British ‘hybrid’ agent Ivy Gate is launching in the Middle East, starting with Dubai.

Ivy Gate, which was founded in 2013 by ex-LSL director Jason Tebb, has appointed former LSL colleague Ryan Dougan as managing director of Ivy Gate Middle East.

Dougan, who is already based in Dubai, said: “My real estate interest began at the age of 16, working part-time in a local agency, from where my passion for the industry grew.

“After operating in management positions in the UK for several years, in 2011 I made the decision to move to Dubai with one of the largest real estate firms in the region.

“In this role I became a specialist in the Palm Jumeirah and quickly realised my approach of straight talking and honest professional advice as well as up-to-date market knowledge was exactly what was needed in the Dubai market.

“I first met Jason when we worked for the LSL group in the UK.

“When we first started discussing Ivy Gate coming to Dubai we both knew there was a significant gap in the UAE market which is often blighted by inexperienced salespeople with little expertise or continuity.”

Dubai is a huge global real estate market. Last year over 50% of the AED £135bn worth of real estate sold in Dubai was purchased by buyers outside the middle east.

Ivy Gate is backed by shareholder ex-Dragon James Caan.

The firm is expected to make further announcements about its expansion shortly, this time in Europe.

The firm said it is looking for international business partners to develop its brand globally, while also seeking franchise partners in the UK.

Tebb said: “We are in active negotiations with property experts in 12 territory locations.”