Episode #9: International eXpansion Podcast | Interview with Dounia Fadi

International eXpansion with Glenn Sanford

Welcome to the International eXpansion Podcast!

In this episode of the International eXpansion Podcast, Glenn Sanford, Founder of eXp Realty, sits down with Dounia Fadi, Managing Director of eXp Dubai and a 20-year real estate veteran. Dounia shares how she transitioned from leading major brokerages in the UAE to launching eXp Dubai—bringing a disruptive, cloud-based model to one of the world’s most competitive luxury markets.

Dounia discusses how eXp’s agent-centric structure and global reach allowed her to scale quickly, closing Dubai’s first $10.3M eXp transaction and supporting agents from around the world. She unpacks the cultural shift agents experience when given freedom, ownership, and access to world-class tools and training—sparking creativity and entrepreneurial thinking across her team.

Today, Dounia is focused on growing a high-performing, globally diverse network in the Middle East while leading with long-term vision, integrity, and deep industry insight. She credits eXp’s platform for redefining what’s possible in Dubai real estate—and empowering agents to think beyond borders.

Why Watch?

🌍 Top Leaders & Agents: Insights from international real estate experts.
✅ Global Strategies: Learn how to navigate diverse markets.
🌟 Success Stories: Discover real-life wins and growth journeys.
📈 Trends & Opportunities: Explore what’s shaping real estate globally.
🎙️ Your inside look at global real estate success.

About the International eXpansion Podcast with Glenn Sanford
Join Glenn Sanford, CEO and Founder of eXp Realty, as he explores the dynamic world of international real estate. Each episode features exclusive interviews with market leaders and top-producing agents from around the globe, diving into their unique challenges, successes, and strategies for thriving in diverse markets. Gain an insider’s perspective on international trends, growth opportunities, and how innovative approaches are shaping the future of real estate.

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⏱️Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Meet Dounia Fadi

00:37 From Franchise to eXp: A Career Pivot in 2022

02:01 Why Dounia Chose Innovation Over Independence

03:24 Starting Young: A 20-Year Journey in Dubai Real Estate

04:54 Launching eXp Dubai and Closing the First $10.3M Deal

05:50 Breaking Records and Scaling Big in Luxury Real Estate

06:49 Challenges of Introducing a New Model to the Middle East

08:45 Educating the Market and Earning Trust

09:42 What Attracts Agents to eXp Dubai

10:36 High Splits, Freedom, and Entrepreneurial Mindset

12:27 Building a Culture of Ownership and Leadership

13:54 Serving Local and International Clients Through Global Referrals

15:29 Navigating Dubai’s Highly Regulated Real Estate Industry

17:54 Decision-Making with Long-Term Vision

20:07 Advice for Agents Looking to Expand into Dubai

23:34 Final Thoughts: Growth, Strategy, and Making an Impact

💬 Join the conversation: We love hearing from you! Leave your comments below, and let us know what topics you want to hear about or questions you have for our guests. Your feedback makes our show even better!

📢 Share with your network: If you find our episodes valuable, please share them with your colleagues and friends in the real estate industry. Let's grow and learn together!

🌐 Follow eXp Realty on social media:

• Facebook: facebook.com/expintl
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/exp-realty-international/
• Instagram: @exp.intl
• Website: https://exprealty.international/
• International HQ: exp.world/international

🌐 Follow our host on social media:

• Instagram: @glenndsanford

🌐 Follow our guest on social media:

• Instagram: @askdounia

Thank you for tuning in to the International eXpansion Podcast! See you in two weeks!