In 2020, I made the bold decision to step out of my comfort zone.
Islam EL Dafrawy, Founder & CEO, Urban Properties
Early Beginnings in Dubai
Arriving in Dubai, I began my career at the Commercial Bank of Dubai, armed with a solid financial background. Soon after, I transitioned to real estate by joining Emaar Development in 2008—just before the global recession hit. Over nearly 16 years with one developer, I experienced a steep learning curve, embracing challenges and celebrating milestones with passion. My daily commitment was fueled by genuine love for what I did, shaping my understanding of the market and the intricacies of real estate development.
The Leap Beyond Comfort
After nearly two decades, I reached a pivotal moment. Despite the comfort and consistency that 16 years had offered, I recognized the importance of growth and innovation. In 2020, I made the bold decision to step out of my comfort zone. The challenge was clear: leverage my accumulated expertise in sales, development, and market trends to create something entirely new. This turning point marked the birth of Urban Properties; a move driven by the desire to continually push boundaries and redefine my professional journey.
Urban Properties: A New Paradigm in Consultancy
Urban Properties is far from a traditional brokerage. We provide comprehensive consultancy services for developers, especially those launching their first or second projects. Our advisory spans land acquisition, stability studies, asset mixes, sizing, pricing strategies, and product creation. By aligning the latest market insights with design excellence, we make sure every project is crafted to truly reflect the needs of both developers and end users, ensuring maximum revenue potential and customer satisfaction.
Velor: Setting a New Benchmark
Our latest standout project, Velor, developed by Ginco Properties, perfectly embodies our vision. Velor is designed to address a significant market gap; demand for spacious, meticulously planned commercial spaces in an era of shrinking sizes. With carefully calibrated details in floor plans, pricing, finishes, and material selection, Velor ticks every box for modern customers seeking luxury without compromise. Urban Properties continues to redefine industry standards, driven by innovation, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
