From London to Dubai: How Mario Volpi Built His Empire 2025

REAL ESTATE4 days ago

Mario Volpi’s journey from London’s real estate scene to the heart of Dubai is a remarkable tale of ambition, adaptation, and authenticity. With over four decades in the industry, he’s grown from a young broker in the UK to becoming the Head of Brokerage at NOVVI Properties, one of Dubai’s most trusted agencies. Along the way, he developed a reputation for unwavering integrity and a client-first attitude.

Born with a drive to succeed and mentor others, Mario began his career selling homes and building relationships. After 24 years in London, he made a bold move to Dubai in the summer of 2008—just as the city’s real estate market was on the rise. Today, he leads the brokerage arm at NOVVI, guiding agents to adopt clarity and honesty in a crowded market.

40 Years, 1 Broker: The Secrets Behind Mario Volpi’s Success

What makes Mario stand out after 40 years? It’s his relentless focus on integrity and education. He has long believed in empowering clients through transparent communication rather than aggressive sales tactics. This principle underpins NOVVI’s mission to not just sell, but genuinely serve.

Mario’s expertise is so well respected that he’s been a weekly columnist for The National since 2011, and a sought-after voice on radio shows like DubaiEye 103.8 and Dubai’s Virgin Radio. Recently, he joined the “Golden Nuggets” podcast for a special 40-year retrospective, sharing his candid thoughts on everything from pocket listings to why he never opened his own brokerage.

Since January 2023, Mario has also been a co-host on the Dubai Property Podcast—now the biggest and most informative real estate podcast in Dubai. The show, with over 400 episodes, is a quick and insightful 15-minute listen available on Amazon, Spotify, Apple, and Podbean.

He has also appeared on TV, including multiple appearances on Emirates News on Dubai One Channel, and in July 2025, he will appear on national TV in Italy, discussing international investing with a focus on Dubai, tailored to the Italian audience.

Broker, Dad, Mentor: Inside the World of Mario Volpi

On Instagram, Mario shares more than property stats—he shares life. As a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and lifelong comic collector, he balances hardworking ambition with warmth and personality. His posts—whether spotlighting agents, celebrating Eid al‑Adha, or capturing his morning routines—bring followers into a life where family, faith, and fun matter just as much as deals.

At NOVVI, Mario watches every team member grow, helping shape a culture based on trust and knowledge. His role isn’t just to direct—it’s to uplift. Employees praise him as “one of the best mentors in communications and PR”.

Real Estate Royalty: Mario Volpi’s Blueprint for Greatness

Vision & Values
Clarity, honesty and client-centered guidance are Mario’s cornerstones. Agents are trained to explain diverse scenarios and explore options, not just push listings—a real difference in a market saturated with mixed advice.

Transition & Adaptation
The move from London to Dubai wasn’t easy—but Mario thrived. He adapted his methods to a fast-evolving real estate landscape while staying grounded in core values.

Podcast & Print Influence
Mario’s media presence extends far beyond the office. On Golden Nuggets he reflected on industry evolution—from dial‑up to AI—and the future of brokerage roles. His columns in The National cover everything from neighbours’ noise issues to building grading, helping thousands make smart, informed property decisions.

The Personal Side
Behind the suit, Mario’s a comic-collecting dad, often posting family moments alongside career reflections. These glimpses make him relatable—a hard worker who never forgets what matters the most.

What’s Happening Now: Latest Moves & Projects

Monthly Columns in The National
In May 2025, Mario wrote about grading disputes with the Dubai Land Department and noise complaints about neighbours’ children—topics relatable to homeowners and tenants alike.

Recent Podcast Guest Appearances

Golden Nuggets (Feb 17, 2025): discussed 40-year career & AI’s impact.
The Real Estate Podcast (May 12, 2025): tackled Dubai’s tower boom and whether AI will replace brokers.
Co-host of the Dubai Property Podcast (since Jan 2023): 400+ episodes, 15-minute format, available on Amazon, Spotify, Apple, Podbean.

Leadership at NOVVI
Under Mario’s guidance, NOVVI emphasizes training and empathy. Their manifesto? “People always come first,” ensuring agents mirror the honesty and professionalism he embodies.

Why Mario Volpi Inspires

Longevity Through Integrity: Staying relevant for 40+ years shows that honesty and client care truly pay off.
Adaptable in a Fast World: Embracing tech and cultural shifts, yet staying true to core values.
Public Educator: His columns and podcasts break down complex topics into useful, everyday advice.
Mentor & Family Man: Blending professional excellence with real connections, making him more than just a broker.

Final Thoughts

Mario Volpi’s story is more than a real estate success—it’s proof that building with integrity opens enduring doors. From London to Dubai, from desk to microphone to print, he crafts value—not just transactions. For clients, agents, and anyone who dreams of long-term, values-driven achievement, Mario’s life and career deliver the ultimate blueprint: combine smart strategy with heart-led service, and you build something that lasts.

So if you’re navigating property, career, or curiosity—listen to his columns, tune into his podcasts, and seek to lead with clarity, courage, and care, just like Mario. Do follow him on Instagram.