From Modest Salaries to Million-Dirham Commissions: How UAE Realtors Are Thriving in Dubai’s Booming Market

Dubai’s real estate industry has become a goldmine for ambitious agents, transforming lives with unprecedented success stories. Many realtors, who once earned modest salaries, are now making millions in commissions, navigating a highly competitive market. Their journey to success is marked by relentless determination, strategic investments, and the ability to adapt to the dynamic real estate sector.

A Leap of Faith: From Ordinary Jobs to Real Estate Giants

Egyptian expatriate Rasha Ibrahim arrived in the UAE in 2007 as a cabin crew member, earning a monthly salary of Dh6,000. However, fate had different plans for her. She ventured into real estate, and last year, she closed property deals worth nearly Dh2 billion. Her transformation from an airline employee to a leading real estate agent is nothing short of inspiring.

Similarly, Uzbek national Ahmedov left behind a promising legal career to explore the lucrative real estate sector in Dubai. His bold decision paid off when he secured his most significant deal in 2023—a stunning villa worth Dh205 million.

Russian realtor Vladimir Minaev, who moved to the UAE in 2015, faced a language barrier but worked tirelessly to master English. His dedication has paid off, making him the top agent at Metropolitan Real Estate for four consecutive years. One of his landmark deals was leasing an apartment for Dh4.4 million—one of the highest rental transactions in Dubai’s history.

Reaping the Rewards: Luxury Purchases and Smart Investments

With substantial commissions, these top real estate agents have indulged in luxury purchases while making strategic investments. Artur, a realtor at Espace Real Estate, fulfilled his dream by purchasing two Mercedes Benz G-Class SUVs—one for himself and another for his wife.

Vladimir, on the other hand, believes in maintaining an elite image in the luxury property market. His spending focuses on high-end clothing, premium watches, and luxury cars. “In this industry, you need to carry yourself in a certain manner. It’s not about showing off; it’s about connecting with clients,” he explained. He once bonded with a client over their shared appreciation for Patek Philippe watches, turning a casual conversation into a business opportunity.

Rasha, known for her financial prudence, invested her highest commission of Dh2.5 million in real estate. She purchased a three-bedroom beachfront property for Dh6.7 million, which has since doubled in value and currently rents for Dh550,000 annually. “Real estate is the most secure investment,” she remarked.

Vitaly Gamayunov, a broker at Whitewill, marked his biggest achievement in 2024 by selling a penthouse on Bluewaters Island for Dh84 million. To celebrate, he took a luxurious vacation in the Maldives, experiencing unparalleled relaxation at the JOALI Being resort.

Overcoming Challenges in a Competitive Industry

Success in real estate does not come without hurdles. Rasha’s interest in the field began after a disappointing experience with her broker. Determined to do better, she studied the market thoroughly. When she purchased her first apartment on an Dh11,000 salary—of which Dh8,200 went toward her mortgage—she struggled financially but remained persistent.

For nearly a decade, she juggled her aviation career with real estate. “I would fly for 12-13 hours, return, head straight to property viewings, and then go back to the airport, changing into my uniform in the car,” she recalled.

In 2018, she transitioned full-time into real estate, joining a developer. However, the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted her progress, leading to job loss. Undeterred, she continued working during peak Covid times, even risking her health to close a deal.

Indian realtor Himanshu Sharma, who joined the industry in 2006, faced his biggest setback during the 2008 financial crisis. He had just purchased a Dh3.6 million apartment in Dubai Marina when the market crashed. Many of his clients lost money as developers abandoned projects. Since then, he has focused solely on the secondary market, selling only ready-to-move-in properties to avoid similar risks. Today, he manages a portfolio of over 3,000 investors, specializing in the DIFC area.

Artur built his expertise in Palm Jumeirah properties, gaining recognition during the pandemic. He primarily serves Emirati clients and has helped many triple their investments within two to three years. “I turned a challenging time into an opportunity,” he said.

Specialization and Going the Extra Mile

The most successful realtors in Dubai specialize in specific niches. Vladimir dominates the luxury property market, selling two adjacent Bvlgari villas in Jumeirah Bay Village for Dh160 million last year. After earning his commission, he stayed at a Bvlgari resort in Bali to deepen his understanding of the brand. “To sell luxury properties, you must experience them firsthand,” he noted.

He also researches his clients’ interests before meetings. “One client was passionate about Tesla stocks, another loved football. Before meeting them, I always catch up on the latest news in their fields. We’re not just selling properties; we’re building relationships.”

Rasha is known for her 24/7 availability. “If a client calls at 3 AM, I answer. If I’m not available, someone else will be.” Despite months of effort, clients sometimes finalize deals with other agents. “That’s common in this industry, but I stay in touch and help them with other properties,” she said.

Artur often sacrifices family time for work. “Sometimes, I start a movie with my wife and son, but a client call interrupts. By the time I finish, my son is asleep.” To make up for lost time, he pampers his wife. “She sacrifices a lot so I can do my job. We succeed together.”

The Reality of the Real Estate Industry

While top agents earn millions, the road to success is grueling. Many struggle in their early days. “Rookie agents think real estate is easy money,” Rasha cautioned. “But it’s a stressful field with no fixed schedule. Newcomers should have financial reserves for six to eight months before seeing returns. Even after their first sale, they never know when the next one will come.”

Dubai’s real estate market offers immense potential, but success requires perseverance, adaptability, and strategic networking. For those willing to go the extra mile, the rewards are life-changing.