Martyn Perks | Property Investment & Off-Plan Specialist
Bridging London & Dubai Property Markets
In this exclusive interview, Martyn Perks, a property investment and off-plan specialist bridging London and Dubai markets, shares his insights on international property investment. From his journey into real estate to expert strategies for off-plan projects, Martyn answers all our questions on market trends, risk management, and how investors can maximize returns in Dubai’s dynamic property sector.
Welcome to GCC Estate Leaders. Can you briefly share your journey into real estate and what inspired you to focus on property investment advisory?
Martyn Perks: After a long career in management consultancy, design, and innovation, working globally with many major businesses, I decided it was time for a change. Property investment felt like a natural fit. It lets me use my people skills, spot economic and cultural trends, and connect with like-minded investors in a dynamic market like Dubai. What ultimately motivated the move was Dubai’s energy and sense of possibility, qualities I’ve always valued, especially through my design lens.
You are known for your expertise in off-plan investments. What makes off-plan properties such a powerful strategy for investors today?
Martyn Perks: With so many developers competing on quality, payment plans, and location, today’s market strongly favors buyers. Investing early in the right location and master-planned community can deliver strong capital appreciation during construction and after handover.
Dubai also favours a uniquely dynamic environment, driven by the UAE’s 2040 bold vision. Major investments in sustainability, infrastructure, metro expansion, cross-Emirate rail, and the new mega airport are shaping its future. Together, these initiatives create a solid foundation for growth and provide investors with a secure outlook for medium- to long-term returns.
Having experience in both London and Dubai, what are the key differences investors should understand before entering these markets?
Martyn Perks: Compared to Dubai, London’s property market, like much of Europe, is subdued with limited growth. High property taxes also discourage sales and new investment, while second homes and inherited properties carry significant taxation costs.
Dubai, by contrast, offers a tax-free environment and far stronger investor incentives. Combined with a buoyant market, it’s almost incomparable. Plus, its wide choice of high-quality communities and developers, with a focus on premium design, master-planned living, and integrated amenities, are features rare to find in London.
In your view, what type of investor is best suited for Dubai real estate compared to the UK?
Martyn Perks: Dubai suits investors who can move quickly, explore multiple options, and invest early as later phases develop. It favors those comfortable acting fast and staying close to market shifts. Things change rapidly here, so being informed and responsive is key.
What are the most common mistakes investors make when buying off-plan properties, and how can they avoid them?
Martyn Perks: One common mistake is dismissing locations that feel “too far,” such as Dubai South. While that may be true today, Dubai’s infrastructure including planned new roads, metro links, and access, often catches up quickly. If that didn’t happen, it would quickly slow down the economy’s growth.
Plus, when nearby developments emerge, they tend to normalise objections, what were once considered isolated communities, changing them into connected, established ones, with their requisite infrastructure, too. Investors who understand this early tend to benefit most.
What factors do you personally analyze before recommending an off-plan project or developer to a client?
Martyn Perks: I only recommend projects I truly believe in, with a select group of developers who lead on quality, architecture, and design, and who offer something distinctive in a crowded market. A clear target audience also matters, whether that’s families or European buyers drawn to features like sustainability. Ultimately, it comes down to understanding each client’s needs and motivations, then matching them with the right project.
What current market trends in Dubai real estate should investors be paying attention to right now?
Martyn Perks: Two come to mind. One is branded properties. The other is aligning with the 2040 sustainability goals.
Numerous developers are offering branded apartments tied to famous fashion houses, football teams (sadly not Leicester… but that’s probably for the best!), and automotive brands. These are highly attractive to investors and end-users familiar with their quality and what they stand for, ensuring a readymade audience.
On the other hand, multiple developers are competing on sustainable master plans with health retreats, wellness centers, and abundant greenery throughout each development. These clearly match the Emirates’ sustainability goals and are equally attractive to international investors who share similar values.
How do you help international investors manage risk while maximizing returns in a competitive market?
Martyn Perks: First, it’s important to understand what’s driving their investment: short-term gains or long-term growth. Risk tolerance varies, and that shapes strategy. Some investors pursue high capital appreciation by backing early-stage developments in emerging areas, such as beachfront projects on the Dubai Islands. These opportunities reward those who enter early, benefiting as each development matures.
Based on your experience, what advice would you give to someone looking to build a long-term property portfolio across international markets?
Martyn Perks: It’s vital to understand the political, economic, and technological shifts shaping global markets. For example, AI-driven growth across the Middle East is boosting economies and infrastructure, making it an attractive region for long-term investment.
At the same time, political instability in parts of Europe, including the UK, is pushing investors toward more stable markets like the UAE. While no one can predict the future, staying informed on global trends and geopolitics helps investors anticipate risks and protect returns.
Finally, how can our readers connect with you to receive trusted property investment guidance?
Martyn Perks: I’m always open to conversations. I regularly interview developers and property experts on Instagram, and you’re welcome to message me on WhatsApp too. I enjoy me
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After a long career in management consultancy, design, and innovation, working globally with many major businesses, I decided it was time for a change. Property investment felt like a natural fit. It lets me use my people skills, spot economic and cultural trends, and connect with like-minded investors in a dynamic market like Dubai. What ultimately motivated the move was Dubai’s energy and sense of possibility, qualities I’ve always valued, especially through my design lens.
