Dubai Property Podcast · Dubai Property Podcast

How to Save for a Property Deposit Faster in the UAE Real Estate Market

February 28, 2026·18 min·1 clip
Damien reveals how silent spending habits can slash your borrowing power by up to 40% when saving for a property deposit.
The episode begins with host Craig welcoming listeners and sharing listener feedback, including a shout-out to Wendy and Justin in London who decided to list their UK property after hearing a previous episode. The main topic is introduced: saving for a property deposit by addressing silent spending habits. Damien, a lending expert, explains that small daily purchases can slash borrowing power by up to 40%, calling it a 'silent killer.' He and Mario discuss common leaks like unused subscriptions, with Mario noting how free trials on social media can lead to unexpected charges. Craig provides a market update, mentioning nearly 18 billion dirhams in Dubai property transactions last week, including ultra-prime sales on Palm Jumeirah. Damien advises treating household finances like a business, auditing the last 90 days of spending; he shares that 90% of his clients found $1,000-$2,000 in monthly savings this way. He also suggests a 'money fast'—spending no money one day a week to reset behavior. The conversation shifts to regional markets, with Mario highlighting Ajman's rental growth as a sign of migration and affordability. Finally, they discuss the UAE's short-term rental market outperforming global cities like New York and Sydney due to regulation and tourism. Damien emphasizes the importance of financial education, and the episode concludes with practical advice for listeners.

As heard by us

A practical saving angle set against a market still moving.

The episode treats household finances as the real obstacle to buying property, and it is at its best when it shifts from broad Dubai commentary to the small, familiar drains that slow buyers down: subscriptions, impulse downloads, and the habit of being caught out by paid…

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

You want a cleaner read on Dubai property and your savings.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →
Listen to the show on