For upscale UAE development
With a decade of dominance in India’s real estate sector, Pune-based Mantra Properties is stepping onto the international stage by launching Jacob&Co Residences by Mantra, its first overseas luxury development at Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE.
In an exclusive interview in Dubai, Ankit Gupta, Executive Director of Mantra Properties, spoke about why the UAE market was the natural choice for his company, how the partnership with Jacob&Co came to life, and what sets this new venture apart from the many luxury projects already crowding the Emirates skyline.
Gupta stated that the UAE is currently “the land of opportunity.” With Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Marjan Island quickly becoming a magnet for international tourism and development—home to top global brands like Nobu and Nikki Beach—he said it was only logical for Mantra to make its mark there.
“We are a national brand right now with strong footprints in Pune and Mumbai. But we want to go international with something exceptional—branded real estate that the world will recognise,” Gupta said.
Gupta explained that Mantra selected the UAE over other top destinations like Monaco or the US, emphasising the focus on ROI and quality of life.
“The UAE provides a more appealing return on investment—between 7% and 12% for short-term rentals—versus 5% to 6% in the US. This creates a win-win situation for both investors and end-users.”
Track record
The partnership with Swiss luxury watchmaker Jacob&Co did not just come out of thin air.
Gupta revealed that talks began over a potential ultra-luxury project in Pune. That laid the foundation for deeper collaboration, eventually leading to a much bigger vision for Ras Al Khaimah.
“Jacob Arabo [Founder & Chairman of Jacob&Co] himself is deeply involved in every detail—from the design to the brand ethos. It is not just slapping a name on a board,” said Gupta.
On choosing Jacob&Co over more traditional luxury names like Rolex, Gupta did not mince words. “Jacob makes art. Watches like the Astronomia or Bugatti models are not just timepieces—they are masterpieces. That is the kind of artistry we want to bring to this project. Rolex is great, but it is functional luxury. Jacob is experiential.”
Gupta unveiled details about the UAE project—Jacob&Co Residences by Mantra, located in the heart of Al Marjan Island.
“It’s Jacob’s first fully furnished branded residence development on Al Marjan Island,” he confirmed. The interiors will be fitted with handcrafted Italian furniture, part of Jacob Co’s newly launched furniture line. “Every element will be curated to Jacob’s exacting standards,” Gupta added.
The project will feature studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units. While pricing has not been disclosed yet, Gupta teased that the offerings would be attractive both to end-users and investors.
Handover in Q3 2027
Slated for completion in Q3 2027, the AED400 million Jacob&Co Residences by Mantra project will coincide with the opening of the highly anticipated Wynn Resort at Al Marjan Island. Gupta explained that Mantra plans to have the project ready just in time for the influx of millions of new tourists expected to flood the area.
Gupta acknowledged the already saturated luxury market in the UAE but believes Mantra’s offering is different.
“Most branded units in Al Marjan are already sold out. What we are bringing is not just another local name—it is Jacob Co, known globally in markets like Brazil, Mexico, and of course, India,” he noted.
Being based in India is a strength, Gupta said. “Every project we have launched has been delivered 16 months ahead of schedule. We have built a legacy of trust,” he added. Mantra’s internal financial discipline, strong planning, and execution record of accomplishment make it a reliable developer for Indian investors looking abroad, he said.
Mantra has no plans of slowing down. Gupta confirmed upcoming projects in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and more developments in Ras Al Khaimah. “After the Disneyland Abu Dhabi announcement, we see a surge of tourism ahead, and we want to be a part of that story,” he said.
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Entering a new market always comes with challenges, Gupta acknowledged. But Mantra’s strategy has been to stay humble and learn. “We have spent over a year understanding the UAE real estate ecosystem, partnering with the right advisors, and absorbing everything the market has to offer.”
According to Gupta, the investor psyche is different in India and the UAE. Indian projects are more end-user driven, offering 3-4% ROI. But in the UAE, you are looking at double or even triple that. Indian investors are excited by those numbers and trust us to deliver.”
Gupta was all praise for the UAE’s regulatory framework. “The authorities are incredibly business-friendly. Escrow mechanisms are in place to protect buyers, and the entire system promotes transparency.”
He also acknowledged the significant appeal of the UAE Golden Visa. “For Indians, the chance to gain a UAE Golden Visa through property investment is a huge draw. It is about lifestyle, access, and opportunity.”
With meticulous planning, strategic brand collaborations, and a bold international outlook, Mantra Properties is positioning itself as a key player on the global luxury real estate stage. As Gupta aptly summarised, “This is not just a project—it’s a statement.”
Hero image: Ankit Gupta, Executive Director of Mantra Properties. Credit: Arnold Pinto
