Navigating Real Estate in India and Dubai: Insights from Pankaj Ashri
Pankaj Ashri, founder of SPS Global Realtors, shares his expertise on investing in the real estate markets of India and Dubai, highlighting the unique opportunities and challenges in each.
Real EstateInvestmentPankaj AshriIndiaDubaiReal EstateAug 16, 2025
When Pankaj Ashri first ventured into Dubai’s property market after years of experience in India’s real estate industry, he quickly realized that while the two markets share the same investment language, they operate under very different rulebooks. Today, Ashri’s unique position allows him to navigate both geographies seamlessly, providing a rare perspective on how investors can succeed in each market.
In India, the real estate market is deeply rooted in long-term ownership and emotional value. Property purchases often serve as a means of generational wealth, with families holding assets for decades. The implementation of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA) has brought greater transparency to the market, but the processes of land acquisition, regional variations, and development timelines remain 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.”
On the other hand, Dubai’s real estate market operates with a different rhythm. The city’s freehold zones, streamlined transactions, and investor-friendly visa policies have attracted buyers from over 200 nationalities. The market moves quickly, and investors must be able to make decisions fast to secure strong returns. “Dubai rewards speed and foresight,” Ashri says. “Opportunities can appear and vanish within days. If you have the data and the network, you can act swiftly and secure lucrative deals.”
With 15 years of experience in international real estate, including 11 years in Dubai, Ashri has developed 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 assists investors who wish to diversify their portfolios 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.”
SPS Global Realtors, founded by Pankaj Ashri, is a leading real estate consultancy that helps investors navigate the complexities of the Indian and Dubai markets. With a focus on deep market research, strategic partnerships, and personalized advice, SPS Global Realtors aims to help investors achieve their real estate goals in both regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is RERA and how does it impact the Indian real estate market?
RERA, or the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, is a regulatory framework in India that aims to bring transparency and accountability to the real estate market. It ensures timely completion of projects, protects homebuyers, and mandates the registration of real estate projects. This has significantly improved the trust and reliability of the Indian real estate market.
What are the advantages of investing in Dubai's freehold zones?
Dubai's freehold zones allow foreign investors to own property outright, offering them full ownership rights. These zones are known for their streamlined transactions, investor-friendly visa policies, and a diverse range of properties. Investing in freehold zones can provide high returns and a stable investment environment.
How does SPS Global Realtors assist investors in both India and Dubai?
SPS Global Realtors, founded by Pankaj Ashri, provides comprehensive real estate services to investors in both India and Dubai. They offer deep market research, risk mitigation strategies, and personalized advice on currency considerations, legal frameworks, and exit strategies. Their expertise helps investors navigate the unique challenges and opportunities in each market.
What are the key differences between the real estate markets in India and Dubai?
The Indian real estate market is characterized by long-term ownership, emotional value, and a focus on generational wealth. It has complex land acquisition processes and regional variations. Dubai's market, on the other hand, is fast-moving, with investor-friendly policies and a diverse range of properties. Dubai rewards speed and foresight, while India emphasizes patience and due diligence.
What advice does Pankaj Ashri have for investors looking to diversify their portfolios?
Pankaj Ashri advises investors to understand the rules and dynamics of each market, respect the differences, and work with experienced professionals who know both terrains. He emphasizes the importance of deep market research, strategic partnerships, and personalized advice to achieve successful real estate investments in both India and Dubai.
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