Afghan cricket sensation Rashid Khan has been named the new brand ambassador for Dubai-based MH Developers, a leading real estate firm making major strides in the emirate’s booming property sector.

The announcement comes at a time when Dubai’s real estate market is hitting new highs, with the first half of 2025 showing a 15% year-on-year rise in property prices and a 20% increase in transaction volumes, driven by strong investor confidence, economic stability, and world-class infrastructure.

Cricket and Construction Come Together

Known for his record-breaking feats on the pitch, including being the fastest bowler to reach 100 wickets in T20 internationals, Rashid Khan brings his global appeal and winning mindset to the real estate arena.

“The UAE has always been a second home for Afghan cricket, offering support and opportunity during difficult times,” said Khan. 

“This collaboration with MH Developers is a natural fit for me, professionally and personally, as it reflects shared values of resilience, growth, and building a better future.”

A Strategic Move by MH Developers

Murtaza Hashmi, CEO of MH Developers, said the partnership with Khan is part of a broader strategy to connect with new audiences and tap into Dubai’s rising profile as a global hub for luxury living and smart investment.

“Dubai offers a secure, well-regulated environment that continues to attract buyers and investors from around the world,” said Hashmi. 

“Rashid Khan’s international reputation and unwavering pursuit of excellence align perfectly with our mission to deliver top-tier real estate solutions during this exciting time for the market.”

What’s Next for MH Developers?

With this partnership in place, MH Developers plans to roll out signature projects that blend sophisticated design with solid investment potential, tailored to the modern lifestyle demands of Dubai’s growing resident and investor base.

If you’ve been dreaming of owning a home in Dubai but weren’t sure where to start, the city just made it easier. A brand-new initiative, launched by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is offering residents a chance to step onto the property ladder with exclusive incentives and support.

Called the First-Time Home Buyer Programme, the initiative is open to all UAE residents aged 18 and above who don’t currently own a freehold home in Dubai. It offers early access to newly launched developments, special prices on homes valued up to Dh5 million, and custom mortgage solutions from leading local banks.

At its core, the programme is designed to make homeownership more accessible and attractive to both Emiratis and expats, encouraging long-term investment and helping residents put down real roots in the city.

Announced during a press conference at DLD, the launch was attended by senior officials, including Majid Al Marri, CEO of the Real Estate Registration Sector at DLD, and Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation at DET, along with representatives from top developers and banks.

Here’s what you get as a first-time buyer in Dubai:

• Priority access to upcoming property launches
• Preferential pricing on selected units up to Dh5 million
• Tailored mortgages from banks, including Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank, Mashreq, and others

Major developers such as Emaar, DAMAC, Nakheel, Azizi, Binghatti, and Meraas are already on board, ensuring a wide selection of properties across the city.

Officials say the programme not only aims to help more residents become homeowners, but also supports Dubai’s long-term economic vision, as part of the Real Estate Strategy 2033 and the D33 Agenda.

“Dubai’s real estate market must reflect the diversity and ambition of its residents,” said Omar Bu Shehab, Director-General of DLD. “This programme opens the door for more people to invest in their futures here.”

Whether you’re a young professional thinking of buying your first apartment or a family looking to make Dubai your permanent base, the First-Time Home Buyer Programme could be your opportunity to finally make that move.

Nakheel, a subsidiary of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has awarded three major contracts worth over Dh750 million for infrastructure development on Palm Jebel Ali, a landmark waterfront project poised to redefine luxury living in Dubai. The works are expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2026.

The contracts have been awarded to DBB Contracting LLC, a company with a strong track record on the island. DBB has previously delivered key projects on Palm Jebel Ali, including road construction and public access infrastructure.

A Visionary Mega Development

Palm Jebel Ali is one of Nakheel’s most ambitious projects, unveiled by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The development supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and serves as a key pillar in the emirate’s expansion westward, marking the rise of a new growth corridor in Jebel Ali.

What’s Included in the Infrastructure Works?

The awarded contracts cover comprehensive infrastructure across Fronds A to G, including:

• Utility connections
• Excavation and backfilling
• Road and pavement construction
• Power distribution (11kV) and telecom utility works

In the Spine District, the works will include:

• Major and secondary road development
• Utility mains and links to fronds
• Grading and associated infrastructure for DEWA’s power transmission line

A New Era for Waterfront Living

Spanning 13.4 km, Palm Jebel Ali will feature 16 fronds and over 90 km of beachfront, aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to expand public beach access.

Designed with smart city technologies, sustainable features, and walkable mixed-use neighbourhoods, the island is set to become a world-class destination for residents, tourists, and investors alike, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and seamless mobility solutions.