Ramadan is an occasion in Dubai when life slows down and becomes more peaceful. The majority of the population observes fasting and prayer. But for real estate agents, the work continues. Let's discover what it's like to be a real estate agent in Dubai during Ramadan.
As the sun rises, real estate agents begin their working day. Muslim real estate agents start their morning routine before sunrise during Ramadan. Their day starts with suhoor, the pre-dawn meal. They dress professionally to show they take their job seriously and care about their clients.
Real estate agents ensure they have all the documents, marketing materials, and gadgets they need for work. They manage their time to accommodate meetings and property visits for the day. They focus on what their clients want to ensure every meeting is helpful and considerate.
As the day progresses, they meet with clients, conduct property viewings, and negotiate deals. Muslim real estate agents allocate specific times during the afternoon for prayer and reading religious texts. They also take short breaks to enjoy iftar, the meal that breaks the fast, with their clients or colleagues.
In the evenings, real estate agents attend meetings with clients who are not available during the day. Evenings are a great time for them to meet clients and discuss business. Being a real estate agent is more than just about working 9-5. Many agents make time for exercise, catch-ups over coffee, and personal growth. And, of course, there's always a chance to celebrate at a fancy restaurant after closing a deal.
The beauty of this job is that no two days are the same. One day, real estate agents could be completely busy with viewings and driving from one location to another. The next day, they could be in the office most of the day, completing admin tasks.
One of the main hurdles is the reduced working hours during the day. Government offices, private enterprises, and retail outlets adjust their operating hours to accommodate fasting employees. With shorter business hours, real estate agents make the most available time to meet their clients' needs.
Another challenge is the slowdown in the property market during Ramadan. Some individuals and families postpone their property-related decisions until after Ramadan. So, this results in a temporary decline in sales and rentals. Real estate agents work hard to find new clients, keep in touch with current ones, and explore alternative ways to maintain a steady business flow during this period. They also work with developers, offering discounts and promotions during this period to attract buyers who might postpone their property purchases.
For the city's 35,000 real estate agents, competition is tough. They don't get a regular salary but rely on making deals to earn money. Sometimes, they spend up to a year trying to find clients. The heightened competition among real estate agents in Dubai during Ramadan adds to their challenges. With fewer active buyers and renters, agents work harder to stand out and secure business.
To cope with the short business hours, real estate agents utilise the following strategies:
Real estate agents offer flexible appointment slots, like early mornings or late evenings, so clients can pick what works best for them and make the most of the day.
They utilise technology to provide virtual property tours so clients can explore properties from their homes. Virtual tours reduce the need for physical showings and save time for both parties.
It is really important to respect and understand Muslim clients' religious and cultural customs. Real estate agents avoid appointments during prayer times and use respectful language.
They build a strong network of colleagues and partners who can assist with property viewings and client interactions when needed.
Every day is new for real estate agents, but what remains constant is calling clients and arranging meetings. And, of course, helping people to get their dream homes. Real estate agents work hard all day and adapt to the changing trends during Ramadan. They face challenges but also find opportunities in the property market. They put their clients first and follow the values of this special month to build strong relationships. Successful real estate agents understand the nature of the holy month, adapt strategies accordingly, and succeed in their business.