Santa-Maria Kourri’s story is one of grit, vision, and extraordinary transformation. Born to a multicultural family with Russian and Greek-Cypriot roots, she grew up in a world full of potential but also traditional expectations. After earning a degree in psychology, many expected her to take a conventional career path. Instead, at 22, Santa-Maria made a bold decision she moved to Dubai with just one dream: to build her own empire.
Starting out with a humble job at the iconic Burj Al Arab Hotel, earning only AED 2,000 a month as a receptionist, she was surrounded by luxury every day. Santa-Maria didn’t let the low salary discourage her. Instead, she absorbed everything, watching how the elite lived and operated. She didn’t just serve VIP guests; she studied their lifestyle and mindset, knowing that one day, she would join their ranks not as a bystander, but as a leading figure.
From Receptionist to Real Estate Rookie
Without any background in property, Santa-Maria took a leap of faith into Dubai’s competitive real estate market. This industry is known for its fierce competition and high barriers to entry, especially for young women new to the field. She faced rejection and skepticism but stayed determined. Building her client network from zero, she put in countless hours learning market trends, negotiating deals, and winning trust.
Her dedication paid off. Within a few years, she was closing deals that most new agents could only dream about. She became known for her professionalism, keen market insight, and ability to connect with high-net-worth individuals.
Record-Breaking Deals and Elite Clientele
Now, a decade later, Santa-Maria is a powerhouse in Dubai’s luxury property world. Her portfolio includes some of the most impressive sales in the city. Among her landmark deals are the sale of three entire floors in Emaar’s Act One | Act Two Towers for AED 75 million, an AED 50 million penthouse at Six Senses Residences on Palm Jumeirah, and multiple Amalfi Townhouses in Jumeirah Bay Island that brought her clients over 400% capital growth.
Her clients read like a who’s who of wealth and influence members of royal families, Forbes-listed entrepreneurs, and world-renowned athletes trust her expertise. Many have seen their investments double or even triple in value, thanks to Santa-Maria’s savvy advice and market foresight.
More Than a Broker: Investor and Influencer
Santa-Maria doesn’t just broker deals she invests in properties herself. She buys, renovates, and flips luxury homes, adding millions to her own portfolio. Her personal brand has also exploded online. Through Instagram, YouTube, and her podcast “Dubai Sand to Gold,” she shares insider tips, market insights, and motivational stories to inspire investors worldwide.
Her content combines lifestyle, business acumen, and a glimpse into the luxury real estate world, making her one of the most followed property influencers in the UAE. She uses this platform not only to build her brand but to educate aspiring investors and entrepreneurs, showing them the steps to financial freedom.
Launching SANTÉ Properties: A New Chapter
In 2025, celebrating ten years in the real estate game, Santa-Maria launched her own boutique agency, SANTÉ Properties. The company specializes in high-end beachfront developments and prime properties worth AED 5 million and above across the UAE. Her goal is simple yet ambitious: to connect the world’s wealthiest investors with Dubai’s most exclusive real estate opportunities.
SANTÉ Properties reflects her refined taste and deep market knowledge. It’s not just about buying and selling; it’s about creating lasting value for clients and fostering trust through transparency and personalized service.
A Story of Balance and Empowerment
Santa-Maria’s success is about more than money. It’s about breaking stereotypes and blending femininity with fierce independence. She embodies a new kind of leadership elegant yet ambitious, warm yet competitive. She’s proof that a woman can thrive in a male-dominated industry without losing her identity.
Her journey from a modest AED 2,000 salary to multi-million-dirham deals is inspiring proof that with resilience, vision, and hard work, anyone can rise to the top.
What’s Next for Santa-Maria?
While she’s achieved so much, Santa-Maria is far from done. She continues to expand her portfolio, explore new investment opportunities, and inspire others to follow their dreams. For her, every deal is not just a business success but a step towards greater influence and impact in Dubai’s booming real estate scene.
Her story is a beacon for anyone who dares to dream big and work relentlessly for their vision showing that no matter where you start, the sky is the limit.
Do follow her on Instagram
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