Qatar has the highest per capita investment in Dubai real estate in 2013 worth Dh6.71mn, a new study has shown.

Qatar is followed by Oman (Dh5.77mn), the UAE (Dh4.56mn), Saudi Arabia (Dh3.71mn), Germany (Dh2.37mn), India (Dh2.22mn) and Britain (Dh2.11mn).

These figures were released in connection with the International Property Show (IPS) which will be held in Dubai from April 8 – 10 and supported by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

According to the DLD report, international real estate transactions during 2013 exceeded Dh114bn.

“The fact that the highest four per capita investment in Dubai’s realty come from GCC countries shows that the Gulf investors remain a key driver in the Emirate’s property sector, encouraged by new investor-friendly legislations, proximity and a rising confidence in a lucrative return on their investments,” said the organisers of the conference.

Dubai Land Department director general Sultan Butti bin Mejren said: “The figures once again reinforce Dubai’s status as a top-notch real estate investment hub in the Gulf and beyond. I foresee even stronger regional demand in 2014 and this is where specialised events like IPS will help in maximising per capita investment from neighbouring regions and the world.”

Other foreign countries which figured in high per capita real-estate transactions include France (Dh2.054mn), Russia (Dh2.051mn), Canada (Dh1.98mn) and the US (Dh1.83mn).

Dawood al-Shezawi, CEO of Strategic Marketing & Exhibitions, conference organisers, said:  “Overseas investments were key contributors to the turnaround of the UAE economy, driven by a maturing market, transparent legislations and regulations and a growing appetite for property investment. Our major focus in this year’s show is to expand the number of exhibitors and investors.”

“We will also be highlighting the role of regulation in driving transparency, market confidence and facilitating sustainable investment in emerging markets in conjunction with the IPS’ Official Knowledge Partner; RICS International,” al-Shezawi
said.

“We invite investors, developers, financiers, architects and consultants in property investment, development and construction to visit IPS and keep abreast of the latest market trends as well as meet with decision makers from the real-estate industry,” al-Shezawi added.