September 23, 2025
UAE-based Arada has acquired 75% of UK property developer Regal, aiming to triple its UK project pipeline over the next three years as part of its international expansion strategy.
UAE-based property developer Arada has made a strategic move to expand its international footprint by acquiring a 75% stake in UK-based property developer Regal, signaling a significant step in the company’s growth strategy and its ambitions to become a major player in the global real estate market. The deal, announced yesterday, outlines plans for Arada to triple its UK development pipeline within the next three years, marking one of the most substantial cross-border real estate transactions involving a Middle Eastern developer in recent years.
The acquisition comes at a time when the UAE’s real estate sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, driven by strong domestic demand, foreign investment, and government-backed initiatives. Arada, already a prominent developer in the UAE, aims to leverage Regal’s established presence in the UK property market to diversify its portfolio, access new revenue streams, and bring its expertise in sustainable and master-planned communities to European markets.
Arada’s CEO emphasized that the acquisition is not only a financial investment but also a strategic partnership that aligns with the company’s long-term vision. By combining Regal’s local market knowledge and Arada’s development expertise, the companies plan to accelerate delivery of residential and mixed-use projects across key UK regions. This approach is expected to create hundreds of new jobs, stimulate local economies, and meet increasing demand for high-quality housing in urban and suburban areas of the UK.
The UK real estate market has seen renewed interest from international investors, driven by post-pandemic recovery, favorable mortgage rates, and a growing appetite for residential developments that combine sustainability, lifestyle amenities, and affordability. Arada’s entry into this market signals confidence in its long-term prospects, as well as a strategic effort to diversify investments outside the Middle East. Analysts suggest that such cross-border acquisitions could set a precedent for other UAE developers looking to expand into Europe and other high-growth regions.
Financially, the deal is expected to strengthen Arada’s balance sheet while providing Regal with access to capital required for scaling its operations. The acquisition agreement includes plans for shared technological platforms, design innovations, and sustainability initiatives, reflecting Arada’s commitment to modern, environmentally conscious development practices. These initiatives include energy-efficient building standards, smart home technologies, and community-focused amenities that are designed to enhance quality of life for residents while promoting long-term environmental sustainability.
The transaction also highlights the growing interconnection between Middle Eastern and European real estate markets. Investors from the UAE and broader GCC region have increasingly sought opportunities in stable, high-demand property markets, such as the UK, as part of portfolio diversification and risk management strategies. By securing a majority stake in Regal, Arada positions itself to tap into these trends, enhance investor confidence, and build a platform for further international expansion.
Industry experts believe the acquisition could trigger additional collaborations and partnerships between UAE and UK developers. With the backing of Arada, Regal is expected to accelerate project delivery timelines, expand into new regions, and implement cutting-edge design and construction techniques. The combined entity is expected to focus on creating sustainable communities, incorporating mixed-use developments that integrate residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.
In conclusion, Arada’s acquisition of 75% of UK developer Regal marks a major milestone in the UAE property developer’s international expansion strategy. By committing to triple its UK pipeline over the next three years, Arada demonstrates confidence in the long-term growth of the UK real estate market and its own capacity to deliver world-class, sustainable developments abroad. This move not only strengthens Arada’s market position but also signals growing collaboration between Middle Eastern and European property sectors, offering opportunities for investors, communities, and stakeholders on both continents.
