Natalie Williams: From New Zealand to Dubai Real Estate Visionary
Kiwi entrepreneur Natalie Williams is turning heads with her ambitious venture in Dubai’s lucrative real estate market. When she declared her intention to establish an agency selling residential developments to investors, many dismissively labeled her "crazy." Undeterred, Williams launched Wealth Creators, aiming to empower investors globally—especially from New Zealand—to capitalize on the promising property scene in the bustling emirate.
A Rich Background
Before diving into real estate, Williams built her career in communications, branding, and public relations. With a degree in communications and a major in PR, she successfully ran her own marketing and event planning agency. Additionally, she dedicated herself to community work, notably as a youth pastor and the founder of a suicide prevention program called "I’m Unbreakable," which utilized hip-hop culture to connect with and support at-risk youth.
Having experienced personal struggles, including caregiving for her father during his cancer battle and her subsequent journey through grief and depression, Williams emerged as a beacon of hope. She sought to help others find purpose in life, a theme that echoes through her entrepreneurial spirit.
The Impact of COVID-19
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented a seismic shift in Williams’ career trajectory. Her agency, which thrived before the pandemic, lost all clients virtually overnight as lockdowns took effect. Faced with this adversity, she pivoted to business coaching, leveraging her Tony Robbins training to aid others in navigating the post-pandemic landscape.
Despite the challenges, supportive family members in property and sales encouraged her to explore real estate. After obtaining her real estate license with Harcourts Cooper & Co. and benefiting from mentorship, Williams experienced her "lightbulb moment" while working on a significant listing—Amaia development on Auckland’s North Shore.
Setting Sights on Dubai
With the pandemic throwing obstacles in her path, Williams secured a contract with the government to assist businesses in recovery through effective marketing strategies. During this period, she gained invaluable experience by working with a prominent Australasian company specializing in property investment. Responsible for numerous developers in New Zealand, she nurtured a growing passion for real estate.
As Williams assessed the global landscape, she aimed to establish an agency that was not confined to New Zealand. Her exploration led her to meet influential developers in the U.S., exposing her to significant networking opportunities. Yet it was Dubai that captured her imagination for its unmatched potential in real estate investment.
Why Choose Dubai?
Dubai presents a stark contrast to New Zealand’s real estate market. While property in New Zealand may take around 15 years to double in value, in Dubai, savvy investors can see returns in as little as three years. The emirate boasts exceptional payment plans, innovative developments, and a rapidly growing population, fostering an enticing environment for real estate investment.
Moreover, Williams commends Dubai’s government for its forward-thinking policies, which encourage foreign investment and aim to position the emirate as one of the world’s most livable cities. Her meticulous research led her to top developers, some with impressive records including the construction of the Burj Khalifa, ensuring that investments would be secure and lucrative.
Diverse Investor Base
At Wealth Creators, Williams collaborates with an eclectic array of investors. Her clients include seasoned investors keen on diversifying their portfolios, as well as everyday individuals who have built equity in their homes and are seeking faster returns for their retirement funds. For many, the allure of Dubai’s property market represents an opportunity to expedite wealth creation.
Overcoming Unique Challenges
Launching a business in Dubai is no small feat, especially as a female entrepreneur and a foreigner. Williams navigated numerous bureaucratic hurdles and cultural nuances, acknowledging that perceptions could sometimes be steeped in stereotypes. Yet, she remains resolute in her mission.
Williams is driven by the belief that her life experiences have uniquely prepared her for this endeavor. Facing skepticism from many who caution her against dreaming big, she chooses to lean into her ambitions and advocate for pursuing one’s dreams—an ethos that resonates powerfully in her work.
Work-Life Balance
Even amidst her professional commitments, Williams emphasizes the importance of personal well-being. Passionate about fitness, travel, and cooking, she prioritizes self-care while also engaging in meaningful conversations on her podcast, "The Hustle." Here, she invites a variety of business leaders and entrepreneurs, sharing insights that enrich both her life and the lives of her listeners.
By transcending conventional paths and embracing possibility, Natalie Williams is not only disrupting the real estate industry, but also inspiring many to follow suit.
