Investors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are poised to significantly increase their investments in the UK commercial property market, potentially exceeding USD 4 billion annually. This trend comes as a result of several favourable economic indicators, including lower interest rates and declining property prices, making UK assets more appealing to foreign investors.
A recent analysis by the Bank of London and The Middle East (BLME) highlights the growing interest from GCC investors, particularly those from the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. In 2023, these investors have already committed approximately USD 2.35 billion to UK real estate, indicating a strong and positive trajectory for future investments. The changing economic conditions in the UK, marked by a relatively stable political environment following the Brexit transition, are encouraging foreign investments.
Andy Thomson, who oversees real estate finance and private banking at BLME, noted that the UK’s new government and general economic stability are attractive to international investors. He stated that interest rates are forecast to decrease in 2024 and 2025, making property more accessible and appealing. The recent decision by the Bank of England to cut interest rates for the first time since 2020 solidifies this trend, now setting the base rate at 5 percent.
Falling interest rates have emerged as a key factor in boosting investor confidence. According to BLME’s research, 87 percent of survey participants cited this as a critical reason for increased interest from GCC investors in the upcoming year. Alongside the economic factors, there’s a notable emphasis on sustainability. Investors are increasingly looking for opportunities to invest in “green” properties, which not only meet new environmental standards but also tend to sell for premiums. The potential for higher returns on investments in sustainable buildings-averaging 8-18 percent-creates an additional incentive for GCC investors to engage with the UK property market.
Furthermore, the housing market’s dynamics reveal a persistent undersupply of residential properties, making it an attractive sector for investment. There is a notable increase in the demand for purpose-built student accommodations as more students from the Gulf region choose the UK as their study destination. Currently, over 8,000 UAE residents are enrolled in UK universities, nearly double the number from five years ago. This growing population of international students presents a significant opportunity for investors looking to develop or enhance living spaces.
Rashid Khan-Gandapur, Director of Real Estate Finance at BLME, emphasises the strategic shift among GCC investors as they diversify their portfolios. He highlighted that investors see the UK as rich in opportunities, especially for improving existing properties to boost environmental, social, and governance credentials. “Investment in commercial properties is expected to grow to over USD 4 billion annually. This will be complemented by a strong interest in large-scale residential projects,” he added.
In conclusion, as the UK property market continues to recover and evolve, investment from GCC countries is anticipated to play a significant role. With a combination of falling interest rates, attractive property values, and increasing demand for sustainable and student housing, the prospects for the UK real estate sector look promising. Investors are not only attracted by the potential financial returns but also by the possibility of contributing to a more sustainable urban landscape in the UK. As the market develops, the influx of capital from the GCC could redefine the commercial and residential property sectors, positioning the UK as a top destination for international investment.