September 10, 2025

Hold onto your hats, investors! Dubai’s real estate superstar, Property Finder, just caught the eye of global giants Permira and Blackstone. These two heavyweights are jumping in to buy a $525 million minority ownership in the Dubai-based classifieds firm. According to their joint statement on Tuesday, this deal is a fiery sign that the Dubai real estate scene is still sizzling hot and attracting world-class money. What's more exciting? General Atlantic, who has been backing Property Finder since 2018, is stepping back but not out. They’re partially exiting but will stay on as a major shareholder. That means Property Finder now has the global brainpower of three private equity pros—Permira, Blackstone, and General Atlantic—to power its expansion across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The companies didn’t spill the exact valuation of this thrilling deal, which still needs regulatory approval. But here’s a spicy tidbit: this is Permira's first-ever investment in the Middle East, coming just months after they opened their Dubai office right in the heart of the city’s financial district. Why are big global firms flocking here? The Gulf is turning into a goldmine, with sovereign wealth funds swelling and a flood of regional deals on the horizon. Dubai, known as the Gulf’s buzzing business and tourism hub, is riding a post-pandemic wave of property boom. Thanks to foreign funds pouring in and smart government residency reforms, residential property prices have jumped nearly 70% over four years till December 2024, notes Knight Frank. But, not all that glitters stays golden. Reports from Fitch Ratings warn that Dubai’s housing market might see double-digit price falls starting later in 2025 through 2026. So the question is, will this rally keep roaring or start to cool off? Whatever happens, Property Finder’s deal with Permira, Blackstone, and General Atlantic shows one thing loud and clear: investors are still betting big on Dubai’s real estate future. Buckle up for an exciting journey as the company sets its sights on growing across the MENA region, powered by top global expertise and serious cash!

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Tags: Property finder, Permira, Blackstone, Dubai real estate, Private equity, Middle east,