In the bustling metropolis of Dubai, where architectural marvels pierce the sky and the real estate market thrives, one woman’s remarkable journey stands out. Nadia Cortés, originally from Chihuahua, Mexico, has seamlessly transitioned from soaring the skies as an Emirates flight attendant to navigating the dynamic world of Dubai’s real estate. Her story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.
A Dream Takes Flight
In 2010, Nadia embarked on a journey that many only dream of. Leaving her hometown, she joined Emirates Airlines as an air hostess, a role that allowed her to travel the world and experience diverse cultures. Her dedication and exemplary service led to her selection to fly the prestigious Airbus 380, and over nine years, she ascended to the position of Cabin Supervisor, leading teams and ensuring the highest standards of service. This period not only honed her interpersonal skills but also instilled in her a deep appreciation for excellence and professionalism.
Grounding Her Ambitions in Real Estate
After nearly a decade in the aviation industry, Nadia sought new challenges. Her fascination with Dubai’s rapid development and architectural grandeur drew her to the real estate sector. In 2019, she made a bold career shift, joining Coldwell Banker as a property consultant. Fluent in English, French, Spanish, and Italian, Nadia quickly established herself in the market. She initially specialized in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), later shifting her focus to Palm Jumeirah, where she sold one of the biggest transactions in Blue Waters. Today, she specializes in Town Square, an area she not only works in but also calls home—a decision driven by her commitment to sustainability, minimizing commute time, and staying close to nature and her beloved camels.
Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry
The real estate landscape in Dubai, much like in many parts of the world, has been predominantly male-dominated. Women in this field often face stereotypes and biases that challenge their credibility and competence. Nadia’s journey was no exception. She recalls a particularly challenging negotiation involving a prime plot on Palm Jumeirah with a major developer. The six-month-long negotiation process was intense, with Nadia often being the only woman in the room and facing language barriers, as she didn’t speak Arabic.
“There were moments when I felt like crying,” she admits. However, her perseverance paid off, and she successfully closed the deal, earning a higher commission than initially agreed upon. “The relationships I built during that deal remain with me, and it’s one of those sales that truly shaped my career,” she reflects.
Championing Female Empowerment
Nadia’s experiences fueled her passion for empowering other women in the industry. She became one of nine women selected for the UAE’s SheForShe mentorship program, an initiative by Property Finder aimed at supporting female professionals in real estate. The program pairs mentees with top female industry leaders, offering guidance, skills development workshops, and networking opportunities over six months. Through this platform, Nadia hopes to drive systemic changes and inspire more women to break barriers in the real estate sector.
Building “TheRealtorDubai Real Estate Brokerage” Firm
In 2024, combining her industry insights and entrepreneurial spirit, Nadia founded TheRealtorDubai Real Estate Brokerage, a firm dedicated to professionalism and client-centric service. Located at Aspin Commercial Tower, the firm quickly gained a reputation for excellence. Clients have lauded Nadia for her dedication, with one noting:
“Nadia is very kind, professional, and knowledgeable. She helped me find a suitable property for investment in a short period. I will definitely seek her advice in the future!”
Balancing Passions: Animals and Sports
Beyond her professional endeavors, Nadia is a fervent animal lover and sports enthusiast. Her social media platforms often showcase her involvement in various animal welfare initiatives and sporting events. This balance between work and personal passions not only enriches her life but also resonates with many who follow her journey, drawing inspiration from her multifaceted lifestyle.
Navigating the Competitive Dubai Real Estate Market
Dubai’s real estate market is known for its competitiveness, with over 35,000 agents vying for success. Operating on a commission-based model without fixed salaries, agents invest significant time and resources to close deals. The challenges are immense, but for those like Nadia, the rewards are commensurate with the effort. Her story underscores the importance of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment in such a demanding environment.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Nadia envisions expanding TheRealtorDubai Real Estate Brokerage into a leading name in the UAE’s real estate sector. She aims to foster a culture of inclusivity, mentorship, and excellence within her firm, providing a platform for aspiring real estate professionals, especially women, to thrive. Her journey from the skies to the skyscrapers of Dubai serves as a beacon of inspiration, illustrating that with passion and perseverance, one can navigate any turbulence and soar to new heights.
Conclusion
Nadia Cortés’ story is a compelling narrative of transformation, resilience, and empowerment. Her journey from a flight attendant to a successful real estate entrepreneur in Dubai encapsulates the essence of pursuing one’s passions against all odds. Through her experiences, she not only carved a niche for herself in a competitive industry but also paved the way for other women to follow. In a city that epitomizes ambition and grandeur, Nadia’s story reminds us that the sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning. Do follow her on Instagram.
