Finding a home in Muscat has turned into a real challenge for many people, as shown by the experience of Mohammed Al Riyami.
Mohammed, an Omani citizen, began his search for a new home expecting it to be straightforward. He browsed listings on social media and various property apps, but quickly became frustrated. “I sent clear details about what I wanted,” he said. “But many brokers didn’t respond, and the ones who did offered properties that were too expensive or in areas I didn’t want.”
After weeks of searching without success, Mohammed realised he had to change what he was looking for. “I had to give up on some things I really wanted, which felt disappointing. It shouldn’t be this hard to find a home.”
This struggle highlights a worrying trend in Oman’s real estate market, which has become increasingly complicated. What was once a straightforward process involving a few local brokers has morphed into a challenging maze. The increase in listings on social media and non-specialised platforms, alongside rising property prices in popular areas, has left many potential buyers feeling lost.
Recent statistics indicate that the real estate market in Oman is indeed growing, albeit complexities exist. According to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, real estate transactions in Oman reached approximately OMR 1.94 billion (around USD 5.04 billion) in 2022, reflecting a 2.2% increase from the previous year. This growth reflects a broader trend seen in many countries worldwide, where property prices have surged due to a mixture of demand and low inventory.
Badr bin Salim Al Rahbi recognised these challenges and saw a pressing need for improvement. After spending five years in real estate, he decided to create Doorly, a digital platform designed to streamline the home search process. “With Doorly, we aim to make the real estate process better for clients and brokers,” he explains. “We’re not competing with brokers; we work with them to build trust and help people find homes.”
A Shift in Global Real Estate Practices
The ongoing challenges Mohammed faces reflect a global trend in real estate. In many countries, traditional buying and selling methods are increasingly giving way to technology-driven solutions. According to the National Association of Realtors, nearly 97% of homebuyers now start their property search online. The rise of digital platforms has created a more informed consumer base, but it has also led to greater expectations for convenience and transparency in the buying process.
In markets like the United States, the boom of property technology (proptech) firms exemplifies this shift. Companies like Zillow, Redfin, and Opendoor have revolutionised how people buy and sell homes, offering innovative tools that make it easier for buyers to find properties quickly. These platforms allow users to filter search criteria, view detailed property information, and even conduct virtual tours from the comfort of their own homes.
Similarly, in the UK, platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla have become household names, simplifying the house-hunting process with user-friendly interfaces and extensive listings. This technological evolution not only streamlines the search but enhances overall customer satisfaction—a factor that is becoming essential in competitive markets.
Oman’s Growing Real Estate Scene
In Oman, as the property market grows, the need for modern solutions becomes increasingly evident. The government has launched several initiatives aimed at boosting the real estate sector, including efforts to encourage foreign investment. The Oman Investment Authority has actively promoted partnerships between local and international developers to spur growth, which has helped attract more substantial projects and boost the overall market.
As potential buyers like Mohammed navigate a rapidly changing landscape, platforms like Doorly are stepping up to fill the gaps. The platform provides solutions for both buying and renting properties. With an enhanced commitment to customer satisfaction, Doorly follows up with clients if there aren’t any suitable options available and even offers a money-back guarantee for consultation services if clients are unhappy with the results.
Currently, Doorly operates primarily in Muscat and Barka, aiming to simplify the home search process for residential properties. Clients can submit their requests through the mobile app, website, or even via WhatsApp. The system promises to protect client privacy while efficiently forwarding requests to brokers who can provide tailored offers.
The Road Ahead
As Doorly develops its business model, it positions itself as a significant player in both local and regional real estate markets. The platform has already garnered recognition, being named one of Oman’s top five emerging startups, celebrating its innovative approach to real estate challenges.
The lesson from Mohammed’s journey is clear: while the path to homeownership can be fraught with obstacles, the digital solutions emerging in Oman and around the world offer hope. With technology paving the way for a more streamlined and user-friendly process, individuals navigating the complex real estate terrain in Muscat may soon find that their search for a home is no longer the daunting challenge it once was.
The evolution of the real estate landscape in Oman mirrors trends seen across the globe, revealing the increasing interplay between traditional practices and innovative technology. As individuals like Mohammed Al Riyami confront hurdles in their home searches, they can find solace in the fact that advancements in technology are reshaping what is possible in real estate.
Experts believe that as Oman’s economy diversifies and attracts more investment, the real estate sector will likely continue to grow. The introduction of smart technologies and AI-driven solutions like Doorly represents a shift towards a more efficient, customer-centric approach to property transactions. These advancements align with global real estate practices, which emphasise accessibility, transparency, and user experience.
Furthermore, as many countries have embraced the digital revolution within the industry, Oman stands at a crucial juncture. By aligning itself with these global trends, Oman can create a real estate environment that not only meets the needs of its citizens but also attracts international buyers looking to invest in emerging markets.
Looking ahead, it is crucial for the Omani government and private sector stakeholders to collaborate in promoting innovations such as digital platforms. As real estate markets become more competitive, building a robust support system that incorporates technology can help foster trust and reliability among clients and brokers alike.
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