From Ethiopia to Dubai, Hayat Abubeker champions trust as the cornerstone of Elevation Real Estate’s growth.
From Ethiopia to Dubai’s luxury real estate circle, your rise since 2019 has been remarkable. What personal mindset shifts and professional habits helped you thrive in such a competitive market?
I came to Dubai at 19, searching for my path after a difficult experience in China. The moment I arrived at Dubai airport, I saw a real estate advertisement—and I knew instantly that this was the career I wanted. Real estate had always been my dream.
Starting out with zero experience, I faced many rejections and challenges while applying to brokerages. What helped me was belief and patience. I accepted that growth takes time and focused on learning every day, staying disciplined, and not giving up when things got tough. Instead of rushing success, I concentrated on building skills and consistency. That mindset allowed me to grow in one of the most competitive markets in the world.
You’re known for a client-first approach and handling high-value transactions with precision and trust. How does trust manifest in luxury real estate, especially when deals involve life-changing sums?
For me, trust is about thinking long term. I don’t just sell properties—I build lasting relationships. In luxury real estate, trust comes from honesty, clear communication, and always prioritizing the client’s best interests. I ensure that clients understand every detail before making decisions. My personal motto is simple: I don’t want one transaction, I want a long-term partnership. When clients feel respected and supported, trust grows naturally—and that trust is far more valuable than any single deal.
Closing a record-breaking Dh166 million single property transaction is a defining milestone. What did that deal teach you about preparation, negotiation, and leadership under pressure?
This deal reinforced that consistency and relationships are paramount. I had been working with this client for over two years before finalizing the transaction, dedicating that time to building trust not only with them but also with their family. Thorough preparation allowed me to deeply understand the client’s needs and remain patient throughout every stage. The negotiation focused on crafting solutions that truly benefited the client, rather than applying pressure. Ultimately, this experience demonstrated that strong relationships and persistent effort are the keys to achieving results.
As a young CEO and role model for women and entrepreneurs from emerging backgrounds, what is the leadership legacy you want to build in Dubai, and what message do you want the next generation to take from your story?
I aim to build a strong, trusted empire, not just occupy a position at the top. I want my name to be synonymous with integrity, loyalty, and trust. For me, success isn’t measured solely by numbers—it’s about reputation, long-term value, and impact. I want people to associate my work with reliability and meaningful results. For the next generation, especially women and young entrepreneurs, I hope my story shows that it’s possible to create something powerful through honesty, consistency, and dedication. My focus is on cultivating an elevated and trusted real estate brand that stands the test of time.
What does building a legacy mean to you beyond financial success?
Building a legacy goes far beyond money or accolades. It’s about trust, values, and the lasting impression you leave on people. To me, a true legacy means being known for honesty, consistency, and doing the right thing, every time. It’s about cultivating strong relationships and making a positive impact on clients, partners, and everyone around you. When people trust my name and feel confident working with me, that is more meaningful than any figure on a balance sheet. That trust and impact—that is the legacy I strive to build.
