Two and a half years ago, I had never been to the Middle East. I was born and raised in the United States, a proud first-generation Arab American, but like many others, I had preconceived notions about the region, especially Dubai.
At the urging of a close friend who had built a successful career in Dubai as a project manager with one of the city’s top-tier developers, I finally visited. What happened on that trip changed the trajectory of my life.
By my second day in Dubai, something clicked. I felt more connected, more inspired, and more certain than I had in years. I didn’t know what my path would look like, but I knew I wanted to be part of what was happening in this city of the future.
Up until then, real estate wasn’t even on my radar. I had spent 17 years leading a public relations firm, GG Benitez Public Relations, Incl, working with international brands. Before that, I launched a fashion line, Tuni&G, that sold in Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. And even before that, I worked in pharmaceutical sales after earning a degree in economics from the University of California, San Diego. I was an entrepreneur, but not a Realtor.
Dubai changed that.
I realized real estate could be my bridge. It would allow me to explore the Middle East more deeply, while connecting my world in the U.S. with the opportunities unfolding in Dubai. I wanted to become a “connect,” someone who brings clarity and access to global investors who are curious about, but uncertain of, Dubai’s potential.
That journey began with my first visit to the International Property Show (IPS) in Dubai as an attendee. I was new to the industry, just starting to get licensed and certified, and learning how to align with developers and investors. Fast forward to my second year at IPS, and I was invited to speak on stage. By the next year, I was hosting live podcast interviews at the IPS Congress through my show, The Dubai Connect Podcast, a top-ranked show now available on YouTube, Apple, and Spotify.
At the IPS 2024 edition, I had the honor of interviewing some of the region’s most influential voices, including Mohamed Kaswani of Property Finder, Nassira Sekkay of Million Dollar Listing UAE, and UAE-based attorney Nadia Al Ameri. I also participated in multiple panels focused on women in leadership, women in real estate, and global investor trends.
What started as curiosity has become a full-fledged mission. I now guide U.S., Canadian, and European investors step-by-step through the Dubai real estate process, from understanding market trends and regulations to securing the best off-plan opportunities for ROI and long-term value.
Today, I am a Licensed Realtor® in California (under Realty Executives Dillon), a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS®) through the National Association of Realtors, and RERA-licensed in Dubai. I run GG Benitez International, with offices in Dubai, San Diego, California, and in Marbella, Spain.
While I serve clients around the world, my passion is Dubai. I believe it is not only a leading global real estate market, but also a city that offers unique safety, diversity, innovation, and vision. I see Dubai as a place where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and investors can build generational wealth.
My mission now is to demystify Dubai, especially for North American investors. I want to break the myths, answer the tough questions, and be a trusted resource for those who are intrigued but hesitant.
One of the most meaningful moments in my journey came when I had the opportunity to approach His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the visionary behind Dubai’s transformation. I showed him my Instagram Reel (@ggbenitezinternational) showcasing one of my billboards in the city that simply read: Invest in Dubai matched to his voice in the the reel about wanting Dubai to be the “Best City in the World.". He gave me a pat on the back. That moment reminded me that this path is much bigger than me. It's about being part of something truly global.
To those reading this who are just beginning to explore Dubai real estate, I invite you to follow the journey.
Tune into The Dubai Connect Podcast on YouTube, Apple, or Spotify.
Visit my site at GGBenitezInternational.com.
And if you’re an agent or investor who wants to learn more, let’s connect.
This is only the beginning. Dubai is calling, and I’m here to help you answer.