Emerging Markets Property Group (EMPG), a Dubai-based online classifieds operator, has undergone a rebranding and is now known as Dubizzle Group. The rebranding comes nearly three years after the merger of online portals Bayut and Dubizzle, and it reflects the strong popularity and recognition of the Dubizzle brand in the markets it serves.
Despite the rebranding, the corporate structure of the group will remain unchanged. The newly launched website features Imran Ali Khan, Zeeshan Ali Khan, and Haider Ali Khan, the three brothers, as joint CEOs of the organization. This continuity ensures a smooth transition and allows the group to build upon the success and reputation of both Dubizzle and Bayut.
Dubizzle, originally founded in 2006, started as a classifieds website. Bayut, on the other hand, was the Dubai-based portal of the larger Emerging Markets Property Group (EMPG), which also includes other online property portals like Zameen in Pakistan and Lamudi in Indonesia.
The merger of Dubizzle and Bayut took place in 2020, propelling the company to achieve unicorn status with a valuation of over $1 billion. This significant milestone highlights the strong growth and market presence of the combined entity. To further support its expansion plans, EMPG successfully raised $200 million in late 2022, indicating investor confidence in its business model and potential.
Moreover, the company has hinted at a future initial public offering (IPO), suggesting its intention to go public and offer shares to the public market. This strategic move could provide EMPG with additional capital and fuel its growth trajectory, allowing it to tap into new opportunities and expand its reach in the online classifieds and property markets.
The rebranding to Dubizzle Group signifies a consolidation of the company's brands and a unified approach to delivering its services across various markets. With the experienced leadership of the Khan brothers and its strong financial backing, the group is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory, drive innovation, and maintain its position as a leader in the online classifieds and property sector.
In conclusion, Dubai-based online classifieds operator EMPG has rebranded itself as Dubizzle Group, highlighting the strong brand recognition of Dubizzle. Following the merger of Dubizzle and Bayut, the company achieved unicorn status and secured significant funding. The future potential of an IPO indicates further growth prospects for the group. With a unified corporate structure and strong leadership, Dubizzle Group is set to thrive in the competitive online classifieds and property market.