MENA Leads Global Branded Residences Boom as Dubai Takes Top Spot
Introduction
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has emerged as the fastest-growing hub for branded residences, according to new data from Global Branded Residences (GBR). With Dubai leading globally, the region now commands an unprecedented 36% share of new branded residential projects, reshaping the global luxury real estate landscape.
MENA Tops Global Branded Residences Growth
New data from GBR reveals that MENA has taken the lead in worldwide branded residential development, marking a pivotal moment in the industry’s evolution. The region now accounts for more than a third of all global new signings — the highest of any region worldwide.
Rise of Standalone and Fashion-Branded Developments
Standalone projects, those developed without a hotel component, are reshaping the branded real estate market in MENA. These make up 31% of completed projects and 51% of the development pipeline, meaning nearly 45% of all branded residences in the region will soon be standalone — well above the global average of 36%.
Fashion brands are also driving this shift. In MENA, fashion-branded developments dominate the non-hotel category, accounting for 51% of all non-hotel branded projects, almost double the global average of 26%. Non-hotel brands in general are gaining momentum, representing 30% of the regional pipeline, up from 24% of completed stock.
Fairmont Leads Operators, New Entrants Expand Presence
Among operators, Fairmont is set to become the largest in the region, with 19 branded residential schemes across completed and pipeline stages. Jewellery brand De Grisogono ranks fourth with eight projects in development, while Nobu enters the regional market with six new schemes underway.
Dubai Dominates the Global Branded Residences Market
The global branded residential market now consists of 1,746 projects, including 779 completed and 967 in the pipeline. Of this, MENA accounts for nearly 13% of existing global supply and 25% of pipeline projects.
Dubai stands as the undisputed global leader, boasting around 160 branded projects across both completed and pipeline stages — surpassing traditional powerhouses like Miami, New York, and London.
Regional Breakdown: UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt at the Forefront
MENA’s portfolio includes 99 completed projects and 241 in the pipeline. The United Arab Emirates leads both categories with 201 total projects, followed by Saudi Arabia with 43, and Egypt with 32 in the pipeline.
This growth reflects the region’s strong investor demand, evolving luxury market, and the appeal of lifestyle-led living among both residents and international buyers.
GBR Expands Presence in Dubai
In response to the rapid regional growth, GBR has established a dedicated office in Dubai, led by Founder and Director Riyan Itani. The firm will also feature at the Branded Residences Forum at FHS World in Dubai this October.
“The Middle East has always been a beacon for branded residential excellence,” said Riyan Itani. “Having advised on some of the most ambitious projects across MENA, we’re doubling down on our commitment with dedicated in-market expertise and expanded services.”
Itani added that the region’s growth trajectory remains robust, driven by visionary planning, sustained demand, and the appeal of lifestyle-driven real estate.
A Global Perspective on GBR’s Influence
GBR has advised on more than 150 branded projects across 45 countries, collaborating with top-tier brands such as Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, One&Only, Rosewood, and Ritz-Carlton. The firm’s expansion into the Middle East follows its successful launch in the Asia Pacific region, signaling a deeper global commitment to luxury real estate markets.
Conclusion: A Transforming Landscape for Branded Living
As branded residences evolve from niche luxury to mainstream lifestyle, MENA — and Dubai in particular — continues to set the pace for innovation and scale. With growing interest from global fashion and hospitality brands, the region’s market outlook remains strong, cementing its status as a cornerstone of the next phase in branded real estate.