UAE developer Arada enters UK market with 75% stake in

Strategic Expansion into London

Sharjah-based property developer Arada announced on Monday the purchase of a 75% share in Regal, a leading London residential-led mixed-use developer. This move marks Arada’s debut in the UK market and its second overseas expansion. After establishing itself in the UAE in 2017 and moving into Australia in 2024, the acquisition of Regal provides Arada with a direct foothold in London and a platform to grow rapidly.

Investment and Growth Plans

Through this transaction, Arada is committing an initial Dh2.5 billion to purchase and invest in Regal, which employs 150 people and will now operate as Arada London. With Regal’s 30-year heritage, the acquisition will accelerate delivery of its 10,000-unit pipeline across 11 projects, with the goal of more than tripling that figure within three years. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of Arada, said: “London is one of the world’s leading cities, and our expansion into this market represents a strategic step for Arada in response to the strong demand for residential space. This investment provides a significant opportunity to accelerate the delivery of new residential assets in London, fully aligned with Arada’s long-term strategy to develop high-quality projects that enable people to live healthier and more prosperous lives.”

Alignment of Vision and Expertise

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, group chief executive officer of Arada, said: “We have been impressed by the platform the Regal team has built, as well as the inspirational schemes they are delivering, which reflect our own, long-term focus on experience, amenity, and the customer. Leveraging Arada’s extensive design and placemaking capabilities, delivery track record, and capital resources, we are well placed to support Regal’s evolution and unlock new opportunities for growth.” Jonathan Seal, chief executive of Regal, added: “With nearly 30 years of successful partnerships behind us, Regal has built a reputation for aligning with businesses that share our long-term vision and deep understanding of the real estate industry. It is in this spirit that we have carefully chosen Arada as our partner, a business that shares our values and confidence in the London residential market and our management team’s ambition to continue growing market share and shaping the London skyline.”

Track Record in the UAE and Australia

Over the past eight years, Arada has delivered 10 major projects across the UAE, including Aljada, one of the nation’s largest integrated megaprojects, the Masaar master-planned forested community, and Armani Beach Residences on Palm Jumeirah. In Australia, the developer has announced nine projects totaling 5,000 homes across New South Wales, positioning itself as one of the most prominent players by pipeline. Arada’s UAE and Australia projects represent over Dh95 billion in value and more than 42,000 units, with over 10,000 already completed.

Benefits of the Regal Partnership

The acquisition strengthens both companies by combining skills in delivering large-scale, high-quality residential-led projects. Arada’s proven expertise in master-planned communities complements Regal’s London-focused experience. The deal also creates opportunities to cross-sell properties across both companies’ sales platforms, further enhancing growth potential. With credit ratings of B1 by Moody’s and B+ by Fitch, Arada brings financial strength and development experience to London, guided by a vision of creating transformative spaces that enrich urban living.

Regal’s Legacy and Ongoing Projects

Since its founding, Regal has delivered more than 4,000 homes and 1 million sq ft of commercial space, operating through a fully integrated model covering every development stage — from land acquisition and planning to construction, sales, and property management. Regal’s leadership team and founders will remain with the company following the acquisition. Among Regal’s current developments is Fulton & Fifth in Wembley, which will include 876 homes, with 40% classified as affordable housing. The site also houses Regal Academy, the company’s second training center, offering veterans and local residents construction skills and job opportunities. Rothschild & Co served as Regal’s exclusive financial and strategic adviser for the deal. Looking to explore the most rewarding UAE real estate investment opportunities? Visit Distress Property Finder to discover prime properties, expert insights, and exclusive deals in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the Emirates.

UAE developer Arada enters UK market with 75% stake in Regal