The Broker Who Poached Himself

This week on Keys to the City, Kam uncovers Dylan O’Connor’s unbelievable journey from selling furniture in Liverpool to navigating the high-stakes world of Dubai real estate.

Dylan talks candidly about starting out at another agency, the setbacks that almost pushed him out of the industry, and the game-changing move to Allsopp & Allsopp that turned everything around. From mastering Dubai’s fast-paced market to falling in love with Tilal Al Ghaf, he shares the highs, lows, and lessons no one tells you before coming here.

Don’t miss his unfiltered advice for anyone thinking about packing their bags and starting fresh in Dubai.

Making the Leap: From Liverpool to Dubai

Dylan’s journey started in Liverpool, where he balanced selling furniture with studying for a degree in finance. He had ambitions of becoming an accountant, but the daily routine didn’t satisfy his appetite. Moving to Dubai wasn’t a decision he made overnight, but seeing friends thrive in the city’s real estate scene eventually convinced him to give it a go.

Learning the Ropes

Once in Dubai, Dylan began in the lettings sector for another real estate company here in Dubai. For him, it wasn’t just about getting by in a new city - it was about learning the ins and outs of the property industry. Lettings gave him space to make mistakes, build confidence, and see quick financial returns. More importantly, it allowed him to build connections and gain a solid understanding of Dubai’s varied housing market.

Moving into Sales: Finding His Passion

With experience under his belt, Dylan made the move into sales. This wasn’t just a career change - it was a chance to align his work with his passions and long-term goals. Helping families find their dream homes brought him a real sense of fulfilment. His relationships with clients flourished, paving the way for a successful career in sales.

The Allsopp & Allsopp Experience

Dylan credits much of his success to the people around him at Allsopp & Allsopp. Being part of a supportive, skilled team pushed him to grow and learn every day. The mentorship and camaraderie he found helped him refine his skills and establish himself as a key player in the Tilal Al Ghaf community.

Finding His Niche in Tilal Al Ghaf

In Tilal Al Ghaf, Dylan found his perfect niche. The area’s vibrant community, great amenities, and ongoing development matched his professional ambitions perfectly. He sees strong potential for property value growth, making it a great place for both his clients and himself. For Dylan, Tilal Al Ghaf isn’t just a workplace – it’s a place to build lasting success.

Looking Ahead: Ambition and Goals

Dylan isn’t one to rest on his achievements. With the goal of becoming Senior Sales consultant, he’s always looking to grow his knowledge and skills. At the same time, he keeps personal goals in mind, planning smart property investments and building a solid future.

Advice for Aspiring Real Estate Professionals

For anyone thinking about moving to Dubai, Dylan’s advice is simple: just go for it. The city offers incredible opportunities and a vibrant lifestyle, but success takes patience and learning. Starting in lettings before moving into sales is a smart way to build experience and confidence.

Dylan’s journey from Liverpool to one of Dubai’s top real estate agents shows what’s possible when passion, dedication, and the right environment come together. His story is proof that a move to Dubai can transform your career - and your life. If a career in property is on your radar, Dylan’s path might just inspire your next step.

For the full episode head to our YouTube channel