In conversation with Ahmed Al Suwaidi, Managing Director – Residential Communities, Dubai Holding Asset Management
Tell us about the goals and objectives of DAM’s residential segment in 2022.
In the last couple of years and with the growing instances of work from home, we see that residents are increasingly seeking houses that provide a higher quality of life – whether that’s in terms of space, neighbourhood ambiance or greener areas. People are also placing more emphasis on their local community where they can feel a sense of belonging and enjoy convenient, walkable access to everyday amenities, such as community centres with supermarkets, nurseries and even casual F&B options. To cater to these changing needs and retain our diverse residents, we will carry on with our efforts to enhance our neighbourhoods, their facilities and organising engaging events to maintain world-class living experiences for our more than 100,000 residents across all communities.
We are a long-trusted partner in providing secure and reliable accommodations and aim to uphold that reputation. Our residents are at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to ensuring that every upgrade, new development or project we take on is inspired by their comfort and experience.
Dubai Asset Management employs a data-driven approach to developing diversified communities, from luxury, high- or mid- communities to staff and labour accommodations in strategic locations across Dubai. We keep a finger on the pulse of our customer segments and their evolving behaviours and remain committed to providing an accommodating environment for an enriching living experience, anticipating the needs of our individual and corporate tenants alike.
Tell us about DAM’s continuous investment in improving its facilities in its communities?
Dubai has earned its global reputation for delivering unrivalled living experiences, and the determination to keep residential offerings in step with changing trends is an integral value. As part of our commitment to provide the best possible services to all our residents, we regularly carry out a wide range of community improvement projects.
2022 has been off to a great start with the launch of a brand-new community centre in Ghoroob Square, which houses lively retail and dining experiences, as well as an award-winning nursery, with plenty more in the pipeline. At some of our destinations, we’ll be updating common areas and landscaping to keep up with contemporary tastes, as well as kids play areas and outdoor gyms with the newest equipment.
One of our key priorities this year is to support the UAE’s sustainability agenda across our community. As such, we are installing electric car charging stations at select communities as well as introducing solar panelling at car parks to generate renewable energy.
What makes most of these communities in DAM’s residential portfolio unique?
Our communities are inclusive and a true reflection of the city’s diversity and leading global standing which contribute to making Dubai one of the world’s best cities in which to live, work and visit. Providing reliable housing is key to the UAE’s future plans, and each of our residential properties offer an unmatched quality of life by implementing best practices for design, urban planning as well as human-centric spaces. From family-friendly communities at Layan, Ghoroob, Shorooq to upscale living at Bluewaters Residences and Dubai Wharf, we deliver amenities specific to our resident’s needs.
What role does DAM’s residential segment play in improving the quality of life and sustainability within these communities?
We understand the importance of providing future-proof and resilient communities designed around the needs of residents. We are strategically aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan goals that focus on creating sustainable urban communities to raise the happiness bar, promote wellbeing and provide quality living for residents. Enhancements, ongoing maintenance and upgrades have a considerable role to play in minimising our environmental footprint, leveraging new technologies and delivering high-calibre residences.
Several communities, such as Remraam, Layan and Ghoroob also offer vibrant landscaped areas, playgroups, sports courts and more. The Dubai AM Life app increases convenience for our residents, so they can pay rent, complete lease renewals and report service requests anywhere, anytime online, while supporting Dubai’s ambition to become a paperless city.
How is DAM boosting the real estate and tourism industry in UAE?
Dubai’s multi-pronged strategy to stay open, safe and accessible lays the groundwork for an accelerated recovery that received a major boost with the opening of Expo 2020 Dubai and the UAE Golden Jubilee celebrations. Paired with the most prominent changes to UAE law in history aimed at cementing the country’s position as an attractive destination for investment and talent, this has spurred an influx of remote workers, tourists and new businesses to the city – some of whom are investing in properties in Dubai because of the high quality of life available here.
Dubai Asset Management’s leasing portfolio addresses every aspect of the emirate’s accommodation landscape with the aim of providing ideal solutions for individuals, families and corporate workers alike, making us an ideal choice for newcomers. We cater to a wealth of different lifestyles where people can enjoy enriched living experiences no matter their budget and access to key amenities and retail offerings within our communities while our strategic locations provide residents seamless access to popular urban centres and leading retail destinations.
Moving forward, what are the future projects in the pipeline?
Retaining our tenants is the key to our reputation and success, and we are currently focusing our efforts on enhancing existing offerings within our portfolio. More than just a unit to rent, we create a lifestyle, and regular community enrichments play a role in ensuring the satisfaction and comfort of our residents. This includes updating our digital solutions with tenant feedback and new developments in technology. We have a highly skilled team of software developers and UX designers who make continuous improvements to the app and add new features to provide a best-in-class digital experience for everyone.