Scotland is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Gulf buyers looking at UK property, according to new search data published by Nomo.
The Sharia’a-compliant digital bank said its latest Property Pulse report, based on Rightmove search data, showed Scotland accounting for 18% of all UK property searches from Gulf Cooperation Council residents in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Nomo said Scotland had consistently ranked among the top three UK regions for GCC interest since it began tracking the data in December 2024, alongside London. In April 2025, Scotland matched London as the joint most searched region, with each taking a 23% share of searches from GCC residents.
The figures come as Nomo extends its property finance proposition to Scotland, adding to its existing coverage in England and Wales.
Within Scotland, the UAE generated 60% of all GCC searches, while Saudi Arabia accounted for 29% – above its 22% share of UK-wide searches.
Edinburgh and Glasgow were the most searched Scottish locations, representing 18% and 14% respectively of GCC searches focused on the country. Nomo said both cities benefited from their status as centres for employment, education, tourism and culture.
The bank added that other parts of Scotland’s Central Belt, including South Lanarkshire and Stirling, were also drawing interest, helped by established employment centres and student populations.
The report also pointed to strengthening market conditions. According to the Halifax House Price Index, Scotland recorded annual house price growth of 5.4% in January, with the average property price reaching £221,711.
Emma Bilan, head of property finance at Nomo, said: “The data shows a clear affinity between GCC residents and Scottish property, particularly across Edinburgh and Glasgow.
“Scotland’s housing market continues to be supported by strong fundamentals – from steady price growth to diverse buyer demand.
“This is a key reason why we’ve expanded to Scotland and the response from brokers has already been strong.
“Whether it’s a new-build in Inverness or a Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh, we’re already seeing solid case volumes and expect demand to grow further in the coming months.”
