Dubai Holding has announced plans to launch an initial public offering (IPO) for its Dubai Residential REIT, marking a significant step in the region’s real estate investment landscape.
The REIT, focused solely on residential leasing, is set to list on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) around May 28.
The offering will comprise 1.625 billion shares through DHAM REIT Management LLC, a subsidiary of Dubai Holding. Currently, DHAM Investments — another subsidiary — is the sole unitholder of the REIT. The subscription window for investors is scheduled from May 13 to 20.
Dubai Residential REIT is a Shariah-compliant, income-generating closed-ended fund under establishment, managing over 35,700 residential units across 21 communities and housing more than 140,000 residents. With a gross asset value of AED 21.63 billion, it is positioned to become the largest listed REIT in the GCC, nearly doubling the combined value of the five largest REITs currently in the region.
The REIT plans to adopt a semi-annual dividend distribution policy, with its first payouts expected in September 2025 and April 2026. These are projected to exceed AED 1.1 billion in total, subject to board approval, and will represent 80% of profits before fair value adjustments.
Amit Kaushal, Group CEO of Dubai Holding, called the IPO a “natural evolution” of the company’s strategy, highlighting the integration of Nakheel and Meydan’s portfolios last year. Malek Al Malek, Group CEO of Dubai Holding Asset Management, emphasized the REIT's potential to offer sustainable returns and broader investor access to Dubai’s growing residential sector.
With a tenant mix of 43% corporate and 57% individual residents, the REIT reflects Dubai’s diverse and expanding population — and its increasing global investment appeal.
News Source: Khaleej Times
