Arada expands into UK market with Regal acquisition

UAE real estate developer Arada has acquired a 75% stake in Regal, a London-based developer specializing in residential and mixed-use projects.

Arada Regal signing

This move signifies Arada's entry into the UK market and its second international expansion, aligning with the company's goal of geographical business growth and diversification. Having established a strong presence in the UAE since 2017 and expanded into Australia in 2024, the Regal acquisition immediately provides Arada with a foothold in London, enabling rapid and large-scale development.
As part of the deal, Arada is committing an initial AED 2.5 bn (€577.9 mln) to acquire and invest in Regal, a company with 150 employees, which will be rebranded as Arada London. This acquisition of a company with a 30-year history will expedite the development of Regal's existing pipeline of 10,000 residential units across 11 projects. Arada aims to more than triple this pipeline within the next three years.
The acquisition offers several other attractive advantages, including the fusion of complementary skills and expertise in developing high-quality, amenity-rich residential projects. The transaction also creates synergy, opening up opportunities to cross-sell residential properties through the sales platforms of both businesses.
His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi said: “London is one of the world’s leading cities, and our expansion into this market represents a strategic step for Arada in response to the strong demand for residential space. This investment provides a significant opportunity to accelerate the delivery of new residential assets in London, fully aligned with Arada’s long-term strategy to develop high-quality projects that enable people to live healthier and more prosperous lives.”
Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, commented: “We have been impressed by the platform the Regal team has built, as well as the inspirational schemes they are delivering, which reflect our own, long-term focus on experience, amenity and the customer. Leveraging Arada’s extensive design and placemaking capabilities, delivery track record and capital resources, we are well placed to support Regal’s evolution and unlock new opportunities for growth.”
Jonathan Seal, chief executive of Regal, added: “With nearly 30 years of successful partnerships behind us, Regal has built a reputation for aligning with businesses that share our long-term vision and deep understanding of the real estate industry. It is in this spirit that we have carefully chosen Arada as our partner, a business that shares our values and confidence in the London residential market and our management team’s ambition to continue growing market share and shaping the London skyline.”
Since its establishment, Regal has developed over 4,000 residential units and 92,900 m2 of commercial space. As part of the acquisition, Regal's executive team and founders will remain with the company.
Among Regal's current projects is Fulton & Fifth in Wembley, a mixed-use residential development featuring 876 homes, 40% of which will be affordable. This development also hosts Regal’s second Regal Academy, which offers construction skills training and job opportunities to military personnel and local residents.
Rothschild & Co served as the sole financial and strategic advisor to Regal during this transaction.