Qurat ul Ain, the founder and chairperson of Drehomes, is a prominent figure in Dubai’s real estate market. Her success story is one of determination and hard work, starting from humble beginnings selling ice cream to becoming a leader in the industry, overseeing transactions worth billions of dirhams. Originally from India, Qurat moved to Dubai for education but soon realized the need to support herself financially. She started working odd jobs and eventually found her passion in sales.
Qurat’s career took off when she joined a hospitality marketing firm and excelled in selling privilege cards for hotels. Her talent in sales led to significant growth opportunities, and she quickly rose through the ranks. Her breakthrough in real estate came when her uncle invited her to join his company during Dubai’s growth cycle in the early 2000s. Despite facing challenges during the financial crisis, Qurat and her brother took over the company and started focusing on leasing properties.
The turning point in Qurat’s career came when she secured a deal with Saudi billionaire Abdul Latif Jameel, who trusted her to purchase commercial spaces in Dubai. This success led to more opportunities and recommendations from Abdul Latif Jameel Group, propelling Drehomes to new heights. The company’s relocation to Business Bay marked a significant milestone, and they have since sold over Dh5 billion worth of properties, establishing Drehomes as a leading real estate agency in Dubai.
As a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry, Qurat has faced challenges but credits the supportive environment in Dubai for her success. Despite the hurdles, she believes in the potential of her team and has seen former employees start their successful property companies. Drehomes now employs around 150 people and has become one of the top agencies for developers in Dubai. The company recently secured an exclusive sales agent contract for Dh2.5 billion, showcasing their continued growth and success in the real estate market.
Qurat’s journey from selling ice cream to managing a multi-billion dirham real estate company is a testament to her hard work and perseverance. Her story serves as inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a mark in Dubai’s competitive business landscape. With a focus on people and culture, Drehomes has created a supportive environment that fosters growth and empowerment for its employees. Despite the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs, Qurat’s success story highlights the opportunities available in Dubai for those willing to work hard and overcome obstacles.