The Evolving Gulf Buyer: Why GCC Demand for UK Homes Is Becoming More Strategic

NOMO The Evolving Gulf Buyer Jan 2026

 

Please find attached our latest view on the Gulf Buyer property market in to the UK, we've used data from property search portal Rightmove and the report captures the latest trends shaping Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)[1] investment in UK residential property into 2026.

 

Our research finds that over the past 12 months:

London remains the most attractive market for GCC buyers due to its reputation as a secure international investment hub, accounting for 23% of GCC demand.

·       The popularity of the UK’s regions continues to grow, with Scotland (19%) and the North West (18%) emerging as clear favourites for Gulf residents due to lower value entry points and stronger yields.

·      Demand for houses has increased by 6%, along with a 5% increase in the second stepper segment, indicating that Gulf buyers continue to view the UK as a long-term destination to relocate to for lifestyle purposes.

·      Demand from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia remains similar to 2024, while interest from Qatar increased by 2% year on year. These three countries accounted for 86% of all GCC-based inquiries (to September).

Our research "The Evolving Gulf Buyer: Why GCC Demand for UK Homes is Becoming More Strategic", examines the reasons why Gulf buyers continue to be drawn to the UK property market as we enter 2026.

Analysis reveals that global economic volatility has underscored the appeal of the UK’s longstanding political stability. For GCC clients, that assurance has helped sustain consistent investment volumes across the UK residential market in 2025, particularly within the sub-£2 million segment.

Through interviews with UK based brokers as part of the research, We found that GCC buy-to-let investors have increasingly turned to limited companies – particularly Special Purpose Vehicles – when making purchases. This is reflective of a more professional, planning led approach among Gulf residents with SPVs offering a range of advantages, including greater tax efficiency, improved estate planning and a stronger UK financial footprint.