Early Life and Influences
Dounia Fadi’s story begins in the nurturing embrace of her grandmother, whose disciplined and organized nature left an indelible mark on her. Growing up under her grandmother’s guidance, Dounia absorbed values that would later become the bedrock of her personal and professional life. “Being raised by my grandma and remembering how organized and disciplined she was despite her old age and minimum education, instilled great values and characteristics in me since early childhood,” she reflects. These early lessons in tenacity and perseverance have been instrumental in shaping her approach to challenges and opportunities alike.
Venturing into Real Estate
The early 2000s marked a transformative period for Dubai’s real estate landscape. The announcement of the freehold law opened new avenues for property ownership, leading to a surge in demand. Recognizing the potential, Dounia made a pivotal decision in 2005 to embark on a career in real estate. “It made total sense to enter the real estate sector at the time,” she recalls. This move was not just about capitalizing on market trends but also about achieving financial independence—a goal she pursued with unwavering focus.
Balancing Family and Career
While professional achievements are significant, Dounia places immense value on her family. She considers her family her greatest accomplishment, stating, “It gives me great pride that despite having a family and being a hands-on mom, I was and still am able to carry on with building my career.” This dual commitment underscores her belief in the importance of nurturing both personal and professional facets of life. She views raising her children and paving the way for future real estate professionals as parallel responsibilities, each contributing to the betterment of society.
Overcoming Challenges
Dounia’s journey has not been devoid of challenges. However, she perceives obstacles as opportunities for growth. Reflecting on her career, she notes, “There weren’t any major challenges that could deter me from staying focused, but nonetheless, there were times where life would get complicated.” Her approach to adversity is rooted in resilience, viewing each hurdle as a stepping stone to greater opportunities. This mindset has been crucial in navigating the complexities of the real estate industry.
Leadership at eXp Realty Dubai
Currently, Dounia serves as the Managing Director of eXp Realty’s operations in Dubai, a role that aligns with her passion for growth and innovation. eXp Realty, known for its cloud-based platform, expanded into Dubai in December 2022, marking its 24th global market. Since then under Dounia’s leadership, eXp Dubai has grown to over 60 agents. The company’s entry into Dubai reflects its commitment to revolutionizing the real estate industry with its agent-centric model. Dounia’s leadership is pivotal in this expansion, as she brings over 20 years of experience in Dubai’s real estate sector. Her vision is to grow eXp Realty’s footprint in the region, fostering an environment where agents can thrive.
Guiding Principles and Advice
Integrity stands at the core of Dounia’s professional philosophy. She advises aspiring professionals to “never cut corners or compromise on your integrity and on who you are just to fit in.” Authenticity, in her view, paves the way for genuine growth and success. By staying true to oneself, colleagues, and customers, individuals can carve out spaces where they can flourish. This principle has not only guided her career but also serves as a beacon for those she mentors.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Dounia’s journey is a testament to what is possible with dedication and resilience. She aspires to be a catalyst for others, saying, “I want to be the reason someone takes a step forward and creates or does something good in and for their industry.” Through her story, she hopes to inspire others to pursue their passions and contribute positively to their fields. Her presence on platforms like Instagram and TikTok (@askdounia) allows her to share insights and experiences, further extending her influence.
Reflections and Future Aspirations
Looking back, Dounia expresses gratitude for her journey, acknowledging the kindness of Allah in her endeavors. While she is satisfied with her path, she notes a technical aspect she would have approached differently: implementing a personal CRM system from the outset of her career. Such a system would have streamlined client interactions and business processes. Nevertheless, she embraces the advancements in technology today, recognizing how AI-backed systems have made processes faster and more efficient.
Conclusion
Dounia Fadi’s narrative is one of resilience, integrity, and visionary leadership. From her grandmother’s teachings to her current role at eXp Realty Dubai, she exemplifies how foundational values can drive professional excellence. Her story serves as an inspiration, illustrating that with perseverance and authenticity, one can navigate and thrive in dynamic industries. As she continues to lead and innovate, Dounia remains committed to empowering others, ensuring that her journey lights the path for future generations in real estate and beyond.
Do follow her on Instagram.
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