Hospitality
HOW TECHNOLOGY AND GLOBAL REACH ARE RESHAPING THE FUTURE OF UAE REAL ESTATE
Attributed by Maqsood Mohommad, Founder & Chairman, AFM Holding Group
The UAE’s real estate sector is entering a pivotal new phase, one defined not by rapid expansion alone, but by strategic consolidation, smarter investment frameworks and the deep integration of technology across the value chain. As we look ahead to 2026, investors are increasingly prioritising structured solutions, data-backed insights and future-ready assets. The appetite for Dubai real estate remains strong, yet the mindset of the global investor has fundamentally shifted. Today’s buyers want clarity, measurable value propositions and the confidence that comes from operating in a regulated and technologically advanced ecosystem.
As the Founder of AFM Properties, I have witnessed firsthand how Dubai’s exceptional growth-driven by international investor interest, long-term visa programs, and solid economic fundamentals-has matured into a more selective and sustainable market. This evolution is both timely and healthy. It is pushing developers and agencies like ours to focus on quality, transparency, and long-term value creation, rather than short-term gains or transaction volume.
At AFM Properties, this shift has shaped our strategy in concrete ways. We are building smarter investment offerings, strengthening our global outreach and developing a broker network that extends far beyond the UAE. Our expanded Broker Connect Program is designed to reach international markets that have yet to fully tap into Dubai’s potential, ensuring that global investors can access high-performing opportunities with ease and transparency.
Technology sits at the heart of this transformation. Across AFM Properties, we are integrating digital tools, data analytics and automated systems to create a seamless, informed, and trustworthy investment experience. From digital-first marketing to real-time market insights, technology has become the decision-making engine for modern real estate, empowering investors anywhere in the world to evaluate opportunities clearly and make confident decisions. This mindset has become a central pillar within AFM Properties, elevating the customer experience while reinforcing the integrity of the investment process.
The UAE’s broader business environment mirrors this momentum. Diversification and innovation remain among the country’s greatest strengths, and these principles guide all AFM Holding Group ventures. For us, diversification is not simply about entering multiple industries;it is about creating interconnected ecosystems that support and enhance one another. Real estate is now deeply linked to our global outreach platforms, digital capabilities, and professional networks, enabling AFM Properties to operate with scale and agility in an increasingly competitive landscape.
As some segments of the UAE market approach saturation, global expansion becomes more critical than ever. The companies that will shape the next chapter of growth are those that reach beyond traditional markets, forge long-term international partnerships, and adopt a genuinely global mindset. Our Broker Connect Program reflects this philosophy, empowering brokers worldwide to represent Dubai properties under the AFM umbrella. This strengthens foreign investor channels, expands our global footprint, and supports the UAE’s ambition to remain a leading global investment hub.
Ultimately, the resilience of the UAE’s real estate sector will depend on businesses that combine innovation with global ambition. At AFM Properties, our mission is to support this vision by connecting international investors to a market that consistently delivers safety, growth, and long-term value. As we move toward 2026, the companies that embrace technology, transparency, and global connectivity will not only thrive—they will define the next era of real estate transformation in the UAE.
Hospitality
MARRIOTT RESORT PALM JUMEIRAH LAUNCHES ‘PAWFECT STAY ON THE PALM’
Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai is extending a warm welcome to four-legged guests with the launch of ‘Pawfect Stay on the Palm’, a thoughtfully curated pet-friendly staycation package. The new offering coincides with the unveiling of the resort’s 14 newly added Palm Seaview Rooms with Terrace, boasting an expansive outdoor entertaining and sun basking area.
The resort has also announced exclusive collaborations with two prominent homegrown UAE pet brands, Furchild Pet Nutrition and Pet World UAE. These partnerships aim to enhance the stay for pet owners by providing them with exclusive access to offers and discounts on high-quality, locally trusted food and pet accessories throughout their visit.
Located on the second floor, these new rooms blend stylish design with outdoor access, making them the ideal base for guests travelling with pets. Their introduction enables the resort to officially become the first five-star property on Palm West Beach to welcome pets, reinforcing Marriott’s guest-first philosophy.
From the moment of arrival, pets are made to feel like VIPs. A special welcome at check-in includes tailored treats, a welcome letter, and an in-room pack featuring a pet bed along with food and water bowls and branded “Pet in Room” door hanger for use during their stay and take home goodies – chew toy and a walking map. The experience continues with a pet-inclusive breakfast, and a choice of lunch, or dinner that can be enjoyed either in-room or at MYAMI. Dining outlets Myami and Bal Harbour Beach now offer dedicated pet menus and shaded seating, while the Fountain Area provides a relaxed space for downtime.
A highlight of the stay for many guests is access to the Promenade along Palm West Beach, a scenic, pet-friendly stretch perfect for early morning walks, sunset strolls, or simply soaking in the beachfront atmosphere. Widely considered one of Dubai’s best walking spots for dogs, it’s just steps from the resort and easily accessible from the pet-friendly rooms.
“Guests told us what they wanted, and so we created it,” said Gerrit Schmitt, General Manager, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah. “The addition of pet-friendly stays reflects our commitment to evolving with our guests and delivering meaningful moments of connection. We’re proud to be the first five-star resort on Palm West Beach to open our doors to pets. It’s a natural next step in creating personalised experiences that we hope guests and their furry friends will treasure forever.”
To celebrate and champion this new chapter of hospitality within the local pet community, the resort has teamed up with two of the UAE’s foremost homegrown pet brands. This means every guest bringing their pets can enjoy special offers and discounts from Furchild Pet Nutrition, the UAE’s first and leading fresh and raw pet food company, and Pet World UAE, a premium retailer offering a wide variety of pet products and accessories. These partnerships ensure all pet parents can avail the highest quality, locally trusted food and supplies throughout their stay at the resort, while the canine and feline guests are truly treated like royalty, creating a true home-away-from-home experience, whether they choose the package or simply enjoy the resort’s pet-friendly amenities.
With pet-friendly stays still rare in the UAE’s premium hospitality space, this offering meets a growing demand among local residents for accessible, high-quality getaways that welcome every member of the pack.
Pet policy includes:
- Pet-friendly stays are available only in Palm Seaview Rooms with Terrace
- Up to two pets (dogs or cats only) per room, maximum 25kg each
- AED 300 non-refundable fee per room, per night applies
- Pets may transit through guest lifts, the second-floor hallway, and the lobby, but should not linger in these areas
- Designated pet-friendly areas include Myami, Bal Harbour Beach, the Fountain Area, and the Promenade (map provided in-room)
The ‘Pawfect Stay on the Palm’ package is available exclusively via marriottresortpalmjumeirah.com and includes premium pet amenities, curated in-room dining, and other exciting pet-friendly perks.
Hospitality
PIZZAEXPRESS OPENS NEW RESTAURANT AT FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON PRODUCTION CITY, DUBAI
PizzaExpress UAE has officially opened its newest restaurant at Four Points by Sheraton Production City, Dubai, bringing its iconic pizzas, beloved Dough Balls, family-friendly setting, and signature social dining experience to one of Dubai’s most accessible and fast-growing neighbourhoods.
Perfectly located for residents of Jumeirah Golf Estates, Victory Heights, Motor City, Sports City, JVT, JVC, and nearby communities, the new PizzaExpress offers a convenient and welcoming dining destination right at their doorstep. Set away from the city’s high-traffic zones, the venue provides ample free parking and hassle-free access, making it an ideal go-to spot for relaxed dining without the stress of long drives or congestion.

The opening further strengthens PizzaExpress UAE’s growth across the Emirates, reinforcing its commitment to creating delicious dining experiences where guests can enjoy great food, great music, and great moments—together.
“We’re delighted to welcome PizzaExpress Live to Four Points by Sheraton Production City,” said Nitin Makhijani, General Manager, Four Points by Sheraton Production City, Dubai. “This new restaurant is more than just a dining spot—it’s designed to be a vibrant hub for the nearby communities.”
Guests can enjoy PizzaExpress’ elevated menu, featuring bold new dishes alongside timeless favourites—from the indulgent Queen Margherita topped with creamy burrata, to the hearty Beef Lasagne, and the always-popular Golden Caramel Dough Balls.
With its modern interiors, warm hospitality, and signature open-kitchen design, PizzaExpress Live at Four Points by Sheraton Production City is set to become the neighbourhood’s favourite hangout for hotel guests and local residents alike.
The opening also follows the launch of the PE Club, PizzaExpress’ new digital loyalty app that instantly rewards guests and unlocks exclusive benefits across all UAE locations.
Hospitality
DISCOVER THE ART OF SAKE WITH HIMITSU’S NEW TASTING SERIES
Hidden behind its signature veil of intrigue, Himitsu introduces The Sake Series, a curated exploration of Japan’s most revered spirit. Available Thursday to Sunday, this new ritual invites guests to discover sake through a collection of tasting flights and pairings that celebrate the craft and character of sake.
The experience is presented in two chapters. The first, The Himitsu Sake Series, features four tasting flights (two sakes per flight, no food) priced from AED 40, and the second, The Four Seasonal Paths, offers seasonal pairings (two sakes + small plates) priced from AED 95, moving through Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter.
The Himitsu Sake Series
The Himitsu Sake Series introduces four curated tasting flights, priced from AED 40, each featuring two distinct sakes chosen to showcase a particular facet of Japanese brewing. Guests can explore The Earth’s Whisper, pairing two expressions that highlight clarity and umami depth; Blossoms in Balance, where floral and fruity notes create harmony; Wings of Elegance, a study in refinement and precision; and Clouds & Bubbles, a playful contrast between traditional craftsmanship and modern effervescence. Together, these flights offer a guided journey through Japan’s finest sake styles, one sip at a time.
The Four Seasonal Paths
For guests looking to explore further, The Four Seasonal Paths offers a tasting journey inspired by Japan’s four seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. Each pairing combines two sakes with complementary small plates, designed to mirror the flavours and emotions of the season. Think hamachi carpaccio and spicy tuna handrolls for spring’s freshness, unagi nigiri and prawn tempura maki for the richness of summer, and so on. Prices start from AED 95, with each pairing designed to take guests through a progression of flavours that reflect the changing moods of the seasons.
Available from Thursday to Sunday, The Himitsu Sake Series invites guests to slow down, sip, and see sake through a new lens, quietly, behind closed doors.
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