Shaping the Future of Real Estate and Hospitality: How Sarah Mahood is Leading the Charge in the Middle East

In the Middle East, where skyscrapers rise from the desert and megaprojects stretch the limits of innovation, the real estate sector is in the midst of a transformation. With global investment pouring into the region, a new breed of leaders is driving change. At the forefront of this revolution is Sarah Mahood, the Co-Managing Shareholder of Greenberg Traurig’s UAE office and the Middle East Co-Head of Real Estate and Hospitality. With over 14 years of experience in the region, Sarah is not just observing the changes but actively shaping them.

From the explosive growth of branded residences to the surge in smart city developments and the integration of sustainability into every facet of construction, Sarah’s expertise and strategic vision are guiding Greenberg Traurig to new heights. In this exclusive cover story, Sarah takes us through her remarkable journey, the dynamic evolution of the Middle East’s real estate sector, and the bold steps she’s taking to ensure that Greenberg Traurig remains at the forefront of this rapidly changing market.

“The future of the real estate sector in the region is filled with opportunity, with the primary goal of establishing the region as the pre-eminent location for investment and growth.”

A Vision for the Future: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

When Sarah Mahood envisions the future of real estate in the Middle East, she sees a region brimming with potential. “The opportunities are immense,” she says. “Our goal is clear: to establish this region as the pre-eminent destination for investment and growth.”

The Middle East’s real estate market is evolving at a rapid pace, and Sarah is leading the charge to ensure it continues on its upward trajectory. “The regulatory reforms we’ve seen so far are just the beginning,” she notes. “I believe we will continue to see a shift towards more transparent, business-friendly regulations designed to attract international investors.”

As one of the pioneers in the branded residence space, Sarah is particularly enthusiastic about this emerging sector. Currently, there are 740 completed branded residences worldwide, with a further 790 anticipated by 2031 across 100 countries. These developments are revolutionizing real estate by offering higher returns for both owners and operators. In 2024 alone, Sarah together with Stephen Kelly, Middle East Co-Head of Real Estate and Hospitality led the Greenberg Traurig team advising on over 30 such transactions in the Middle East. With the institutional support of a global network of over 700 real estate lawyers whose expertise and resources they draw upon for cross-border transactions, Greenberg Traurig are reinforcing their position as leaders in this market.

Sarah’s belief in shaping the future through innovation drives her strategy. “It’s not just about creating spaces to live and work; it’s about creating communities, shaping experiences, and building the future of the region.”

“GT’s success in the region mirrors the growth trajectory of Dubai and Saudi Arabia. We’re here not just for today, but for the future.”

Greenberg Traurig’s Regional Success: A Strategic Vision for Growth

Greenberg Traurig (GT) has grown exponentially in the Middle East since opening its UAE and Saudi Arabia offices in 2023. With an ambitious growth strategy and a clear commitment to long-term investment in the region, the firm has expanded its local presence to 40 attorneys and staff in under two years. This remarkable growth mirrors the expansion of the region itself, particularly in Dubai and Saudi Arabia, where the demand for legal expertise is rising along with the pace of development.

“We’re not just here to be a temporary presence,” Sarah asserts. “We’re here for the long term. Our team has deep roots in the region, and that’s what sets us apart.”

GT’s approach to growth is based on a holistic strategy, expanding beyond real estate into other key practice areas, including TMT, corporate, capital markets, and disputes. This broad approach enables the firm to offer comprehensive, cross-disciplinary services that set them apart in an increasingly complex market.

The firm’s commitment to excellence is not just a talking point—it’s been proven with accolades like the 2024 Oath UAE Law Firm of the Year and the LexisNexis Middle East Employee Well-Being Award. And as Sarah and her team look to the future, the firm is already shortlisted for several prestigious 2025 awards, including the Chambers Real Estate Team of the Year and Breakthrough Law Firm of the Year. “Our success is a reflection of the ambition and drive of the Middle East itself,” Sarah says.

Embracing Change: The Technological Revolution in Real Estate

As the real estate sector in the Middle East evolves, technology is playing a central role in its transformation. “We’re seeing a real shift in how the real estate market operates,” Sarah says. “From PropTech to AI, technology is revolutionizing the industry, and the region is embracing it like no other.”

In the UAE, Sarah points out that AI innovation is not just a trend but a core part of the country’s strategy for the future. The adoption of artificial intelligence, robotics, and augmented reality is already having a profound impact on the construction industry. “AI is transforming everything from how buildings are designed to how they are managed,” she says. “This is just the beginning, and it’s incredibly exciting to be part of this transformation.”

Greenberg Traurig itself is leading by example, having integrated generative AI into its legal processes. “Across our offices in Dubai and Riyadh we have embraced GT’s global rollout of  AI-assisted research, drafting, and document review tools,” Sarah explains. “This investment in technology not only enhances our efficiency but also positions us as pioneers in the region.”

The rise of PropTech, including virtual property tours and digital property management tools, is also making the real estate market more accessible and efficient. These tools are enabling faster transactions and better client experiences, all while offering new opportunities for global investors.

“Technology is revolutionizing the real estate market in the region. From AI to PropTech, the opportunities are endless, and we’re helping clients embrace these innovations.”

Sustainability: Building a Greener Future

Sustainability is a key priority for both Greenberg Traurig and the Middle East at large. In a region known for its ambitious projects, the push for sustainable development is more than just a trend—it’s an essential part of the region’s future.

“At Greenberg Traurig, we take sustainability seriously,” Sarah says. “We work closely with clients to ensure their projects meet the highest environmental standards. From advising on net-zero buildings to supporting climate-positive initiatives, we’re committed to helping our clients navigate the complexities of sustainable development.”

The firm’s focus on sustainability extends to its own operations. Greenberg Traurig has implemented policies to reduce its environmental impact, with energy-efficient office designs and eco-friendly practices across all its offices. “We live our values,” Sarah asserts. “Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of our work.”

The region itself is setting ambitious sustainability goals. Dubai’s Sustainable City, the first operational sustainable development in the Middle East, serves as a model for future projects. “Sustainability is driving the evolution of real estate in the region,” Sarah says. “It’s no longer optional—it’s a necessity.”

The Middle East: A Unique Market Full of Opportunities

The Middle East’s real estate market is unlike any other in the world. Government involvement in major developments, including smart cities and tourism hubs, has created a unique dynamic. While many other regions rely primarily on private sector initiatives, the Middle East’s government-driven projects have spurred rapid growth and set the stage for even more ambitious developments.

“The scale and speed of development here are extraordinary,” Sarah notes. “But it’s not just about building buildings. It’s about creating sustainable, vibrant communities that offer opportunities for people to live, work, and thrive.”

However, the demand for infrastructure, schools, hospitals, homes, and offices is outpacing supply, presenting a significant challenge for developers. With more people relocating to the region from all over the world, the need for smart, sustainable developments is greater than ever.

Leading the Charge: Innovation, Diversity, and Long-Term Vision

As Sarah looks to the future, she emphasizes that Greenberg Traurig is more than just a law firm—it’s a partner to its clients throughout their entire journey. “We’re not just focused on closing a deal and moving on,” she says. “We’re here to guide our clients through every step of their journey, helping them navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.”

The firm’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is another key factor in its success. Sarah, who co-manages the UAE office and co-leads the real estate and hospitality team, is proud of the firm’s strong track record in gender equality. “We have 21 female managing partners at Greenberg Traurig,” she says. “And we’re proud to support women like Marwa Al-Siyabi, a rising star in our KSA office.”

As Greenberg Traurig continues to grow and evolve, Sarah and her team remain committed to leading the real estate sector into a new era—one that is defined by innovation, sustainability, and lasting partnerships.

In a region teeming with opportunity, Sarah Mahood’s leadership and Greenberg Traurig’s vision are shaping the future of the Middle East’s real estate market. With a focus on sustainability, technological innovation, and long-term growth, the firm is poised to remain at the cutting edge of the industry for years to come.

“It’s not just about creating spaces to live and work; it’s about creating communities, shaping experiences, and building the future of the region.”