Inside The Story
Trust & Transparency: DRE’s 18-Year Legacy
- Nov 03,2025
As Dubai’s real estate market continues to evolve, leaders like Qurat Ul Ain, Co-Founder and Chief Legal Officer of DRE Homes, are shaping how brands earn—and sustain—client trust. In this exclusive interview by Binesh Babu Panicker, founder & editor-in-chief of Property Time, Ms. Qurat reflects on her early entrepreneurial journey, the ethical foundation behind DRE Homes, and her insights for the next generation of real estate professionals.
From Ice Cream Sales to Real Estate Leadership
Ms. Qurat’s career began with humble roots—selling ice cream and hotel memberships while studying at the American University of Sharjah. “Those part-time jobs taught me grit, empathy, and the art of closing a sale,” she recalls. “Listening, handling objections, and celebrating small wins built the foundation for what would become DRE Homes.” Together with her brother Mudassir Wani, she co-founded DRE Homes in 2007—just before the global recession—and navigated through it with resilience and integrity.
Building a Brand That Stands for Integrity
Over the past 18 years, DRE Homes has become synonymous with professionalism and transparency. “A brand is what clients feel when they hear your name,” Ms. Qurat says. “For us, that meant delivering on promises, training our agents to the highest standards, maintaining quick response times, and ensuring every interaction reflects trust and service excellence.”
Ethics at the Core of Every Transaction
Ms. Qurat emphasizes that real estate is, at its heart, a trust-driven business. “We document all fee structures up front and guide clients responsibly, even if it means earning less on a deal,” she explains. “Short-term gains might boost numbers, but long-term loyalty is what sustains a brand.”
Adapting to Market Shifts and New Frontiers
Discussing emerging markets like Ras Al Khaimah, Ms. Qurat draws parallels to Dubai two decades ago. “It’s an exciting landscape—affordable, high-yield, and ideal for investors seeking lifestyle balance,” she notes. “The key is aligning client goals with market opportunities.”
Resilience Through Every Cycle
Reflecting on DRE’s journey, Ms. Qurat recalls pivotal milestones—from weathering the 2008 downturn by pivoting to leasing, to securing a landmark corporate sale in JLT that propelled the company’s expansion. “Resilience isn’t about never failing—it’s about how fast you refocus,” she shares.
Guidance for the Next Generation of Agents
Her message to young agents is clear: “Start with leasing—it builds networks and confidence. Then specialize and become the go-to expert in your community.” She also stresses integrity over incentives. “I value expertise over a small percentage. My success stories speak louder than any short-term deal.”
Inspired by Visionary Leadership
Citing role models like Rasha Hassan, Amira Sajwani, and Mohamed Alabbar, Ms.Qurat highlights the power of vision and discipline. “These leaders remind us that success is built on strategy, consistency, and client-first thinking.”
The DRE Philosophy: Technology Meets Integrity
“Embrace innovation,” Ms. Qurat concludes. “Use CRM systems, virtual tours, and data-driven insights—but never abandon old-school values like punctuality, preparation, and ethics. Real estate can transform lives if you lead with purpose and trust.”
