By Dr. Muhammad Ali | DBA, Real Estate Investment Specialist
Introduction: Real Estate in Times of Turbulence
In a world increasingly shaped by geopolitical events, real estate emerges as both a barometer and a buffer. My doctoral dissertation — “Comparative Study of the Impact of Regional Conflicts on the Real Estate Markets in GCC and Turkey” — explores how real estate responds under pressure in two of the world’s most dynamic regions.
Why Regional Conflict Matters for Investors
The Middle East is a region of immense potential and volatility. Civil unrest, proxy wars, and shifting alliances often make headlines — but what about property markets?
Key takeaway: Real estate remains a viable investment — but with caution and context.
GCC vs 🇹🇷 Turkey: Two Different Models of Market Resilience
GCC Real Estate Snapshot
- Powered by oil wealth and sovereign funds
- Quick rebounds after shocks (e.g., Qatar blockade)
- Strategic reforms (e.g., Saudi Vision 2030, Expo 2020)
- Risks: Heavy reliance on oil prices, regional diplomacy shifts
✅ Turkey Real Estate Snapshot
- Challenges: Currency depreciation, political shifts, border instability
- Strengths: High urbanization, active FDI, citizenship-by-investment
- Istanbul remains a preferred hub for Russian, Iranian, and South Asian investors
What My Research Found: Key Insights
1. Conflict Doesn’t Kill Demand — It Redirects It
Investors seek relative safety within unstable regions. Dubai, Doha, and Istanbul act as safe havens.
2. Government Policy Is a Game-Changer
Policy reforms such as Turkey’s citizenship-by-investment attract global investors and cushion market shocks.
3. Perception Drives Behavior
Media portrayal and diplomatic messaging heavily influence investor sentiment — even more than the facts on the ground.
💡 What Smart Investors Should Know
Diversify: Don’t rely on single-sector markets (like oil or tourism)
Look deeper: Turkey might seem unstable, but undervalued urban sectors offer high returns
Invest in sustainability: Eco-certified and climate-resilient projects are the future
Final Thoughts: Resilience Amid Uncertainty
Despite regional instability, both the GCC and Turkey demonstrate adaptive resilience. Strategic positioning, proactive policies, and investor awareness can help these markets not only survive — but thrive during regional shocks.
About the Author
Dr. Muhammad Ali
CEO – Ottoman Real Estate, Istanbul
DBA in Real Estate Investment | 25+ Years in Project Development & Consultancy across GCC, Turkey & South Asia.
