest in REITs in Dubai

Investing in Dubai’s REITs is relatively straightforward and accessible for most investors. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Research REIT Options

  • Research publicly listed REITs such as Emirates REIT and ENBD REIT.

  • Analyze their performance, property portfolios, and dividend history.

2. Choose a Brokerage

  • Open an account with a broker authorized to trade on NASDAQ Dubai.

3. Purchase Shares

  • Invest in REIT shares through your brokerage platform.

4. Monitor Performance

  • Regularly review financial reports and market conditions.

Learning how to choose REITs involves understanding the type of properties they focus on, management expertise, and growth potential.

List of REITS in Dubai

Dubai’s growing REIT market includes some well-known options that investors can consider. Knowing how to choose REITs is essential for aligning your investment goals with the right opportunities. Here are some prominent REITs in Dubai:

Emirates REIT

Emirates REIT was the first and largest Sharia compliant Real Estate Investment Trust to be incorporated in the UAE. With a portfolio value exceeding USD 1 billion, the trust has a portfolio of 9 commercial properties, including the well known Index Tower and Index Mall in DIFC, and 3 schools including GEMS World Academy. 

ENBD REIT

Also traded on the NASDAQ Dubai, ENBD REIT is managed by Emirates NBD Asset Management, a subsidiary of the Government owned bank Emirates NBD. The trust invests in a mix of office, residential, and industrial properties, and reported a net asset value of USD 202 million in their interim results released on 5th December 2024. 

Al Mal Capital REIT

Launched in 2021, Al Mal Capital REIT was the first REIT to be listed on the Dubai Financial Market. The REIT targets a net dividend yield of at least 7% by investing in a diversified portfolio of income generating real estate assets in the UAE and GCC. 

SEDCO Capital REIT

Based in Saudi Arabia, SEDCO Capital REIT offers an additional way for investors to gain exposure to real estate in the region. The REIT invests in income-generating assets, mainly in Saudi Arabia, with at least 90% of net profits paid to investors as dividends. 

Risks and Considerations When Investing in REITs in Dubai

Whilst there can be several benefits to REIT investing, investors must be aware of the potential risks and considerations associated with this asset class. These include: 

  • Market Volatility: Share prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and asset values. 

  • Interest Rate Sensitivity: Rising interest rates may impact property values and dividend yields due to the increased cost of borrowing. 

  • Economic Risks: Like with many asset classes, REITs could be impacted by economic uncertainty.  

  • Regulatory Changes: New laws could affect the REIT’s operations.

  • Limited Control: Shareholders have no direct say in property management decisions.

Weighing up these risks against the benefits of REITs is essential for anyone considering investing. 

How REITs Are Impacting Dubai's Real Estate Market

Dubai’s REITs can play a significant role in shaping the market and its future growth. Here are some ways they impact the real estate market: 

  1. Increased Accessibility: REITs allow smaller investors to access high-value properties.

  2. Market Stability: REITs can help stabilize the market during economic fluctuations.

  3. Encouraging Transparency: REITs must follow stringent reporting standards, increasing investor trust.

  4. Global Appeal: International investors gain access to the Dubai market, increasing investment in the region, without needing to gain local knowledge or commit time to managing the assets. 

Conclusion

By offering accessibility, steady income, and diversification, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) provide a compelling alternative to traditional property investments.

For those interested in learning more about Dubai REIT opportunities, researching different options and staying informed about market trends can help maximize returns while mitigating risks. With the city’s thriving real estate sector and investor-friendly environment, now could be an excellent time to consider this innovative investment approach.

Buy or sell successfully with Engel & Völkers

Contact us today for expert guidance throughout your property journey.

You may also be interested in

Joshua Hughes

Joshua Hughes is an experienced copywriter and digital marketer with over 5 years of expertise crafting compelling content and driving online engagement. With more than 2 years of experience in the Dubai real estate industry, Joshua combines his creative flair with industry insights to deliver impactful messaging and data-driven insights that inform, inspire, and deliver results.

Contact

Contact your personal advisor

Engel & Völkers Dubai

Golden Mile Galleria 2, Office 21, Mezzanine Floor

Palm Jumeirah, PO Box 17722, Dubai, UAE

Tel: +971 4 4223500