Sotheby’s International Realty UK, which is part of the Sotheby’s Realty Group which has over 1,000 offices across 70 countries, has been sold to the brand’s Dubai arm.

Its former owner Robin Paterson, who joined iBuyer UPSTIX as partner last year, has sold UK Sotheby’s International Realty to his partner and affiliate George Azar, who owns Sotheby’s Dubai and the Middle East region.

Paterson said: “I am delighted to have sold the business to George Azar and his team who will develop the UK brand throughout London and the UK. There are strong synergies already between the ME region and UK, but these will be enhanced by one ownership.”

Azar commented: “We are pleased to have acquired the UK Sotheby’s business and form this ultimate trifecta between UAE, Saudi Arabia and United Kingdom. It is exciting news for the Sotheby’s global realty market as these regions have always had a very strong relationship and we believe that with this acquisition of the UK we can lead this trilateral relationship onto the next chapter”.