At the heart of our endeavors were three remarkable individuals: Waqar Hasan, CPM®, Muhammad Jawad UrRehman, CPM®, and Abdelaziz Amarouayache, CPM®. These trailblazers, the first CPMs (Certified Property Managers®) in the area, embody the spirit of innovation and dedication to excellence that defines IREM.
Waqar Hasan, CPM®, a driving force behind IREM's initiatives in the UAE, wears many hats – from serving on the International Advisory Council, to spearheading collaborations with key stakeholders like the Dubai Land Department promoting IREM and our certifications. He’s also worked with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce to launch a Dubai Real Estate Brokerage and Property Business Group - a key piece of the puzzle to advancing and promoting property management in Dubai. Last year Waqar was on the presidential taskforce developing IREM’s international strategy, and he’s an IREM-approved instructor leading IREM courses in the UAE.
While we were there, Waqar even handled the onsite logistics of managing an IREM Member Recognition event held April 25, including setting up the venue and catering, securing sponsors, hiring a photographer and videographer, working with Leah Misbin, MA and Senior Director, International Programs at IREM, to build the invitee list. He joined Leah in countless meetings around the country to promote IREM to companies and associations and to speak with current IREM licensees.
Waqar’s time and energy underscore his unwavering commitment to promoting IREM and the property management profession in the region.
Muhammad Jawad Ur Rehman, CPM®, alongside Waqar, played a pivotal role in our UAE journey. He made introductions for IREM to ThinkProp, a crucial group and an IREM licensee, he promoted cooperation with RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors), another major player in the region, and he arranged property tours for the trip. Jawad’s also an IREM- approved instructor and frequent contributor to IREM’s blog content.
He hopes to add several more courses to the current IREM curriculum in the region and introduce additional IREM certifications.
Abdelaziz Amarouayache, CPM®, Head of residential, office, and commercial properties at Al Ghurair Real Estate, provided invaluable insights into the local market and arranged a property tour that offered us a glimpse into the dynamic landscape of UAE real estate.
Throughout our week-long visit, IREM representatives engaged in a series of meetings and events aimed at advancing the property management industry in the UAE. From discussions with IREM licensees like Innovation Experts Real Estate Institute (IEREI) and ThinkProp, to exploratory talks with leading property management companies like Provis Estate Management, our agenda was brimming with opportunities for collaboration and growth.
In addition to formal meetings, we embarked on property tours, including a visit to SHA Island by IMKAN Properties. Situated on a private island between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, SHA Residences Emirates integrates beachfront residences, a wellness clinic, and a health resort for a healthy island living experience. IREM representatives also had an opportunity to share educational offerings at The Middle East Council of Shopping Centers & Retailers, leveraging IREM’s expertise in this asset class.
The resilience and innovation demonstrated by the UAE in the face of challenges, such as the historic rainfall event just a few days before IREM’s visit, serve as a testament to the country's spirit of adaptability and progress. As IREM continues to expand its footprint in the UAE's real estate management landscape, we’re inspired by the opportunities for growth and collaboration that lie ahead.
The week in the UAE was not just a journey of professional engagement, but also a celebration of cultural exchange and mutual learning. We’re grateful to our hosts, partners, and colleagues for their warm hospitality and unwavering support, and look forward to building a brighter future for the property management industry in the UAE and beyond.