In this episode of the DubaiView podcast, we’re joined by Ahmad Najib, co-founder and CEO of Ayoub & Co Real Estate. With a background in architectural engineering and construction, Ahmad brings a uniquely analytical and practical perspective to Dubai’s dynamic property market.
From managing multimillion-dirham construction projects to building a boutique real estate firm grounded in integrity and technical insight, Ahmad shares how blending engineering knowledge with client-first consulting can lead to exceptional results for both investors and agents.
From Engineer to Investor: The Power of Hybrid Experience
Ahmad started his career managing major construction projects in Abu Dhabi—hospitals, schools, and mosques—before pivoting into real estate. The decision, he says, came from one clear realisation:
“Engineering loved me in theory, but not in salary.”
Real estate became the perfect intersection of his passions: design, data, human interaction, and strategic growth. More importantly, his technical background allows him to evaluate buildings from the inside out, offering investors a level of consultation rarely found in standard brokerage models.
He doesn’t sell. He consults. And that distinction has become the cornerstone of Ayoub & Co’s brand.
The Dubai Market Isn’t Overheated—It’s Underrated
While many claim the market is overheated, Ahmad argues that it’s simply understood through the wrong lens. Comparing Dubai’s amenities, tax benefits, infrastructure, and ROI to Europe reveals a different picture:
- Increased construction costs have driven prices—not just demand.
- Architectural and lifestyle upgrades now offer 20+ amenities per building.
- Even with appreciation, Dubai remains more affordable than global benchmarks.
- Urban plans like Dubai 2040 and D33 reflect a long-term government-backed vision.
Dubai isn’t heading toward a bubble. It’s entering a new phase of maturity.
Future-Proof Investment Areas for Under 1 Million AED
For mid-range investors looking for high ROI with manageable capital, Ahmad recommends three categories:
- Waterfront Opportunities:
- Dubai Islands – Backed by new RTA bridges and metro connectivity.
- Maritime City – Luxury from Omniyat meets long-term scarcity value.
- Mina Rashid – The last beachfront community by Emaar.
- Townhouses in Growth Zones:
- Dubai South – Undervalued today, but positioned near the world’s largest airport.
- Al Furjan (select clusters) – Well-connected with increasing family demand.
- Commercial Assets:
- Retail & Office – Low competition, high yield, and capital appreciation.
„There’s no competition in commercials,“ he explains. „The only challenge is finding the right unit.“
Building a Boutique Brokerage: Why Less is More
Unlike many firms scaling agent count fast, Ahmad takes the opposite approach. Ayoub & Co caps its team at 25, handpicked agents—most with engineering or technical experience.
This allows the team to:
- Deliver quality over quantity
- Train for genuine consultation, not just sales volume
- Maintain a clear identity rooted in transparency and product knowledge
Ahmad believes that Dubai’s real estate future belongs to companies that operate with surgical precision—not noise.
Final Thoughts: Investors Are Buying You, Not Just a Property
Ahmad’s closing insight is simple:
„I don’t help you make money because I love you—I help you because I love my profession. And helping you succeed is how I succeed.“
He believes investors should stop chasing offers and start choosing consultants who understand vision, numbers, and trust. Just like in engineering, great execution in real estate requires the right blueprint—and the right advisor.
Explore Dubai’s Real Estate Opportunities
Dubai’s real estate market offers endless potential for those ready to innovate and adapt.
Ready to start your journey in Dubai’s thriving real estate sector? Follow the Dubai View Podcast for more expert insights, or book a free consultation with us to start the conversation.
→ Follow the Dubai View Podcast
→ YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/5x9mext7
→ Join our exclusive WA group for investors: https://tinyurl.com/4nv4aff5