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roperty Finder, the leading real‑estate portal in the Middle East and North Africa, has closed a $525 million equity round that will deepen its regional dominance. Permira heads the deal, with Blackstone Growth contributing a substantial share, while General Atlantic, a long‑time shareholder, has reduced its stake but remains a significant minority investor. The transaction gives the trio a combined minority position that signals strong faith in Property Finder’s long‑term prospects and its capacity to scale a digital classifieds platform.

    The investors bring a wealth of experience in growing online marketplaces, having worked together on Adevinta ASA, one of the world’s largest classified‑site operators. Their involvement underscores the confidence that seasoned global players have in Property Finder’s business model and execution.

    Property Finder has earned a reputation for a user‑centric experience, offering a vast inventory of listings powered by advanced technology and AI tools that streamline buying, selling and renting. The portal’s popularity has made it the preferred choice for millions of consumers across the MENA region, with the United Arab Emirates as its most active market. The UAE’s real‑estate sector, valued at roughly $160 billion in 2024, is expected to grow about 13 % over the next five years, creating ample upside for platforms that can serve a digitally savvy, mobile‑first audience.

    The new capital will accelerate Property Finder’s growth strategy, enabling expansion into additional markets and the deepening of its technology stack. Access to Permira and Blackstone’s global networks and operational expertise positions the company to scale efficiently and seize emerging opportunities across the region. The deal also highlights the growing importance of digital transformation in real‑estate, as buyers, sellers and industry stakeholders demand more efficient, transparent and data‑driven solutions.

    The transaction is subject to customary approvals. J.P. Morgan served as the sole placement agent for Property Finder and General Atlantic. Moelis & Company advised Property Finder financially, while Axis Arbor Partners handled debt advisory. Cooley represented Michael Lahyani legally. Citigroup Global Markets Limited advised Permira, with Clifford Chance as its legal counsel. Weil, Gotshal & Manges advised General Atlantic, and Dechert advised Blackstone.

    **Key statements**

    Michael Lahyani, CEO and Founder, said: “This partnership marks a pivotal moment for Property Finder. With Permira, Blackstone and General Atlantic on board, we are accelerating our mission to transform real‑estate across the region through technology, AI and a leading property platform. The investment is a clear vote of confidence in our company, the UAE and the vast opportunities ahead. I thank our customers, partners, regulators and the dedicated Property Finder team for fueling our growth.”

    David Erlong, Partner and Global Co‑Head of Consumer at Permira, added: “We are thrilled to partner with a market leader in one of the most dynamic property markets. This investment builds on our track record of backing digital platforms with strong network effects and deep consumer engagement. Property Finder’s scale, technology and brand trust make it a powerful vehicle to capture long‑term growth as the MENA real‑estate sector digitises.”

    Robert Hou, Vice President at Permira, noted: “We support Property Finder’s management team because of the sustainable, structural drivers behind its growth, and we will bring global best practices to help the company expand across the MENA region.”

    Paul Morrissey, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone Growth, said: “We are excited to partner with a clear market leader that has a strong track record of innovation in the MENA property sector. This investment reflects our confidence in the company’s growth potential and our commitment, alongside Permira and General Atlantic, to make property search and transactions more seamless for consumers and partners alike. It also underscores Blackstone’s long‑term conviction to invest in high‑quality businesses across the region.”

    Chris Caulkin, Managing Director and Head of Technology for General Atlantic in EMEA, commented: “We are proud to have supported Property Finder for over six years, helping it become a leader in the MENA classified property marketplace. Today’s transaction allows us to realise part of the value created while remaining strongly invested in its future. Property Finder is well positioned to continue its growth trajectory, and we look forward to partnering with Permira and Blackstone to unlock the next phase of expansion.”