UAE Investors Prefer London For Property Investments, Research Reveals

Research commissioned by Barratt London, a premier residential developer in the UK, has positioned London as the preferred destination for UAE investors contemplating property purchases overseas. This study, executed by Insight Advantage this month, aimed to uncover the inclinations of UAE investors towards global property markets.

Of those surveyed, a significant 58% are based in Dubai, followed by 28% in Abu Dhabi, and 6% in Ajman, with the rest spread across Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah.

London emerged as the prime location for property investment among 69% of respondents when asked to choose from ten global capitals. Following London, New York and Singapore were recognized as the second and third most popular choices, respectively. Besides property, the investors showed a keen interest in cryptocurrency (62%), savings accounts (57%), and stocks and shares (56%).

"The Barratt London UAE research results offer insights into the current preferences and trends among UAE investors in the international property scene, highlighting London as a secure and profitable option," stated Stuart Leslie, International Sales and Marketing Director at Barratt London.

Investors find London appealing for its potential for considerable capital growth, rental opportunities, and the allure of owning property in a prestigious city. The research underscored the blend of financial advantages and the city’s desirable location as critical factors.

Highlighting Barratt London’s commitment to Middle East investors, the Royal Gateway development in Acton, part of the London Borough of Ealing, is introduced as the latest offering. This development promises to deliver 300 new apartments, featuring amenities and quick access to central London locations and Heathrow Airport. This initiative is part of the area's extensive regeneration plan, which includes a new high street and two major campuses for Imperial College.

With completions starting in late 2025, Royal Gateway is set to include a variety of housing options, from one- to three-bedroom apartments, including ten exclusive penthouses to be launched later. "Royal Gateway is a significant opportunity for investors to engage in the UK's largest regeneration project," Leslie commented.

Additional findings from the survey indicate a strong inclination among current London property owners and prospective investors towards further investments in the London market within the next two years.

The survey also shed light on the financial aspects of London property investments, revealing an average portfolio value of over £2.7 million and an average growth of 16.4% since purchase. This contrasts with non-London UK property portfolios, which showed a similar growth rate.

Barratt London, renowned for its quality construction and strategic location choices, officially introduced Royal Gateway to Middle East investors on 23 May, with prices starting from £450,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. The company has a legacy of over 40 years in building quality homes in London, emphasizing sustainable development and community building in regeneration areas. For more details on their projects, interested parties can visit Barratt London's website.

Barratt London, a division of Barratt Developments, the UK's largest housebuilder, continues to solidify its reputation by focusing on areas with high rental yields and excellent transport links, further enhancing its portfolio with over 50,000 homes completed in London.