Dubai-based real estate classifieds giant Property Finder has secured a $525 million minority investment from global private equity giants Permira and Blackstone, signaling strong investor confidence in the region’s digital real estate boom.
This transaction, which includes a partial exit by long-standing investor General Atlantic who will remain a significant stakeholder marks Permira’s first foray into the Middle East following the recent opening of its Dubai office.
Valuation and Strategic Ambitions
The injection values Property Finder at approximately $2 billion, with Permira contributing $350 million as lead investor. The fund aims to integrate global expertise from all three firms Permira, Blackstone, and General Atlantic as Property Finder accelerates its push across the Middle East and North Africa.
Momentum Builds on Strong Market Performance
Founded nearly two decades ago, Property Finder has established itself as a leading player in real estate classifieds competing with Bayut and Dubizzle while expanding regionally into Saudi Arabia and Turkey following a $90 million financing round from Francisco Partners.
Dubai’s property market has been red hot: average sale prices climbed nearly 70% by end-2024, and the emirate continues to post record-breaking transaction volumes.
Balancing Optimism with Caution
While the deal underscores optimism in Dubai’s digital real estate infrastructure, FAITHFUL watchers caution of a potential market cooldown Fitch Ratings forecasts double-digit declines in housing prices in late 2025 and 2026, citing oversupply risks.
Snapshot Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment Amount | $525 million minority stake |
| Valuation | Approximately $2 billion |
| Lead Investor | Permira ($350 million) |
| Co-investors | Blackstone and continued involvement from General Atlantic |
| Strategic Goal | Expand in MENA, leverage global expertise |
| Market Context | Dubai’s property boom, post-pandemic surge, with looming risk of correction |
Conclusion
This high-value infusion highlights Property Finder’s pivotal role in MENA’s proptech revolution and Dubai’s property market momentum. Backed by heavyweight private equity, the firm is poised to scale regionally reinforcing investor belief in its resilience and growth potential amid a shifting economic backdrop.
