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ABOUT

At URBAN, we are redefining real estate brokerage in the UAE. Founded to meet the rising demand from forward-thinking property developers, we specialize in strategic planning, marketing, sales, and payment collection, offering a full-spectrum solution built for today’s fast-paced real estate market.
In a short span, we’ve established ourselves as a trusted force within Dubai’s dynamic property scene, successfully leading the launch and sale of multiple high-profile developments. What truly sets us apart is our exclusive access to carefully curated off-plan projects in some of the UAE’s most promising, up-and-coming neighborhoods, each selected for its exceptional return potential and long-term investment value. So, whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, URBAN delivers opportunities that align with lasting capital growth.

Our culture is powered by ambition, innovation, and authenticity. At URBAN, careers don’t just grow, they accelerate. With top-tier mentorship, advanced tools, and a team-first environment, we empower our people to reach their highest potential, both professionally and personally.

Backed by our parent company, One Broker Group, a market leader in launching and managing exclusive developments across the UAE, we have the strength and reach to drive real impact.

If you’re seeking a future-focused real estate brand where you can build your career, grow your personal brand, and achieve financial success, then join URBAN, and let’s shape the future of real estate together.

Careers

Current Vacancies

Associate
Property Associate
Senior Property Associate
Off-Plan Sales Manager
Marketing Specialist
Multimedia Photographer & Designer
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Projects

One Residence
Velor
VYB
PRIVE

Team

Islam El Dafrawy

Co-Founder & CEO

Umar Bin Farooq

Co-Founder

Shabana Farooq

Managing Partner & COO

James Khoury

Managing Director

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Mission and Values

Education & Coaching

Career & People Development

Financial Income & Stability

Gender Equality & Diversity

Wellness & Health

Investor Relationship Management

Corporate Social Responsibility

CONTACT

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Islam EL dafrawy

Co-Founder & CEO

With over 18 years of experience in real estate, investment, and hospitality, Islam El Dafrawy brings a wealth of knowledge, commercial insight, and strategic leadership to the property development space. For 16 years, Islam played a pivotal role at EMAAR, where he was instrumental in driving sales growth and spearheading landmark initiatives that shaped the city’s iconic skyline. His tenure there not only established him as a respected figure in the industry but also sharpened his ability to identify and seize market opportunities in a dynamic and competitive landscape.

In 2023, Islam embarked on a new chapter, leveraging his deep industry experience and entrepreneurial mindset to co-found URBAN where he now serves as Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, URBAN has quickly emerged as a standout development management firm, known for its boutique, client-centric approach and its team of professional real estate experts. Islam’s mission is to deliver the same caliber of strategy, service, and success to boutique and mid-sized developers that he once brought to one of the region’s largest real estate brands.

Driven by a passion for excellence and innovation, Islam is committed to elevating the standards of real estate development in the UAE, offering tailored guidance, premium service, and unmatched market insight to every partner and project he leads.

 

Umar Bin Farooq

Co-Founder

Umar Bin Farooq is a dynamic leader and visionary entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the Dubai real estate industry. As the Co-Founder of URBAN Properties, Umar brings a bold, forward-thinking approach that continues to redefine excellence in UAE property landscape.

Fifteen years ago, Umar founded One Broker Group, a pioneering real estate firm that was among the first to introduce the concept of Master Brokerage in the UAE. Under his leadership, the company curated and led the launch and sales of some of the most exclusive boutique off-plan developments across the region. His strategic foresight and deep market knowledge positioned OBG as an industry leader.
 
At URBAN, Umar continues to challenge convention and set new benchmarks for innovation and performance. His leadership style empowers teams, fosters a results-driven culture, and drives sustainable growth. Renowned for scaling businesses and delivering high-impact execution, Umar consistently transforms challenges into opportunities.
 
With a relentless commitment to client success, innovation, and market leadership, Umar Bin Farooq remains a standout figure in the region’s ever-evolving real estate scene.

Shabana Farooq

Managing Partner & COO

Shabana Farooq is the Managing Partner & COO of Urban Properties, where she brings over 16 years of executive leadership in the telecom industry to the forefront of real estate innovation. Renowned for building and leading high-performing sales and business development teams, Shabana has a proven track record of driving growth, delivering exceptional client experiences, and inspiring teams to exceed ambitious goals.

Her transition into real estate was driven by a passion for creating meaningful impact, not just in business, but in people’s lives. Leveraging her deep expertise in strategic leadership, team development, and customer-centric growth, she now channels her energy into helping clients and investors navigate the real estate landscape with clarity and confidence.

At Urban Properties, Shabana is the architect of a values-driven culture that prioritizes trust, innovation, and service excellence. Her leadership philosophy is grounded in one core belief: people come first. Whether fostering relationships with clients, mentoring her team, or collaborating with partners, she is dedicated to building a business where integrity and long-term value guide every decision.
Approachable, visionary, and fiercely committed to excellence, Shabana is leading Urban Properties into its next era, where purpose meets performance, and success is measured not just by numbers, but by the lives impacted along the way.

James Khoury

Managing Director

For almost 20 years, James has been a driving force in Dubai’s real estate sector, helping to mould and shape the industry into what it is today. As Managing Director of URBAN, he brings a wealth of experience and a track record of transforming real estate companies into some of the region’s most successful and respected brands. His leadership has consistently delivered growth, built strong teams, and redefined industry standards.

James pioneered UK recruitment roadshows, setting a new benchmark in international talent acquisition. He has hired more than 1,500 sales agents throughout his career and was the first to introduce KPIs in Dubai real estate, alongside launching the region’s first Real Estate Academy and implementing leadership coaching within the sector. These innovations have helped develop hundreds of careers and empowered agents to become top performers and leaders.

Beyond business performance, James is a committed advocate for sustainability and ethical leadership. He actively promotes corporate social responsibility and serves on the board of AZRAQ, supporting conservation and environmental initiatives.

James’s legacy is one of purpose, impact, and integrity. His influence continues to shape high-performing businesses and inspire people to lead with vision, resilience, and compassion.