Industry Insights

The GCC Opportunity: Why UK Advisers Should Be Paying Attention

Nomo explores rising GCC interest in UK property and what a 48% increase in searches could mean for UK finance advisers.

New research from Nomo’s latest Property Pulse report has revealed a significant surge in interest from Gulf investors searching for UK property, creating a growing opportunity for advisers looking to diversify their client base.

Analysis of UK property search data during Q2 2026 found a 48% increase in searches from residents across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC*) compared with the previous quarter. Much of this growth was driven by the UAE, which now accounts for 57% of all GCC searches for UK property.

While prime London locations continue to attract attention, the data also highlights a broader shift in investor behaviour. Areas such as Salford, Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh and even Wigan are seeing increased interest as overseas buyers seek stronger yields, affordability and long-term growth potential.

For advisers, this presents an opportunity to engage with a market that remains highly motivated to invest in UK property. GCC investors are often attracted by the UK’s established legal framework, strong rental demand and the relative stability of the property market. Many are also exploring diversification opportunities beyond their domestic markets and are increasingly prepared to consider regional cities rather than focusing solely on London.

At Nomo, we have seen first-hand how demand from GCC buyers continues to grow. The UAE remains our largest source of property finance applications, reflecting both the size of the British expatriate community and the continued appetite among GCC nationals to build UK property portfolios.

For Fiducia members, understanding the needs of international buyers could unlock valuable referral and advice opportunities. As investor interest continues to expand beyond traditional hotspots, advisers who can identify suitable financing solutions and support overseas clients through the purchasing process will be well placed to benefit from this evolving market.

Source: Nomo Property Pulse Q2 2026, based on analysis of UK property search activity by GCC residents.

Intermediary use only. T&Cs apply. Nomo accounts are not currently available to UK residents. Your customer’s property may be at risk if they do not keep up the payments on their Nomo property. Properties in England, Scotland and Wales.

Nomo by Bank of London and The Middle East plc (“BLME”) is a trading name of BLME. BLME is registered in England and Wales (no. 05897786), authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. BLME’s Financial Services Register number is 464292 and registered office is at 20 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London E14 5HJ.

GCC Countries are: Kuwait, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman

About Nomo

Nomo is the world’s first Sharia’a compliant cross-border bank, built for customers in the GCC who want an international banking experience. Our property finance offering was launched in 2023 for GCC customers looking to invest and safeguard their wealth in British bricks and mortar.

Nomo Property Finance was created to fill a gap in the market for GCC residents wanting to gain a foothold in the UK’s residential property market. Nomo offers residential and buy-to-let finance products to help GCC residents buy or refinance a home in the UK, whilst adhering to Sharia’a finance principles.

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