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Author: Gina Meintjes, 28 August 2023,
International

Seeff first to launch a real estate office in Dubai

Seeff is the first South African brand to launch a real estate office in Dubai. The office is headed up by well-established property professional and Seeff Dubai licensee, Nombasa Mawela.

Nombasa, a successful business executive and realtor from South Africa, has established herself as a prominent figure in Dubai's real estate landscape. After a successful career with Blue Chip corporations in South Africa, Nombasa ventured to Dubai a few years ago, where she is now well established, and proudly represents top developers and premier properties.

Nombasa boasts an impressive academic background, holding degrees in BSc, MSc, and MBA. Her commitment to learning and growth is ongoing, and she is currently pursuing a DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) from the esteemed Swiss Business School in Dubai.

In recognition of her exceptional achievements, Nombasa earned a place in the coveted Top Women in Dubai list in 2022, a publication which pays tribute to women who have excelled across various domains within the city. She has also been elected to the board of the South African Business Council (SABCO) of the UAE.

Dubai is one of the world’s premier cities, consistently attracting a stream of South African professionals and entrepreneurs. Among its ranks are renowned South African brands such as MTN and Multichoice, symbolising the city's appeal to top-tier businesses. Joining the growing South African presence, is the Seeff Property Group, reinforcing Dubai's allure as a hub for industry leaders and innovators.

Dubai is an attractive property destination for South Africans for a variety of reasons. Some have business in the city and need a base to work from, for others it might be a second home given the access to fabulous shopping and a great holiday. For others, it might be the opportunity to move to Dubai and obtain residency, while some may be interested in investing for the lucrative rental market.

Dubai prices are also accessible for South African buyers. While luxury villas and apartments can be very pricey, there are a number of developments priced from about R2.3 million (AED 450,000). To qualify for residency which enables you to open a UAE bank account, the minimum property investment is just below R4 million (AED 750,000).

There are now also finance options available with a mortgage loan possible to a maximum of 75% of the purchase price. Generally, the developers are very accommodating, and they offer excellent payment plans for a period of up to five years. The return on investment in Dubai ranks among the best in the world.

Nombasa says that a R4 million investment (the minimum for residency), is about what you will pay for a home in an upper middle-class suburb in South Africa. R2 million to R3 million is about the average price of a house in most suburbs these days.

Properties available range from basic studios to apartments as well as villas in beautiful settings. The most popular areas include Downtown Dubai, famous for the Burj Khalifa (tallest building in the world) and a popular shopping and tourist area which is central to most facilities. The fabulous Palm Jumeirah is home to the most expensive oceanfront villas in Dubai.

Dubai Marina is popular with Expats for its mix of good beaches and social life. Jumeirah Golf Estate is also popular with Expat families, especially those who prefer outdoor and play areas for children. It also happens to be the home of the famous DP World Golf Tournament.

Nombasa says working with Seeff Dubai provides South African investors with the peace of mind that they are dealing with a top South African real estate brand and will receive the best service possible.

Seeff Dubai contact details
The Seeff Dubai office is located in Jumeirah Lake Towers, Office 2703, JBC4, Cluster N. Contact Nombasa on Nombasa.mawela@seeff.com or call +971562440585, or the office at +97148746556 or +971562440585