Navigating India and Dubai Real Estate: Insights from Pankaj Ashri
Pankaj Ashri, founder of SPS Global Realtors, shares his expertise on investing in India and Dubai's real estate markets, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities in each.
Real EstateInvestmentPankaj AshriSps Global RealtorsDubai Freehold ZonesReal EstateAug 16, 2025
In India, Ashri notes, the market is deeply rooted in long-term ownership and emotional value. Buying property often ties into generational wealth, with families holding assets for decades. Regulations such as the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA) have brought greater transparency, but land acquisition processes, regional variations, and development timelines can still be complex. “In India, patience and due diligence are as important as market timing,” Ashri explains. “It’s about knowing the micro-markets, building local relationships, and understanding the paperwork inside out.”
Dubai, on the other hand, operates with a different rhythm. The city’s freehold zones, streamlined transactions, and investor-friendly visa policies have attracted buyers from over 200 nationalities. Here, the market moves quickly and so must the investor. “Dubai rewards speed and foresight,” Ashri says. “Opportunities can appear and vanish within days. If you have the data and the network, you can make decisions fast and secure strong returns.” With 15 years in international real estate, 11 of them in Dubai, Ashri has built strategies that adapt to each environment. In India, his focus is on deep research, risk mitigation, and selecting projects with strong fundamentals. In Dubai, he leverages his direct relationships with developers and a global broker network to identify high-growth zones, from off-plan launches to premium resale properties.
Through SPS Global Realtors, Ashri also guides investors who want to diversify between the two markets. This includes advising on currency considerations, legal frameworks, and exit strategies tailored to each country’s dynamics. “Every market has its own heartbeat,” he says. “The key is to listen and then move in rhythm.” For investors aiming to expand across borders, Ashri’s message is clear: understand the rules, respect the differences, and work with someone who knows both terrains. In his words, “Real estate is local, even when you’re playing it globally. The winners are those who bridge worlds not just markets.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between India and Dubai's real estate markets?
India's real estate market is deeply rooted in long-term ownership and emotional value, with complex regulations like RERA. Dubai's market is more fast-paced, with investor-friendly policies and freehold zones, making it attractive to a diverse range of buyers.
What is the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA) in India?
RERA is a regulatory act in India that aims to bring transparency and accountability to the real estate sector, protecting the rights of homebuyers and ensuring timely completion of projects.
What are freehold zones in Dubai?
Freehold zones in Dubai are areas where non-GCC nationals can own property outright, providing full ownership rights and the ability to buy, sell, or lease the property freely.
How does Pankaj Ashri help investors in both markets?
Pankaj Ashri, through SPS Global Realtors, provides deep research, risk mitigation, and strategic advice tailored to each market's unique dynamics, helping investors navigate the complexities and maximize returns.
What advice does Pankaj Ashri give to investors looking to diversify between India and Dubai?
Pankaj Ashri advises investors to understand the local rules, respect the differences between the markets, and work with experienced professionals who have a deep understanding of both terrains.
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