What’s the real difference in buying, renting, or selling property in Dubai vs. Abu Dhabi?

In this episode of Property Talk from Louise’s Lounge, Andrew Covill, Director of Henry Wiltshire International, unpacks the hidden differences between the UAE’s two biggest real estate markets - from regulatory rules to buyer behavior, rental trends, and how brokerages actually operate on the ground.

Andrew breaks down how Abu Dhabi’s property scene has evolved in the past three years, why areas like Reem Island and Saadiyat are heating up, and what’s driving a wave of international investors into the capital. He also shares insider insights on why buyer and seller expectations are worlds apart in the two cities—and how that changes everything from pricing strategy to portfolio planning.

You’ll learn how regulation, supply, and market maturity shape each city’s real estate identity. We also explore the role of short-term rentals, rental caps, off-plan dynamics, and why landlords and agents operate so differently in each market.

Plus, Andrew gives a rare behind-the-scenes look at how running a brokerage in Abu Dhabi compares to Dubai and what agents and investors need to know to succeed in either.

If you’re buying, investing, or just curious about how these two powerhouse cities compare when it comes to real estate, this episode is packed with expert advice you can’t miss!

Contact us at:

Website: https://www.exclusive-links.com/

Email: enquiry@exclusive-links.com

Phone: +971 4 399 4937

Follow our social channels to learn more about our properties and services:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ELREDubai/

Twitter - https://x.com/elredubai

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/exclusivelinks/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/exclusive-links-real-estate-brokers/

(00:00) Preview and Introduction

(01:10) Abu Dhabi’s Real Estate Market Since 2020

(04:40) Buyer & Seller Behavior in Abu Dhabi vs. Dubai

(06:30) The Regulation Gap Between the Two Cities

(12:40) Rental Trends, Yields & Tenant Pressures

(16:10) The Rise of International Buyers in Abu Dhabi

(19:35) Abu Dhabi’s Short-Term Rental Market

(24:45) Brokerage Operations: Abu Dhabi vs. Dubai

(28:50) Marketing, Licensing & Customer Expectations

(30:10) Legal Differences: Contracts, Fees & Transparency

(34:40) Common Investor Mistakes to Avoid

(35:55) Mortgage Rules, Financing, and Payment Plans

(40:25) Undervalued Areas & What’s Next for Abu Dhabi

(41:15) Final Advice for Property Investors in the UAE

Join us for an insightful conversation with Barry Lee Cummings and David Cook, co-founders of Contractors Direct, as they reveal the secrets to successful property renovations in Dubai and how homeowners can avoid costly mistakes.

In this episode, Barry and David dive into the biggest pitfalls property owners face when renovating, from underestimating budgets to hiring the wrong contractors. They discuss how poor planning, hidden costs, and legal hurdles can derail projects—and share expert strategies to maximize your investment while staying on time and budget.

This episode breaks down how to find the best contractors in Dubai, why developer approvals are getting more expensive, and the key differences between investor-led renovations and homeowner projects. Plus, we uncover real-life renovation horror stories and how Contractors Direct has helped rescue abandoned projects.

Barry and David also explore the role of project management consultants, how they save owners 8-12% in total costs, and the importance of vetting contractors properly to prevent project failures.

If you’re considering renovating a property in Dubai, want to know how to increase ROI through strategic upgrades, or need advice on navigating Dubai’s renovation laws and approval processes, this episode is a must-watch!

Contact us at:

Website: https://www.exclusive-links.com/

Email: enquiry@exclusive-links.com

Phone: +971 4 399 4937

Follow our social channels to learn more about our properties and services;

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ELREDubai/

Twitter - https://x.com/elredubai

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/exclusivelinks/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/exclusive-links-real-estate-brokers/

(00:00) Introduction

(02:15) The Biggest Renovation Mistakes Homeowners Make

(07:30) Why Budgeting Before Starting A Project Is Crucial

(12:10) How To Spot Red Flags When Hiring A Contractor

(18:40) The Rising Cost Of Developer Approvals In Dubai

(25:05) The Importance Of Having A Project Manager For Renovations

(32:50) Real-Life Renovation Horror Stories & Project Failures

(38:15) Investor Vs. Homeowner Renovation Strategies

(42:00) Expert Tips For A Successful Property Renovation

Join us for an insightful conversation with Elio Badr, Sales Director at QUBE, as he takes us on his journey from luxury real estate to spearheading sustainable developments in Dubai.

In this episode, Elio dives into QUBE’s vision for eco-friendly living, the growing demand for green communities, and how sustainability is driving higher ROI for investors. He also shares the unique features of Arisha Terraces, a development blending innovation, modern design, and environmental consciousness.

This episode breaks down how sustainability is reshaping Dubai's real estate market, from driving investor interest to meeting the global demand for greener lifestyles.

Elio identifies key trends in sustainable property development and how Dubai is leading the way in creating profitable, eco-friendly communities.

If you’re interested in real estate, sustainability, or exploring Dubai’s booming property market, this episode is a must-watch!


Exclusive Links Real Estate Brokers is one of the UAEs leading brokerage firms, offering a complete property experience. Exclusive Links Real Estate will offer to their customers a full complement of property activities including Sales, Leasing, and Dubai Property Management. Since its establishment in 2005 the company has grown in strength and reputation and has maximised the business potential to the benefit of our valued local and international client base.


Contact us at:
Website: https://www.exclusive-links.com/
Email: enquiry@exclusive-links.com
Phone: +971 4 399 4937

Follow our social channels to learn more about our properties and services;
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ELREDubai/
Twitter - https://x.com/elredubai
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/exclusivelinks/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/exclusive-links-real-estate-brokers/


(00:00) Introduction
(00:55) Meet Elio Badr
(01:21) From Luxury Real Estate to Sustainability
(02:45) QUBE’s Focus on Eco-Friendly Living
(05:20) Balancing Profitability with Sustainability Goals
(08:00) The Vision Behind Arisha Terraces
(10:43) Building Community Experiences at Arisha Terraces
(12:25) Why Studio City?
(14:50) Sustainable Technologies at QUBE
(16:22)Dubai's Leadership in Global Sustainability
(18:12) QUBE’s Vision for 2025 and Beyond
(20:16) Challenges of Implementing Sustainability in Real Estate
(21:02) QUBE’s Legacy and Future Projects
(22:57) Advice for Aspiring Developers