What’s inside?
Qatar blockades not a deterrent to economic reforms
Changes in the real estate landscape
The ins and outs of investing in Qatar real estate
What expatriates need to know about investing in Qatar real estate.
What is Qatar doing to encourage real estate investors?
What is the Qatari real estate market’s residential sector like?
Why should you invest in The Pearl-Island?
Exploring The Pearl-Island
Featured apartments for sale and for rent in The Pearl-Qatar
Invest in luxurious living at The Pearl-Island
Qatar blockades not a deterrent to economic reforms
The recent lifting of the trade embargo on Qatar and the return of diplomatic relations between Qatar and four other Gulf states (Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Egypt) sparks the resumption, not only of diplomatic ties within the Gulf Region but also of commerce and trade.
Right before the blockades were put up in 2017, Qatar was already on the cusp of opening its doors to the rest of the world and conducting business. The embargo didn’t prevent the rollout of projects to turn the country into a highly globalized and cosmopolitan nation. A number of multinational corporations began to operate within its territories and with this, expatriates started trickling in to work and live here.
Changes in the real estate landscape
With the influx of foreigners settling into Qatar, bringing with them their desires of business growth and prestige, the need for shelter that will cater to their tastes became of prime importance. Many developers are now caught in a race to develop unique and luxurious properties for this moneyed set to live and invest in.
Among these luxurious developments is The Pearl-Island, located off the coast of Qatar’s capital city of Doha.
An artificial island meant to resemble a string of pearls — a major callback to Qatar's history of pearl diving and trading — The Pearl-Qatar boasts a diverse range of luxury residential apartments, as well as hundreds of leisure areas and fine dining destinations. This unique locale and the properties found here are ripe for investment and for settling in. The rental market here, especially for apartments, throbs with activity as the inventory is relatively abundant and ready to provide the best life that Qatar can offer, notwithstanding if you’re a property owner or a tenant.
The ins and out of investing in Qatar real estate
The previous strains in ties in the Gulf region were compounded by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, Qatar prevailed over these challenges, and its real estate market is currently on a rebound. The country’s residential real estate sector is now expected to grow at an annual rate of 13% until 2026.
This positive outlook is the result of several factors, such as the country’s high GDP growth, its status as the host country for the 2022 World Cup, the steady uptick in employment opportunities for expatriates, and the recent relaxation of government policies pertaining to foreign ownership of real estate properties.
That said, there are still some things that investors — whether local or expatriate — need to know about purchasing real estate properties in Qatar.
What expatriates need to know about investing in Qatar real estate
Because of new government regulations, expatriates can now invest in two popular types of real estate properties in Qatar: freehold and leasehold.
Freehold properties include both the building and the land it stands on. Expatriates may purchase and own freehold properties in the following designated areas in the country:
West Bay Lagoon
Lusail
Pearl
Al Khor resort
Al Dafna (Administrative area 60)
Al Dafna (Administrative area 61)
Onaiza (Administrative area 63)
Al Kharaej
Jabal Thuaileb
Freehold properties include villas, townhomes, and apartments for sale in The Pearl. These properties come in a wide range of sizes and prices, depending on their location and amenities.
Leasehold properties, on the other hand, are properties in Qatar that an investor can lease for a period of 99 years. Expatriates who get leasehold properties can use them on a commercial or residential basis, transfer the lease to another party, or sublet or rent it out to others.
Similar to freehold properties, leasehold contracts are only allowed in the following designated areas within the country:
Msheireb (Area 13)
Fareej Abdulaziz (Area 14)
Al Doha Al Jadeeda (Area 15)
Al Ghanim Alateeq (Area 16)
Al Rifaa and Old Al Hitmi (Area 17)
As Salatah (Area 18)
Bin Mahmoud (Area 22)
Bin Mahmoud (Area 23)
Rawdat Al Khail (Area 24)
Al Mansoura and Fereej Bin Durham (Area 25)
Al Najma (Area 26)
Umm Ghuwailina (Area 27)
Al Khulaifat (Area 28)
Al Sadd (Area 38)
Al Mirqab Al Jadeed and Fereej Al Nasr (Area 39)
Doha International Airport (Area 48)
What is Qatar doing to encourage real estate investors?
Expatriates with plans of purchasing real estate in the country soon will be given special perks courtesy of the Qatari government. This is in line with its push toward diversification of the economy in an effort to let go of its dependence on fossil fuels. This move is also anticipatory in nature as Qatar is preparing itself for the entry of foreign capital ahead of the 2022 World Cup.
Here are some of the extra real estate-related benefits that Qatar is making available to expatriates:
Expatriates who purchase real estate property that's worth at least 730,000 Qatari Rial (QR) or approximately USD$200,000 in today’s exchange rates, will earn permanent residency for themselves and their families without employer sponsorship — provided that they stay in the country 90 days a year.
Those who purchase properties worth at least QR 3.65 million (around USD 1 million) will also gain permanent residency for themselves and their families without employer sponsorship — but with extra perks. Foreign investors will also receive certain government benefits such as free education and healthcare, as well as exclusive investment opportunities in certain economic sectors.
What is the Qatari real estate market’s residential sector like?
At present, the Qatari residential sector is a buyer’s market. This means that buyers have the advantage of an abundant stock of properties to choose from.
In terms of pricing, the rates at which homes here are being sold are relatively affordable. To illustrate, the median transaction price for residential homes stands at around QAR 2.5 million or USD 686,625 — slightly more reasonably priced than in some U.S. megacities like Los Angeles and New York City.
These rates, coupled with the abundance of residential and commercial properties and the loosening of government regulations, make real estate properties in the area more accessible than ever to expatriates.
Moreover, because Qatar’s new laws now allow foreign investors to convert their real estate properties into rentals, these purchases can also serve as a way to ensure a steady flow of passive income. This is a win-win situation for foreign buyers.
Why should you invest in The Pearl-Island?
Undoubtedly one of the most glamorous addresses in the Middle East, The Pearl-Island is to the region what Beverly Hills is to the US: a haven of modern luxuries and a beacon of sophistication and comfortable living.
Developed by the United Development Company, The Pearl-Qatar is a Riviera-style development worth QAR 36.4 billion (USD 10 billion) perched on a massive man-made island off the coast of Doha.
One of the very first areas to offer freehold properties to expatriates, The Pearl-Island is among the largest mixed-use developments in the Middle East. It boasts tens of thousands of beautiful luxury properties, including apartments, townhomes, and villas. It also serves as home to numerous boutiques, restaurants, resorts, and retail spaces, making it one of the most desirable locations in the entire region.
One of the sparkling gems of the Persian Gulf, The Pearl-Qatar receives well over 15 million visitors a year, making it the perfect spot for starting a business in short-term or long-term rentals.
Exploring The Pearl-Island
An awe-inspiring destination for locals and expatriates alike, The Pearl-Island is divided into 11 separate precincts or districts. Each one embodies various European and Islamic architectural styles and has its own set of attractions.
Here’s a quick guide to The Pearl-Qatar’s colorful slate of precincts and their amenities:
Abraj Quartier
Also known as the “Avenue of Towers,” this precinct is home to seven high-rise buildings that are populated mainly by offices and other commercial spaces.
Costa Malaz
A tropical-themed precinct, Costa Malaz serves as an oasis of calm and quiet luxury on the Island. A tourist draw for its many seaside and beachfront villas, Costa Malaz is also home to the Marsa Malaz Kempinski Hotel, a five-star luxury residence that’s famous for its award-winning spa.
Floresta Gardens
One of the most exclusive districts in The Pearl-Qatar, Floresta Gardens is known for its ten Mediterranean-inspired residential towers and 115 villas. Located east of Viva Bahriya, Floresta Gardens also boasts its own 3,500-square-meter shopping center, Floresta Galleria Mall.
Giardino Village
Located near Medina Centrale and Porto Arabia, Giardino Village is a tranquil, gated residential community that has some of the largest and most spacious houses in The Pearl-Island.
Isola Dana
Separated from The Pearl-Qatar’s main chain of islands, Isola Dana is composed of nine small islets where palatial mansions and estates stand. Accessible only via a private causeway, these small islands have their own beaches and protected harbors for the residents’ yachts and boats.
La Plage South
A residential area located at the western tip of the Island, La Plage South consists of several high-rise apartment buildings arranged in a unique circular fashion mirroring the shape of the shoreline. This precinct has some of the most picturesque views among the apartments for Sale in The Pearl.
Medina Centrale
The Pearl-Island’s primary retail district, the Medina Centrale boasts 600,000 square feet of retail space, as well as cinemas, public plazas, and gardens. All of these are within walking distance of its 538 Mediterranean-inspired residential units.
Perlita Gardens
A mixed villa and townhouse development located just south of Medina Centrale, Perlita Gardens is a quiet, gated community best known for its bevy of green and lush spaces and beautiful man-made lakes.
Porto Arabia
Porto Arabia serves as the location of the island’s primary harbor, as well as residential towers and townhouses. Boasting gorgeous details such as Mediterranean-inspired architecture, Porto Arabia also serves as home to a mix of indoor and outdoor retail outlets and restaurants.
Qanat Quartier
Exuding Venetian charm, Qanat Quartier boasts several canals and other bodies of water, including Lido Venezia — considered to be Qatar’s cleanest beach. It is also home to some of the most beautiful low-rise waterfront buildings and luxury apartments in The Pearl.
Viva Bahriya
Meant to echo the majesty of the Arab Maghreb, the precinct of Viva Bahriya is the site of luxury villas and apartments inspired by Moroccan architecture. One of the quieter districts, Viva Bahriya offers a more relaxed atmosphere to its residents, making it appealing to those who wish to have a respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Because of its many attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do in The Pearl-Qatar. These include enjoying a hearty Indian meal at Jwala, booking an appointment at the Diva Lounge Spa, shopping at some of the community’s many retail establishments, and enjoying a tasty Middle Eastern meal at the famous Arabesque Restaurant.
Featured apartments for sale and for rent in The Pearl
Properties for sale
An enclave of luxury and comfort, The Pearl is home to some of the best residential properties that you can buy in the entire Arab region. Here are some of them:
Three-bedroom casa
Qanat Quartier
A beautiful and spacious house, this luxury property boasts excellent details such as a well-equipped kitchen, bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, and a full bathroom complete with a bathtub. The property is also just a short walk away from some of the best beaches that Qatar has to offer, making it a great investment for either a family or a young professional.
Three-bedroom apartment
Viva Bahriya
Sold semi-furnished, this property is known for its top-of-the-line features, such as a fully-equipped kitchen, three master bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, and two allocated parking spaces.
The building housing this unit is decked with a wide array of facilities, such as a swimming pool, gym, entertainment room, function room, and kids' playing areas. Easy access to the beach is a plus.
Your safety and on-the-dot assistance are assured with the building’s 24/7 concierge and security service.
Properties for rent
Meanwhile, here are some of the lovely apartments for rent that are only available in The Pearl:
One-bedroom unit
Medina Centrale
For a 15-month rental contract, you get a lovely semi-furnished unit with built-in kitchen appliances, one allocated parking space, and 24/7 concierge and security. If you’re a busy traveler who’s constantly on the move, this unit will fit your lifestyle.
Three-bedroom apartment
Qanat Quartier
For those bringing in family for the duration of their stay in The Pearl-Island , this spacious apartment unit will give enough elbow room for playful, growing kids. Semi-furnished with a fully-equipped kitchen and built-in appliances, this unit also has enormous windows that lead to a private balcony for an unfettered view of the Piazza. Two allocated parking spaces are available, plus round-the-clock security detail.
Invest in luxurious living at The Pearl-Island
Living a life of luxury and comfort at The Pearl-Island in Doha is well within your reach, especially if you have 25 Spaces Real Estate to act as your guide
25 Spaces Real Estate offers sales, leasing, and property management services related to luxury properties in Qatar’s premier developments.
As one of the country’s leading local real estate agencies, our team provides top-quality customer service to foreign clients who wish to invest in the Qatari housing market.
Equipped with nearly a decade’s worth of experience, we at 25 Spaces Real Estate can help you in navigating the legal and cultural nuances involved in purchasing and renting real estate properties in the Middle East.
Proof of our expertise can be found in our clients’ testimonials:
“I have been dealing with 25 Spaces Real Estate since 2017, and I always receive good quality of service, fast process time, and most of all, honesty and support. I am a very happy client and I highly recommend them!”
- Carmen Haddad
“This was my first experience working with this office and they are quick to respond, understanding of all my concerns, and extremely human to work with! Fantastic team and well organized.”
- Fatima Al Mahdi
"We have had a very long and excellent experience with 25 Spaces Real Estate since 2013. The management and staff always show their professional skills and [use] efficient communication to meet our needs. We truly appreciate their services."
- Amal Allatif
Read more of our clients' testimonials here.
Aside from The Pearl-Island, 25 Spaces Real Estate handles luxury properties in other Qatari locations such as Lusail City, West Bay Lagoon, and West Bay. Our team also has exclusive offline properties that interested investors can view upon request.
Whether you’re on the search for a spacious luxury townhouse, a high-end apartment, or a grand Mediterranean-style mansion on a private island at The Pearl-Island, trust that 25 Spaces Real Estate will help you in getting the property you desire most.
For more insights, read our recent articles:
https://25spaces.com/blog/whats-makes-living-in-the-pearl-qatar-special-and-unforgettable
https://25spaces.com/blog/exploring-the-neighbourhood-must-visit-places-in-pearl-qatar
Ready to get started on your real estate journey in magnificent Qatar? To get started you can contact 25 Spaces Real Estate now by calling our office +974 4464 2525 or send us an email to info@25spaces.com
