International Property Show
Dubai World Trade Centre
April 14-16, 2025
The International Property Show (IPS) is a prominent event that brings together real estate buyers, sellers, developers, financial institutions, and industry professionals. This 20+ year event plays a vital role in the property market. I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Dawood Al Shezawi, President of IPS, on my radio show.
Since IPS has grown significantly, I asked about trends in the Dubai property market. Dawood responded that “Dubai is the fastest growing city in the world. It is a hot destination for living, working and schooling. We have no property or corporate tax and offer a 5% VAT, which draws exhibitors from the US, Europe, and Asia. Dubai sees 11,000+ new residents monthly. Since IPS began in 2001, the number of people living in Dubai increased from 800,000 to 4.8 million. Annually, 25,000 to 30,000 new dwellings will become home to people of more than 235 nationalities. The IPS has grown with Dubai and has become the major real estate event in the East, with stake holders from around the world. We welcome exhibitors!”
I asked Dawood to comment on Dubai becoming one of the top vacation spots as well: “Buyers are looking for second homes, vacation properties, or investment opportunities. It’s a prime destination where properties are shown to high-net-worth individuals.”
As the event draws a diverse range of investors, developers, and professionals, I asked how the IPS fosters collaboration and innovation in the real estate industry. Dawood explained, “We collaborate with more than 400 partners worldwide. And we are creating greater sustainability. All technologies are transforming very quickly. But keep in mind that we also maintain our culture despite rapid growth. Through responsible development, we make Dubai, as UN World Bank states, one of the safest and easiest places to do business globally. Our innovation and stability establish a highly competitive and attractive destination.”
I read that Dubai is leading in various sectors, including business and technology, compared to places like the US. I wanted to get his take on that: “The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Dubai have a strong, visionary government that drives business growth and innovation. Leadership is focused on attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and prioritizes investments in technology, AI, and in people. Dubai sets a global example through partnerships and collaboration with companies and countries. The government shares knowledge, best practices, and developments. New millionaires and billionaires are created regularly in Dubai, making it a prime destination for wealth creation.”
I love the idea of investing in people! As a business coach, I am thrilled when entrepreneurs grow their businesses. And with increasing interest in sustainable living, I asked how Dubai’s property developers integrate eco-friendly and sustainable practices into their projects. Dawood said, “Dubai was one of the first countries to launch a fully sustainable model city. Visitors can explore the city completely powered by solar energy, electric cars, with every necessity supported in a fully sustainable, eco-friendly system. This is crucial for creating a smart and sustainable future for the next generation.”
In light of looking ahead, I asked what he considers the biggest challenge for the Dubai real estate market: “Well, there are many challenges, but the availability of land is the biggest. Developers make so much money that everybody’s buying land. And developers make huge profits by selling very quickly, so there are multiple factors at play.”
With so many developers, I asked about the challenge of a water supply. Dawood assured me, “This is not at all a problem. The Dubai government always plans ahead. The infrastructure is already in place. We rely on desalinated water for all projects, and even hybrid projects have backup systems for both water and electricity.”
That was reassuring. On the US West Coast, water is a big problem. Because he has worked in government and the utility sector, Dawood understands multiple perspectives: “Developers are assured that there will be no problems. They know that developments won’t take more than 12 to 50 months, depending on size and scope. You even get your electricity and water before you complete your project.”
That sounds amazing! The things Dawood has accomplished are also amazing, so I asked how he feels about his goals and successes. He simply stated, “I still have more to do. I think I’ve done only 10% of my goals.” A succinct and ambitious reply!
I recently learned about Dawood’s nearly 10-year role as the President of the AIM Academy. I admire support for entrepreneurs, so I asked how it works: “I am the Chairman of the Global Foundation, which supports governments by helping international investors connect and attract these projects. At AIM Academy, our goal is to host an international global competition to bring promising startups and entrepreneurs to the UAE, specifically to Dubai and Abu Dhabi for the final round. We finance and support these entrepreneurs through training, competitions, and knowledge transfer. The 3 winners each receive $60,000. The annual competition brings in more than 250 entrepreneurs.”
I highly recommend attending the International Property Show. While you’re there, be sure to stop by the Infinite Solutions booth #24 and say hello to Antonio Barbosa, a global ambassador for the IPS.
Dawood Al Shezawi clearly loves Dubai and its people. If you are looking for excitement, luxury, and wealth, come to “The Vegas of the Middle East.” You will love it, too. Come play, invest and thrive!
International Property Show
Dubai World Trade Centre
April 14-16, 2025
To listen to the full and unedited interview, go to www.HSMRadio.app.
For more information about International Property Show, see www.IPSCongress.com. Follow IPS on social media.
