Filipino Real Estate Expert Guides OFWs to Dubai's Thriving Property Market
May Antonette Leuterio, chief operating officer of Filipino Homes and managing director of Rent.ph, gazes upon Dubai's dynamic skyline and perceives more than just architectural marvels. She identifies a powerful momentum and a wealth of opportunities for Filipino investors seeking global real estate ventures.
From Philippine Roots to Dubai Expansion
Long before establishing herself as a licensed real estate broker in the United Arab Emirates, May was already fostering connections between overseas Filipinos and property ownership in the Philippines. Since 2013, she and her father, Anthony Gerard Leuterio, founder of Filipino Homes, have regularly visited Dubai, conducting roadshows and assisting Filipinos in investing back home.
This pattern shifted dramatically in 2022 during a casual lunch that ignited a transformative idea. "We were dining at Din Tai Fung in Dubai Mall, and I observed the city's relentless evolution—new skyscrapers, enhanced infrastructure, and a growing influx of tourists and expatriates annually," May recounted. "I proposed to my father, 'Why not expand our services here and facilitate investments in Dubai itself?'"
This pivotal question launched an intensive exploration into one of the globe's most rigorously regulated yet rapidly expanding property markets. After years of meticulous research and adherence to local regulations, the Leuterios inaugurated their first Dubai office in January 2025. Both are now accredited brokers, actively introducing Dubai real estate to Filipino investors.
Navigating Dubai's Competitive and Diverse Market
May highlights policy stability as a major attraction for investors. "Dubai imposes no property taxes, which fundamentally alters the financial calculations for investors," she emphasized. However, penetrating Dubai's real estate sector presented significant challenges. The market is saturated, multicultural, and fiercely competitive, with brokers and developers representing numerous nationalities.
"The greatest adaptation involved learning to collaborate with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and sales methodologies," May explained. "Most developer representatives are not Filipino, and each has unique business practices. Yet, this diversity is Dubai's strength—it compels rapid learning and flexibility."
Understanding Dubai's Transparent Real Estate System
For Filipinos familiar with the Philippine real estate environment, Dubai's brokerage framework can be surprising. "Every transaction is thoroughly documented and safeguarded," May noted. "The government monitors all processes through an escrow system, ensuring payments to developers are released only as construction advances."
Foreign purchasers can independently verify projects, developers, and brokers via government platforms under the Dubai Land Department. This transparency significantly boosts confidence among overseas investors. "All brokers and developers must be licensed. Severe penalties for misconduct maintain investor trust," she added.
Current demand in Dubai primarily centers on apartments, akin to condominiums in the Philippines, while villas refer to house-and-lot properties. "With approximately 85 percent of residents being expatriates, renting is prevalent," May stated. "Thus, affordable and community-oriented apartments are highly sought after." A fully furnished 40-square-meter studio in a prime location may cost around P9 million to P10 million, offering move-in readiness that appeals given Dubai's infrastructure and global allure.
Rising Filipino Interest and Overcoming Barriers
Filipino investor interest is escalating, driven by Dubai's safety, regulatory framework, and international standing. "Payments are processed through government channels, not directly to developers. Every step is staged, licensed, and regulated, providing peace of mind for remote investors," May assured.
Nevertheless, fear remains a primary obstacle. "Some hesitate due to lack of firsthand Dubai experience or overreliance on social media," she observed. "My recommendation is straightforward: conduct research using credible, government-endorsed sources."
Infusing Filipino Values into Global Business
Operating in a fast-paced international arena, May attributes her business approach to her Filipino heritage. "We inherently prioritize service," she said. "We emphasize relationships over mere transactions. Clients must feel comprehended and valued—that's quintessentially Filipino."
Dubai's prospects remain robust, with tourism, trade, finance, and technology expected to propel growth, reducing oil dependency. Real estate demand is anticipated across luxury, waterfront, affordable housing, sustainable developments, and smart-city initiatives. "Dubai aspires to lead in retail, education, healthcare, and real estate," May concluded. "For Filipinos dedicating time to understand this market, opportunities are genuine and expanding."
From her origins in Cebu to one of the world's most vibrant cities, May's journey symbolizes a broader trend: Filipino investors are increasingly looking beyond domestic markets toward global hubs characterized by ambition, structure, and scale.
