The Abu Dhabi-based property manager—formerly Abu Dhabi Commercial Properties and operating under Ethmar International Holding—has signalled an ambitious shift from its traditional capital-focused operations to a regional-scale enterprise.
Strategic Expansion Phase
Relaam’s push into Dubai marks a critical inflection point for the property management sector in the UAE. The company’s CEO, Manal Fraiwat, emphasised that the expansion reflects both strong fundamentals in Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector and rising institutional demand for managed properties.
“Our growing portfolio reflects Relaam’s dedication to creating long-term value for stakeholders. As Abu Dhabi’s property market continues its steady rise, we remain focused on managing high-quality assets, enhancing operational efficiency, and expanding strategically to meet the evolving needs of residents and investors,” Fraiwat said.
The company currently manages over 50,000 residential and commercial units across 2,000 properties, generating annual rental revenues between Dh2 billion and Dh3 billion. Its managed portfolio, valued at around Dh30 billion, has achieved an occupancy rate of 94%, up from 87% in mid-2024—a signal of sustained market confidence.
Dubai and Northern Emirates Priority
Relaam’s entry into Dubai is expected to align with new partnerships and asset management contracts, particularly targeting the mid- to high-end residential segment and select commercial developments. As Dubai’s commercial property market continues showing strong momentum, professional management has become increasingly valuable for institutional players seeking operational transparency and digital efficiency.
The Northern Emirates expansion reflects complementary demand in underserved markets where residents and developers seek management standards comparable to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Professionalisation of UAE Property Sector
Industry analysts attribute Relaam’s strategy to a broader professionalisation trend across the UAE’s real estate landscape. As developers launch larger projects and institutional investors acquire expanding portfolios, the focus has shifted from asset ownership to efficient long-term stewardship.
Relaam is responding through integration of digital systems for maintenance, tenant communication, and performance tracking—bringing regional operations closer to international management standards. This aligns with a larger market trend where data-driven advisory is replacing traditional salesmanship in Dubai’s property sector.
Regional and Global Ambitions
Beyond the UAE, Relaam has outlined plans to enter key GCC markets including Riyadh and Doha once its domestic expansion stabilises. The company views this regional footprint as foundational for selective international growth opportunities.
The company’s rebranding earlier this year symbolised this strategic pivot from local operator to regional asset manager. With rising occupancy rates and a performance-driven model, Relaam is positioning itself as one of the UAE’s most active property management players—a critical differentiator in an increasingly competitive institutional real estate environment.
