Real Estate


The real estate market is much more than just bricks and mortar; it represents the pulse of global urban progression. Reflecting society's evolving desires—from towering skyscrapers and commercial complexes to tranquil suburban homes—the sector presents a landscape of challenges and opportunities. As populations shift and tastes evolve, the global business environment continually adapts to these changes.

Despite challenges such as economic downturns, geopolitical tensions, environmental concerns, and health crises, the real estate sector has shown remarkable resilience. Within these challenges lie substantial opportunities. Technological advancements open new avenues for smart, sustainable developments, while urbanization trends in emerging economies present vast growth potential. The global population's steady increase continues to drive demand for urban and suburban spaces, reshaping the sector's expansive trajectory. According to the Global Real Estate Institute, the worldwide market, valued at USD 3.7 trillion in 2022, is projected to grow to USD 4.3 trillion by 2025, indicating a promising trend.

This growth can be attributed to:

  • Increasing global population driving demand for diverse housing options, from luxury homes to communal living.
  • The appeal of urban environments attracting individuals to city centers for better career opportunities and lifestyle benefits.
  • Technological innovations influencing living spaces and infrastructure, with a growing appetite for green housing and environmentally friendly designs.

The Middle East region, in particular, holds notable potential for the real estate sector. Booming economies and consistent demand across residential, commercial, industrial, and hospitality segments suggest an optimistic outlook for regional growth. Real estate is not just about infrastructure; it also encompasses employment opportunities, urban development, and economic stability. Its capacity for consistent returns positions it as a favorable investment avenue.

In today's dynamic property market, the expertise of real estate advisory and valuation consultants is invaluable. These professionals bring in-depth market knowledge, analytical prowess, and an unbiased perspective to aid developers, investors, and end-users in making well-informed decisions. As the sector faces regulatory shifts, market fluctuations, and technological disruptions, consultants offer data-driven insights to navigate these complexities. They interpret the nuanced influence of technology and sustainability on property value. Real estate development advisory consultants delve into feasibility, strategic fit, market review, forecasted performance, and global economics to ensure that capital-intensive projects are viable and future-proof. As property development becomes more multifaceted with regulatory challenges and evolving consumer demands, their insights become crucial for developers. Moving forward, as urban landscapes transform, these consultants will guide the sector towards prosperous opportunities amidst challenges.

At IBIACO, our team of real estate advisory consultants and RICS valuation experts with global and regional expertise understand the complexities of this sector. We support real estate firms in crucial areas, including:

  • Valuation of commercial, residential, luxury, and industrial properties.
  • Feasibility studies for real estate projects and firms.
  • Development advisory for real estate projects, cities, and other key economic initiatives.
  • Highest and best use analysis for vacant land.
  • Real estate portfolio optimizations.
  • Due diligence of real estate companies.
  • Business plans for real estate firms.
  • Bespoke and periodic real estate market research, including monthly and quarterly analysis.
  • In-depth market intelligence of the real estate sector in UAE and Qatar through the IBIACO Price Index.
  • Transaction advisory to corporate clients for commercial and residential real estate deals.
  • Real estate development forensic assessment.

The next decade poses intriguing challenges for the real estate sector. Climate change may impact property development and valuations, prompting reassessment of location strategies and adaptive architectural measures. Economic uncertainty, intensified by geopolitical tensions and potential financial disruptions, could affect property demand and valuation. Rapid technological advancements have the potential to redefine property value propositions as remote work and online commerce alter conventional workspace and retail expectations. Additionally, changing generational perspectives towards property ownership necessitate a fresh approach, aligning with values of flexibility, sustainability, and functionality over size or luxury.

Construction Consulting

At IBIACO, our team of specialized experts provides invaluable insights into the construction and building materials industry. Our professional expertise and technical know-how enable us to tackle even the most complex valuation and strategy assignments, setting IBIACO apart from the rest.

The construction and building materials sector is one of the largest industries in the region, playing a crucial role in the UAE's economy, especially in Dubai. Employing over 500,000 people in the UAE, with Dubai contributing around 30%, this industry is vast, complex, and diverse, encompassing a wide range of business interests and activities related to land usage and development. Our clients include house-builders, commercial property developers, designers, materials and components suppliers, and contractors.

The global trend of 'Building Green' is quickly becoming the norm in the GCC. According to Navigant Research, the worldwide market for green construction materials is projected to grow from $116 billion in 2013 to over $254 billion by 2020. The benefits of green building, including energy savings and environmentally-friendly techniques, have gained acceptance, driving demand for sustainable building certifications and materials that reduce environmental impact.

Growth areas in the industry include the production of concrete from recycled materials like ash from power furnaces, sustainable forestry wood, water-efficient plumbing fixtures, and energy-efficient lighting. These sectors are expected to see substantial growth, as highlighted by Freedonia Group's green building materials report.

The construction sector in the GCC is poised for a significant rebound, with $286 billion (Dh1 trillion) in projects set to be awarded between 2012 and 2016, according to recent research. At IBIACO, we are at the forefront of this dynamic industry, providing strategic advice and expertise to help our clients navigate and capitalize on these opportunities.

Technology Consulting

The technology sector has emerged as a cornerstone of the global economy, influencing diverse industries from healthcare and finance to education and entertainment. At its core are innovative technology consulting firms that guide businesses through the intricate digital landscape.

The global technology industry is projected to reach USD 4.6 trillion in 2023, marking a 5.5% increase from 2022. Emerging fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing are gaining prominence, with AI alone expected to contribute up to USD 15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. Concurrently, the cloud computing market is on track to hit USD 832.1 billion by 2025.

In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Information Technology (IT) spending is forecasted to reach USD 178.1 billion in 2023, reflecting a 3.1% growth from 2022. This underscores a significant shift toward technology-driven solutions, highlighting the critical need for technology risk consultants and business technology consulting expertise. However, the rapid growth and dynamic nature of the technology industry also present formidable challenges. Competitive markets, evolving consumer demands, and the imperative for innovative business models pose complex issues for technology companies. This is where technology consulting firms play a pivotal role.

Strategic technology consulting firms serve as invaluable partners in navigating these challenges. Beyond providing advisory services, they assist businesses in navigating the complex tech landscape, facilitating strategic planning, optimizing operational efficiency, managing risks, and fostering innovation.

Technology consulting services enable businesses to harness the latest technological advancements, transforming challenges into opportunities. These services encompass strategic guidance on digital transformation, support in implementing AI and machine learning initiatives, cybersecurity measures, and leveraging big data analytics. Technical due diligence is conducted to assess the feasibility and risks of technology projects, while experienced technology risk consultants identify and mitigate potential risks.

At IBIACO, our team of tech business consultants possesses deep expertise in understanding the intricate dynamics of the technology sector within the global ecosystem.

We support technology firms across critical domains, including:

  • Venture Establishment and Development: Crafting strategic frameworks for startups and growing ventures, including business plans, feasibility assessments, market research, industry analysis, business valuations, and guidance on investment raising.
  • Strategic Planning and Transformation: Assisting in defining business objectives and devising strategies that align with the evolving digital landscape.
  • Operational Efficiency: Guiding on operational streamlining, process automation, and resource optimization.
  • Risk Management: Supporting in identifying potential risks, contingency planning, and enhancing cybersecurity measures.
  • Innovation Management: Facilitating an innovative culture, identifying growth opportunities, and harnessing emerging technologies.

In the dynamic realm of technology, proactive adaptation to change and strategic foresight are critical for sustained growth and competitiveness. ValuStrat’s technology consulting services empower businesses to navigate complexity, innovate boldly, and achieve enduring success in a rapidly evolving digital age.

Oil & Gas Consulting

The oil and gas sector is undergoing a transformation driven by technological advancements, sustainability imperatives, and evolving market dynamics. This shift encompasses a move from conventional practices towards integrating innovative technologies. The industry stands poised to shape both current and future global energy and economic landscapes, balancing economic growth with sustainability imperatives.

Despite the rise of renewables, the oil and gas sector remains pivotal, contributing approximately 3.8% to global GDP. The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects a peak in fossil fuel demand by 2030, with global oil demand reaching 93 million barrels per day and declining to 55 million by 2050, assuming fulfillment of energy and climate commitments. In the MENA region, renowned for its extensive oil reserves, growth is anticipated through increased investments in new technologies and sustainable practices. The Middle East's strategic position and abundant resources exert significant influence on both regional and global energy strategies.

Beyond energy production, the industry catalyzes innovation, shapes global geopolitics, and underpins economic stability. It plays a critical role in employment and research and development (R&D), exerting influence on global and regional scales. Oil and gas consultants, particularly those specializing in strategic planning and business advisory, are indispensable in guiding market adaptations, integrating technologies, and fostering sustainable business practices in this evolving landscape. At ValuStrat, our commitment is to empower oil and gas entities and institutions to navigate these evolving paradigms and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Our comprehensive oil and gas consulting services include:

  • Market Entry and Expansion Strategies: Guiding businesses in entering new markets or expanding within existing ones, considering geopolitical, environmental, and economic factors.
  • Strategic Planning: Assisting in long-term planning and adapting to market fluctuations.
  • Market Research: Conducting thorough research to discern market trends, forecast demand, and analyze competitor strategies.
  • Company and Asset Valuations: Determining fair market values for businesses in mergers, acquisitions, or investment scenarios, valuing oil and gas assets based on market trends and future revenue potential.
  • M&A Strategy and Support: Providing expertise in mergers and acquisitions, from strategy formulation to execution, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives.
  • Financial Analysis: Conducting in-depth financial assessments to ensure transparency, identify risks, and uncover opportunities.
  • Policy Impact Assessment: Analyzing the effects of policy changes and environmental regulations on operations and long-term strategies.
  • Operational Excellence: Enhancing efficiency across extraction, refining, and distribution processes to reduce costs and boost productivity.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to regional and international regulatory frameworks, critical for sustainable operations and risk management.

Like other industries, the oil and gas market is embracing digitalization, navigating stringent environmental regulations, and adapting to shifting global energy demands. Success for industry leaders hinges on a deep understanding of these evolving dynamics, enabling effective navigation of industry complexities and strategic exploitation of new opportunities. Moving forward requires a steadfast commitment to sustainability, leveraging technological innovations, and implementing flexible, forward-thinking strategies. This approach positions oil and gas companies to achieve sustainable economic growth and fulfill global environmental obligations within an ever-changing energy landscape.

Hospitality Consulting

The hospitality industry blends cultural, leisure, and business interactions, playing a pivotal role in shaping the global economy, especially in tourism. This sector is undergoing significant transformation, particularly in the EMEA region.

According to Statista, the global hospitality market is projected to reach USD 5.8 trillion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5%. In the Middle East, robust growth is anticipated, driven by increased tourism and government initiatives promoting cities as regional economic and tourist hubs. The next decade will witness transformative changes in hospitality, focusing on sustainability, digital integration, and personalized guest experiences. The EMEA region is gearing up for a tourism surge linked to upcoming global events, with substantial investments in infrastructure and service enhancements.

Beyond its economic impact, the hospitality industry serves as a cultural and diplomatic bridge, particularly in the Middle East, where it is intertwined with local heritage and a commitment to service excellence. At IBIACO, we comprehend the intricate nuances of the hospitality sector and offer tailored services to address its multifaceted challenges. Our expertise lies not only in enhancing business performance but also in nurturing the cultural and economic ecosystems that define hospitality. Our services include:

  • Strategic Planning and Consulting: Developing long-term strategies aligned with market trends and organizational goals.
  • M&A Transaction Advisory and Business Valuations:* Expert guidance on mergers, acquisitions, and valuations of hospitality businesses.
  • Industrial and Real Estate Valuations: Comprehensive valuation services for industrial assets and real estate properties within the hospitality sector.
  • Market Research: In-depth studies to identify opportunities and risks in the hospitality market.
  • Due Diligence for Technical Assets: Thorough evaluation of technical assets crucial for hospitality ventures.
  • Hospitality Development Project Advisory: Insights and strategies for new hospitality projects.
  • Real Estate Advisory: Expert guidance on real estate investments and developments specific to hospitality.
  • Operational Excellence and Digital Transformation Strategies: Enhancing operational efficiency and integrating digital solutions.
  • Sustainability Consulting and Customer Experience Strategy: Focus on eco-friendly practices and developing unique customer engagement strategies.

In the rapidly evolving hospitality industry, staying abreast of emerging trends and future challenges is paramount. Innovations such as AI-driven customer service, virtual reality in travel planning, and heightened focus on health and wellness are reshaping the sector. Adapting to shifts in consumer behavior and environmental sustainability requires strategic foresight. Consulting firms play a crucial role by providing insights and strategies that empower clients to lead innovation and tackle tomorrow's challenges proactively.

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