Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai are among the top-tier global metropolis. In addition to being well-known for its Diversity, Inclusiveness, Culture, Appeal, Traditions, and Heritage, it is also well-known for having some of the most impressive man-made structures in the world.

These works of architecture are, without a doubt, fascinating me to no end, and I can't help but admit it. My interest has been piqued by three new mixed-use under-construction developments One Za'abeel by Ithra Dubai, Pixel by Imkan, and Uptown Tower by DMCC. As a Property Manager, it is one of the morning pleasures that I have to savour while I am driving, walking about, or even taking a stroll. This is one of the things that makes my job so rewarding. 

I refer to property managers as "all-rounders" since they are qualified professionals to address a wide array of tenant complaints. Property owners hire property managers to handle the day-to-day operations of their real estate assets, including leasing, maintenance and repairs, accounting, staffing, and tenant satisfaction, as well as to respond to tenant inquiries and complaints. In addition, property managers are accountable for resolving any issues and resolving any legal challenges that may arise. It takes a team of professionals to successfully manage and maintain a high-quality asset, I believe that it is high time that we begin discussing the possibility of bringing industry standards up to par. 

I propose a three-way strategy for developing a consensus across the board.

To begin, there ought to be a structure for doing the due diligence of a Property Management firm. It is essential to place a primary emphasis on quality because of the substantial part that it plays in determining the overall performance of a property portfolio. Even though it is the responsibility of the owner to conduct research before hiring a management company, investors would be well served to choose from a pool of accredited firms that have certified Property Managers and licensed staff. The market will continue to grow, and as a result, investors' confidence that their properties are in excellent hands will increase. The time has come, in my opinion, to discuss the credibility issues that have plagued the property management profession. Both cities are home to thousands of real estate companies, many of which also offer property management services. including local, regional, national, and even international firms. The framework should also include a plan for accrediting property management firms and a process for licensing property managers. This would be in the best interests of our residents, tenants, owners, and, perhaps most significantly, these magnificent neighbourhoods and facilities. As an industry, we require the trust of property owners, investors, and clients that we have the skills to maximise the value of any property, regardless of class, while also providing an exceptional experience.

Second, I see an opportunity for an International Property Management body to establish a forum/chapter to interact with industry peers, foster a culture of collaboration, and take a huge step toward the development of the industry best practices for the region. There is a vacuum in the region that has not yet been filled. Community Management is well served by CAI's Middle East chapter, RICS Middle East is promoting the real estate profession, the Facility Management industry is well represented by IWFM and IFMA, but there is no credible international property management forum in sight. We are also one of the industries with a talent shortage that is expected to grow at 8% and above year-on-year. This requirement must be met in order to give a platform for a career path for beginners to professionals, allowing them to develop their knowledge to prepare for the dynamic challenges of the market.

Last, let us speak up! It is about time that the value of property management be recognised. Property management is distinct from other management spheres such as facility management, community management, and project management. Property Management is equally as important as any other kind of business, and it is crucial to address the issue of engagement not when the value of the property has already started to decline, but rather when the transition from projects to operations is imminent. Consequently, I believe we must all contribute, and the more we say, the better it will become.

This article is written by Muhammad Jawad, Property Manager, Imkan.