Global Innovators Episode #2: Real Estate Disruptor Bets on Co-Living in the Desert
When Bass Ackermann arrived in the UAE as a young expatriate, he experienced firsthand the challenges of finding affordable housing due to the steep upfront payments typically required when securing a place to live.
Now, the South African-born real estate executive is gearing up to launch an exciting new co-living concept aimed at solving this problem by eliminating excessive deposits, while also offering a flexible approach that could prove ideal for digital nomads in the Gulf.
The inspiration behind HIVE Coliv, which combines modern living with community spaces, dawned on Bass after spending his early career on large developments that he felt sometimes lacked market demand.
Having worked tirelessly to bring HIVE to life, he hopes it will resonate in the Middle East's leading business hub, which has embraced hybrid work models as part of its goal to attract top global talent. Bass believes these factors could make it a huge success, particularly because of its disruptive approach aimed at combating urban loneliness and providing the flexibility he longed for over a decade ago.