As various sectors begin to rise from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Medallion Associates, a leading private real estate investment advisory firm. Market experts in the UAE are looking at the strength of private equity and fund structural investments considering the healthy flow of foreign direct investments (FDI) into the country in 2019, which has jumped to more than 34 percent amounting to about USD 14 billion from USD 10.4 billion in 2018.
Real estate developers and operators across almost every asset class are facing the potential long-term impact of the novel coronavirus outbreak and are re-examining their business models to adapt to the challenges during the crisis. This scenario has led to market analysts exploring new opportunities for institutional investors to focus on other real estate assets such as warehousing, logistics and data centers to be a new haven for investments.
Masood Al Awar, Chief Executive Officer, Medallion Associates, said: “The UAE has always showcased its innovativeness and is at the global forefront even during major challenges such as the current pandemic and we have seen them in the country’s exceptional response such as rolling out of stimulus packages, easing on regulations, and reduction of fees. These quick actions can lead to an increase in the loan-to-value ratio applicable to mortgages, which is a solid step in supporting the real estate sector.”
Medallion Associates examined market scenarios which indicated that while real estate investments in offices, residential, and retail complexes remain quiet, other segments are facing upward trends and present a more stable option to outperform other asset classes in real estate in the near term.
The private real estate investment advisory firm noted that as experts, they observed the various investor personalities in the market even at the beginning of this unprecedented situation and witnessed many seasoned investors kept their composure and stay focused on their long-term objectives, while many others as well had to deal with uncertainties as the value of their portfolio declined and thus required different types of support from their relationship managers and wealth advisers.
Market studies show that in recent years, real estate industry leaders have been diversifying their sources of revenue by exploring digital strategies and enhancing tenant experiences. Considering these factors, the COVID-19 crisis has prompted the sector to accelerate these types of strategic change.
Investors can benefit from low mortgage interest rates, higher LTVs (loan to value), reduced service charges and attractive valuations to make the best of their investments at present. In addition, the market-friendly policies of the UAE offer investors the security and viability of their investments.
