Zeina Khoury: Pioneering Women in Real Estate and Fashion
As of 2025, Zeina Khoury stands as a multifaceted entrepreneur successfully navigating both the real estate market and the fashion industry. The founder and President of Zed Capital Real Estate, Khoury balances her professional endeavors with family life, expressing a desire to return home to her children before their bedtime. She states, “I would like to come home before my kids’ bedtime, at least half an hour before,” highlighting the importance of family amidst her demanding career.
A Resilient Foundation
Khoury attributes her strong work ethic to her upbringing in Lebanon, where value was placed on education and personal confidence. Juggling numerous part-time jobs through university, including modeling and radio presenting, she learned to seize opportunities as they arose. “When an opportunity knocks, I take it,” she notes, emphasizing her proactive approach to career development.
From Lebanon to Dubai: Career Evolution
Relocating to Dubai in 2006 due to political instability in Lebanon, Khoury initially faced setbacks in securing a real estate position. However, she remained adaptable, stating, “when another opportunity presented itself, I did whatever was needed to get it.” Today, she leads a successful real estate agency with 48 employees, overseeing projects valued at over AED3 billion and experiencing an impressive AED50 million in revenue growth during 2024.
The Vision Behind Zed Capital
Zed Capital Real Estate assists clients in navigating the UAE’s real estate market, offering a comprehensive suite of services from market research to project development. Khoury highlighted their strategic collaborations with developers like Amwaj Development and Vantage Ventures, successfully launching significant projects like Viera Residences in Dubai Production City. She states, “If someone has a plot of land or wants to enter into the real estate development scene in the UAE, we help find them a plot that is suitable.”
Client Relationships and Long-Term Growth
Khoury measures her success by her ability to cultivate long-term client relationships, boasting a 70%-80% client retention rate. She reflects on the transformative journey of her clients, one of whom upgraded from a small studio purchase in 2007 to a villa valued at AED50 million years later. “In real estate, you have to think long term,” she asserts.
Challenges and Opportunities in Real Estate
Despite the lucrative potential of the real estate sector, Khoury acknowledges the challenges faced by newcomers, particularly those working on commission without guaranteed income. “Real estate is not for everybody,” she cautions, recognizing the stress associated with uncertainty, especially for those just starting out.
Adapting During Crisis
Khoury demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic by investing in her education and strengthening her online presence. This proactive approach led her to the casting of Netflix’s reality show, “Dubai Bling,” which has garnered significant attention, pulling in 2.4 million views and 18.6 million hours watched in its premiere week of Season 3. She notes the show’s potential impact on her career, saying, “Your main asset is your credibility.”
Entrepreneurial Spirit and Social Responsibility
In addition to her real estate successes, Khoury founded a fashion startup, “I Am The Company,” driven by a personal motivation to be recognized for her contributions. “Real estate companies are worth the people who are in them,” she explains. This venture also aims to support women’s education, with a portion of proceeds dedicated to this cause. “I truly love the message behind it,” she adds, celebrating the positive feedback from women wearing her brand.
Conclusion
Zeina Khoury exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resilience in her approach to business, creating opportunities not only for herself but also for women in her community. Her journey underscores the importance of adaptability, strong client relationships, and a commitment to social causes, setting a strong precedent for future generations in entrepreneurship.