An RSS feed generated from the news aggregator on The First Group http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news Mon, 09 Apr 2012 11:40:29 +0100 Mon, 09 Apr 2012 11:40:29 +0100 (c) copyright text en-us The beachfront at Jumeirah Beach Residence will a hive of motorbiking activity this weekend, as the Red Bull X-Fighters speed into town. Some of the world’s most talented freestyle motocross bikers will be showcasing their death defying skills at the event, which will be held at a specially created arena just in front of the Walk on 13th April. It kick starts a six stop world tour that will also see the Red Bull riders battle it out in the US, Istanbul, Madrid and Munich, before heading to Sydney for the grand final. The event is sure to attract huge crowds to The Walk, which has fast become one of the most popular areas to hangout in Dubai. The stretch of restaurants, cafes and retail outlets runs just in front of Jumeirah Beach Residence. Located along the beachfront, it is just a few minutes stroll away from Dubai Marina, home to The First Group’s latest prestigious hotel apartment development; TFG Marina Hotel. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=090412091529399299642 090412091529399299642 Mon, 09 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100 Dubai Lifestyle News When it comes to the financial elite's trends in terms of property investment, Dubai has been singled out as one of the most important destinations in the world.According to the Dubai Chronicle, the emirate has been named vitally important as a honey pot for the most affluent in the Middle East on the 2012 edition of the Wealth Report, launched by Knight Frank and Citi Private Bank.Prices of luxury abodes have contributed to forming this study, which found that stability, business transparency and education systems are important in forming a good place for the most prosperous people to live.Monaco remains the most expensive location, followed by Cap Ferrat, London, Hong Kong, Paris and New York.Editor of The Wealth Report Andrew Shirley told the newspaper: "[Prime property markets] are considered 'safe haven locations' [and] continue to attract private investors looking for both prime residential and commercial property."Yesterday, Gulf News reported that the Land Department claims property transaction growth in Dubai reflects the emirate's economic progress. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801335302 801335302 Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:58:40 +0100 Posted by Bob Brunskill Dubai Property News Some of those who invest in property in the UAE may have had the chance to attend a wedding in Dubai - and if so, they will know that nuptial celebrations are not done by halves in the emirate.Speaking to Gulf News, wedding planner and managing director of Carousel Zainab Al Salih explained that a couple these days should look to spend a minimum of between AED 300,000 (£51,580) and AED 500,000 on their big day."Based on our experiences of organising mid to high-range weddings, we can say that a realistic budget would be anywhere between AED 1,200 and AED 1,500 per guest," she added.And the industry is embracing the modern fashion for celebrity-style marriages and Atlantis The Palm on the Palm Jumeirah promises just such an experience with its packages for brides and grooms, with these ranging from AED 300 per person to AED 430 per guest.Image consultant Nina Iskandar agrees with this and said the perfect dress should not cost less than AED 15,000 for a Dubai wedding. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801335273 801335273 Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:54:44 +0100 Posted by Bob Brunskill Dubai Lifestyle News People looking to buy commercial property in Dubai may have spent some time at one of the many Jumeirah hotels in the emirate while scouting for new investment opportunities.The organisation managed the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, the Madinat, the Zebeel Saray and the iconic Burj Al Arab and is currently wishing its global ambassador Rory McIlroy good luck in the 76th Masters tournament this weekend.Jumeirah has been partnered with the young golfer since September 2007 and describes him as "a richly talented, ambitious young international sportsman with the world at his feet", adding that the company shares his dream of being the best in the world.Last month, the organisation sent its congratulations to McIlroy after his Honda Classic victory at the PGA National Game in Florida, a win that secured the golfer as the best in the sport's official rankings for the very first time. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801335261 801335261 Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:52:47 +0100 Posted by Bob Brunskill Dubai Lifestyle News One of the stars of the 3-D blockbuster movie Avatar is coming to Dubai to play a DJ set in one of the emirate's hottest night spots.Those making investments in property in the UAE may already be familiar with the XL Beach Club at the Habtoor Grand - and next week on April 13th, Gulf News has reported Michelle Rodriguez will be spinning some records at the popular venue.The actress - who also starred in Lost, Fast and Furious and SWAT - has already done a set at celebrity favourite Cirque Du Soir, where she performed on April 3rd.Lebanese singer and songwriter Ramy Ayash is also coming to Dubai and will hold a gig at the Cavali Club at the Fairmont Hotel - another venue that is often frequented by the global glitterati.Rodriguez is following in the footsteps of fellow A-lister Nicole Scherzinger, as the former Pussycat Doll has also done a DJ set at Cirque Du Soir. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801334871 801334871 Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:28:17 +0100 Posted by Neil King Dubai Lifestyle News The quality and quantity of property investment in Dubai is indicative of the economic strengthening of the emirate.This is according to Sultan Butti Bin Mejren, director-general of the Land Department, who told Gulf News that the value of these purchases reflects the return of the sector to normal levels, increased investor awareness and the maturity of the real estate market.A 12 per cent increase in mortgages was recorded in Dubai in 2011, with these loans representing 60 per cent of the deals conducted last year.Bin Mejren said: "The transactions' quantity, quality and procedures reflect the recovery and growth of the real estate market in Dubai."This week, Arabian Business reported that property deals surged by 5.3 per cent between January and March in the emirate, according to figures from the Land Department.However, there is still room for improvement, as the sector is yet to beat record transactions processed in 2008. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801334268 801334268 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:52:29 +0100 Posted by Neil King Dubai Investment News Investors with property in the UAE are probably used to bumping into celebrities in Dubai, but senior political figures may be more of a novelty.Indeed, this week residents may very well spot British chancellor of the exchequer George Osborne, who - according to the Khaleej Times - is in the emirate to meet vice president and prime minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.The royal met the Conservative political today (April 4th) at Za'beel Palace to discuss economic, financial and political issues in the context of relations between the two counties.Am eagerness was stressed by Sheikh Mohammed about regional stability and protecting the security, welfare and peace of Dubai's people.In addition to conveying prime minister David Cameron's regards to the UAE ruler, Mr Osborne also discussed the latest developments in the region and the Middle East, further forging the UK's relationship with the emirates. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801334266 801334266 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:51:38 +0100 Posted by Bob Brunskill Dubai Lifestyle News Those looking for Dubai property investment opportunities may be interested in the emirate because it has star quality - and one big name from the small screen has claimed she is in the glittering city for health reasons.The Only Way Is Essex's Amy Childs is staying in the metropolis to shoot her 2013 calendar, but the reality television star also claims she chose the location for her fitness - presumably due to the abundance of top-quality gyms and swimming pools.However, the celebrity has admitted that after weeks of sticking to a gruelling exercise and diet regime for her latest wellbeing DVD, just being in such a luxurious place tempted her to indulge a little and she told Now Magazine that she had a couple of cocktails the night before and started the day with a plate of spaghetti bolognese.Just last month, Childs' colleagues from the hit show Kirk Norcross and Sam Faiers jetted to Dubai for a getaway, with Norcross even partying with Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan, who is a fan of the series. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801334161 801334161 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:31:27 +0100 Posted by Bob Brunskill Dubai Lifestyle News Kenya's technology sector has been given a funding boost after the World Bank said it would be giving a huge grant to the nation.Around Sh4.5 billion will be put towards making Kenya the global leader for mobile phone applications, helping developers create simple solutions for everyday situations.This is likely to create jobs across the country, improve internet access and create an environment for people to create new technology, businessdailyafrica.com reports.Johannes Zutt, the World Bank country director for Kenya, is quoted by the news provider as saying that there are many benefits to be had from technology."Information technology has on average contributed one percentage point to Kenya's growth since 2000, and opened a path for achieving remarkable improvements in transparency and also in governance," he explained.It comes after the International Monetary Fund said last month that the Kenyan economy will improve in 2012, growing by five per cent. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801333036 801333036 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:28:10 +0100 Posted by Neil King Kenya property and investment news Dubai's international passenger traffic went up by 19 per cent in February, surpassing the 4.5 million mark for the second month in a row.This may be of interest to those with property in the UAE who are looking to increase their portfolios for holiday rentals, as the emirate's appeal as a tourism destination continues to grow.Travellers from Gulf Co-operation Council nations rose the most, followed by people from the Indian subcontinent, Western Europe and Africa.February's leap day also accounted for the rise, with this additional 24 hours potentially contributing to Dubai International Airport's overall performance for the year.Chief executive officer of Dubai Airports Paul Griffiths said: "February marks the 12th consecutive month with passenger traffic exceeding the four million mark ... we are well on track to achieve the targeted 56.5 million passenger traffic for 2012."This week, the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing revealed that from January to September 2011, 6.64 million guests stayed at hotels in Dubai, which is up 11 per cent on 2010, while guest nights climbed 26 per cent to 23.9 million. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801333926 801333926 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:44:44 +0100 Posted by Bob Brunskill Dubai Lifestyle News Indians spend more in Dubai property investment opportunities than other foreign nationals, it has been revealed.According to the Dubai Land Department, natives of the subcontinent purchased AED 2.1 billion ($360 million) in dwellings last year, the Indian Express reports.The government office did not mention what the national identity of the second-largest group of buyers were, however people who are UAE-born came in third, having invested AED 1.5 billion.New money flowing into the emirate's buzzing property market last year totalled AED 13.1 billion, according to the department, with Asians making up 68 per cent of the overall investors.A spokesman stated: "The Indians topped the list of new investors in Dubai properties and conducted 927 transactions. This represents 16 per cent of the overall value of transactions carried out by new investors."This week, Arabian Business has reported that property transactions in Dubai were up 53 per cent in the first quarter of 2012. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801333886 801333886 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:03:58 +0100 Posted by Bob Brunskill Dubai Property News Thousands of visitors flocked to the Dubai Marina Promenade recently to enjoy entertainment from 30 of the world’s top street performers. Organisers say the 10 day Dubai Marina Street Festival was a spectacular success, attracting 65% more spectators this year compared to last. From gravity defying acrobatics and fire breathing, to unicyclists and tight rope walking, the Dubai Marina area was buzzing with excitement, as crowds gathered to enjoy the al fresco festival. The free of charge event took place on the promenade outside the Dubai Marina Mall, which is home to more than 140 retail outlets.  http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=040412071311820308701 040412071311820308701 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100 Dubai Lifestyle News Dubai’s property market is becoming more and more buoyant, according to experts in the real estate sector. Figures from the Dubai Land Department (DLD) reveal the number of properties sold in Dubai in the first quarter of 2012 rose by 54%, with the value of property also up by 32% compared to the same period last year. That’s an impressive increase to Dh5.24 billion from Dh3.96 billion in Q1 2011. The best performing areas include Emirates Hills, Jumeirah Beach Residence and Dubai Marina, which is home to The First Group’s latest hotel apartment development; the prestigious TFG Dubai Marina Hotel. The 4 star hotel property will occupy a prime location, within walking distance of the beach front and a multitude of retail and leisure facilities.   http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=040412071339858207201 040412071339858207201 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100 Dubai Property News As more exciting property in the UAE is developed, further pushing the boundaries of modern architecture, the Dubai tourism market is growing from strength to strength.According to the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), new figures have shown the industry's performance - in terms of bringing visitors to this small corner of the Middle East in the first three quarters of 2011 - have been impressive.It is Dubai that is leading this success - and the emirate has now been considered a mainstream destination for overseas travellers for over a decade now.From January to September 2011, 6.64 million guests stayed at hotels in the city, which is up 11 per cent on 2010, while guest nights climbed 26 per cent to 23.9 million."The impressive gains made during the January-September period last year reflect the inspiring public-private sector partnership to tap the tourism potential of Dubai," Khalid a bin Sulayem, DTCM director general, said. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801333102 801333102 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 16:47:46 +0100 Posted by Bob Brunskill Dubai Lifestyle News Residents living in property in the UAE may have participated in Earth Hour 2012 on March 31st - and according to reports, this year's effort to be green was Dubai's most successful yet.According to Gulf News, the emirate saved 216 MW of power during the 60-minute period of having as many lights and electric appliances switched off as possible.This is an increase of six per cent compared to Earth Hour 2011, with record numbers of government departments, businesses and householders taking part by joining others with an environmental conscience on candlelit vigils and recycling drives.Saeed Mohammad Al Tayer, vice-chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and MD and chief executive officer of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, told the newspaper: "Environmental awareness is increasing every year. The increase in savings over the last year also reflects on the positive behaviour."Earth Hour was launched in 2007 and is currently celebrated all over the world, with more countries participating every year. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801332917 801332917 Tue, 03 Apr 2012 15:29:36 +0100 Posted by Neil King Dubai Lifestyle News Those with property in the UAE will know the nation is one that is growing in environmental-awareness - and leading this eco-friendly charge is major Dubai hotel developer Jumeirah.The organisation has announced that its eco agenda has been recognised, with its five-star Emirates Towers being handed Green Globe Certification (GGC).It was given the accolade thanks to keeping in line with its Corporate Social Responsibility programme which has implemented changes including reducing water usage and controlling air conditioning so it is only in action when people are in the immediate area.But Jumeirah is not resting on its laurels, as it has announced plans to reduce energy consumption by five per cent this year through initiatives such as installing LED lighting and energy-efficient coolers.The GGC is one of the most recognised industry stamps for sustainability in the tourism industry and so far more than 800 establishments in 50 countries have met its exacting standards. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801332078 801332078 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:50:39 +0100 Posted by Bob Brunskill Dubai Lifestyle News Investors buying in Dubai appear to have had more success in the first quarter of 2012 than previously, as it has been revealed that property transactions surged by 5.3 per cent between January and March.This is according to official figures from the Dubai Land Department, which revealed that during this time there were 654 sales - including apartments, villas and townhouses - with the value of these dealings climbing 32 per cent to $1.43 billion (£890 million), Arabian Business reports.There is still room for further improvement in the emirate's property market, as transaction rates still have some way to go before they reach the heights last seen during the boom of 2008.Four years ago, the sector was thriving, when 1,500 transactions worth $5.09 billion took place - and 2012's current figures are 71 per cent below this figure.Last week, Emaar revealed that tends in property investment in Dubai proved 2011 was the best for villa sales, with revenue from these houses jumping 85 per cent. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801332035 801332035 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:42:56 +0100 Posted by Neil King Dubai Property News Those hunting for opportunities for property investment in Dubai may want to look at apartments and other developments near to new tram stations and lines, as it has been revealed proximity to the Metro has a positive impact on house values.According to a joint study by the Roads and Transport Authority's Strategic Planning Department and Dubai Real Estate Regulatory Agency, dwellings that are close to these travel hubs have gone up in price by more than one-third (34 per cent) since 2009.Rental rates near operational stations in the Bur Dubai area of the metropolis and Al Barsha have already seen increases of ten per cent, according to Asteco, which noted that when the new Green Line goes live, there could be another home appreciation surge.It seems more of those on the lookout for aparements in Dubai are commuters favouring good transport links.The trend for property in the UAE close to tram stations going up may be reflected in Abu Dhabi, as Gulf News revealed last week the city will soon get its own light rail network. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801332003 801332003 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:36:30 +0100 Posted by Neil King Dubai Property News Properties in Kenya could be about to see a boost over the coming months after Etihad Airways began flying to the country from China last weekend.The firm flew its inaugural passenger flight to Jomo Kenyatta International airport in Nairobi, making it the first for the company in east Africa.Furthermore, Etihad is now looking at venturing into west Africa in the coming years as it looks to expand its operations. In the meantime, Kenya could be set to benefit from tourism growth.Etihad Airways president and chief executive officer James Hogan said that he is delighted that the company is touching down in Kenya."This year will see considerable growth for us within Africa as a whole, as we observe strong and emerging markets across the continent," he explained."In particular, this new route services the considerable and growing flow of people and capital between Kenya and North Asia, with major Chinese investment in Africa generating passenger demand in both directions."Meanwhile, a new report by the Fresh Produce Exporters Association of Kenya said that the country's export market is continuing to grow. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801331997 801331997 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:35:00 +0100 Posted by Neil King Kenya property and investment news Those with property in the UAE will know that the region is blessed with year-round sunshine - and one celebrity who has been spotted enjoying the warm climate is model and footballer's wife Abbey Crouch.The 25-year old and her daughter Sophia have been spied by the Daily Mail playing together on the beach in Dubai, with the young mother taking pictures of her one-year-old with her phone - perhaps sending them home to husband Peter Crouch, who did not join them due to professional commitments.Crouch and her little one have been staying at the five-star Grosvenor House Hotel and this is her second time at the luxury residence, as she brought her mother over for the opening in November 2011.Other famous names to have jetted to Dubai in the past week include Made in Chelsea's Hugo Taylor and new squeeze Natalie Joes, who were joined by co-stars Spencer Matthews and Louise Thompson in the emirate. http://www.thefirstgroup.com/dubai-property-investment-news/article.php?id=801331639 801331639 Mon, 02 Apr 2012 13:19:12 +0100 Posted by Bob Brunskill Dubai Lifestyle News