Did you indulge in some shopping this October? Well, Abu Dhabi’s ultra-wealthy Al Nahyan family took spending to the next level by acquiring a $78 million London mansion. Before you wonder how many homes they truly need, remember, the UAE president already purchased a $82 million Chelsea mansion just last year. This latest gem, located in the prestigious Holland Park neighborhood, ranks as one of the priciest residential acquisitions in London this year.
For the Al Nahyans, one of the world’s richest families, worth over $300 billion, this purchase barely makes a dent. Still, it’s undeniably a stunning property, complete with a swimming pool and a private cinema. While some speculate the acquisition aligns with Sir Keir Starmer’s efforts to strengthen ties with the Middle East, it might also be a savvy business move. According to researcher LonRes, property prices in Kensington, Notting Hill, and Holland Park saw reductions in the year through October.
The Al Nahyan family, who control 6 percent of the world’s oil reserves, own palatial estates worldwide. These include the Château de Baillon near Paris and numerous high-value properties across the UK, such as Berkeley Square in Mayfair, the Time Life Building on New Bond Street, and residential hotspots in Knightsbridge, Westminster, and Kensington.
Their primary residence, the $490 million Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, is not just home, but it’s a cultural icon, listed among the world’s top 20 landmarks of art and culture.