War, Rising Costs Driving NRIs Back to India: Real Estate Influencer Rafique Merchant

Published: March 09, 2026 | Category: real estate news
War, Rising Costs Driving NRIs Back to India: Real Estate Influencer Rafique Merchant

Mumbai-based real estate influencer and broker Rafique Merchant has highlighted a major shift in the property market, reporting a surge of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and real estate professionals seeking to return to India from the Middle East.

While speaking in a recent video posted on his Instagram account, Merchant noted that he has received numerous inquiries from clients and brokers in the Gulf region who are eager to exit their international portfolios and find residential or commercial spaces back home, including houses, shops, and offices. This trend appears to be driven by a combination of regional instability, economic pressures, and a desire for the long-term security offered by the Indian market.

The ongoing conflicts and tensions in the Middle East have created a sense of uncertainty among NRIs and real estate professionals. Many are reevaluating their international investments and considering the stability and growth potential of the Indian real estate market. According to Merchant, the rising costs of living and doing business in the Gulf region are also significant factors driving this trend.

India's real estate market has shown resilience and growth over the past few years, making it an attractive option for NRIs looking to secure their future. The government's initiatives to boost the real estate sector, such as the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) and the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA), have further enhanced the confidence of investors and homebuyers.

Merchant, known for his insights and expertise in the real estate market, has also announced a 'Free Sales Training Program' to help professionals and aspiring real estate agents enhance their skills and navigate the changing landscape. This program aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the dynamic Indian real estate market.

The return of NRIs and real estate professionals from the Middle East is expected to have a positive impact on the Indian property market, driving demand for both residential and commercial properties. As more NRIs look to invest in or relocate to India, the real estate sector is poised for further growth and development, offering new opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

For those considering a move back to India, it is essential to stay informed about the latest market trends and regulatory changes. Rafique Merchant's insights and the 'Free Sales Training Program' can be valuable resources for anyone looking to make a well-informed decision in the Indian real estate market.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is driving NRIs to return to India?
NRIs are returning to India due to regional instability, economic pressures, and a desire for long-term security offered by the Indian market.
2. What is the 'Free Sales Training Program' mentioned by Rafique Merchant?
The 'Free Sales Training Program' is an initiative by Rafique Merchant to help real estate professionals and aspiring agents enhance their skills and navigate the Indian real estate market.
3. How is the Indian real estate market performing?
The Indian real estate market has shown resilience and growth, with government initiatives like PMAY and RERA boosting investor confidence.
4. What are the key factors influencing the real estate market in the Gulf region?
Key factors include rising costs of living, economic pressures, and regional conflicts and tensions, which are driving NRIs to consider returning to India.
5. What impact will the return of NRIs have on the Indian real estate market?
The return of NRIs is expected to increase demand for both residential and commercial properties, driving further growth and development in the Indian real estate sector.