Knotch Real Estate is a company built by people, for people

Maria Gallabov, Founder and Managing Director, Knotch Real Estate, brings over a decade of leadership and insight in Dubai’s ever-evolving property market. With a bold yet human-first approach, she has positioned Knotch as more than just a brokerage — it’s a company built by people, for people.

At the heart of the brand lies its motto: “We craft visions & strategies, rooted in facts, shaped by experience.” This guiding principle drives everything from the company’s internal culture to client advisory. Excerpts from an interview with Gallabov and the management team at Knotch Real Estate.

■ What led you to create Knotch Real Estate, and how does it reflect your personal values and vision?

Maria Gallabov (MG): I had learned the business of real estate. I made money, won awards, bought properties, hit all the milestones. But something was missing. Fulfillment. Purpose. That higher sense of contribution — the one that gives real meaning to our existence.

That’s when I knew it was time to build something of my own. Knotch is more than a company — it’s a reflection of what I believe in: kindness and people first.

■ “Built by people, for people” is a powerful line. What does that mean in practice for your clients and your team?

MG: “Built by people, for people” means we lead with heart and kindness. For our clients, it’s about truly listening to them, not just selling. For our team, it’s about being seen, supported, and valued. Because real estate isn’t just about properties — it’s about people. Always.

■ The Knotch office is more than just a workplace, it feels personal, intentional. Can you take us back to the construction phase? What was that journey like for you?

MG: The journey of building the Knotch office was incredibly personal — and one of the most challenging chapters I’ve lived. We started with nothing. Literally. It was a shell and core space — just concrete, wires, and dust. Everything you see today was imagined, learned, and built from scratch.

I didn’t come from a construction background, but I threw myself into it completely. I learned everything — engineering, MEP, interior design, and material sourcing — because I didn’t want to just build an office. I wanted to build a space that feels like us.

■ When you first stepped into the finished space after months of dust, drilling, and decision-making, what went through your heart?

MG: When they put the signage up, the adrenaline kicked in — the outdoor sign was being installed, and suddenly everything felt real. When I finally stepped into the finished space, I froze. No more drilling, no more shouting. Just silence… and light. The dream I had carried in my head for so long was finally standing in front of me — built with love, struggle, and intention. And in that moment, I knew: it was all worth it.

■ Behind every bold company is a team of people who live its values. Who are the leaders that make Knotch what it is today?

MG: I’m proud to be surrounded by a leadership team that truly brings Knotch to life.

Ecaterina Procopi, Marketing Director — the creative mind behind our brand identity, voice, and media presence.

Hazem Wahab, Sales Director — calm, focused, and principled. His integrity sets the tone for our sales culture.

Ali Naser, Sales Manager — a thoughtful leader who blends strategy with empathy and keeps the team grounded.

Cedric Michel, Sales Manager — energetic and business-driven, with experience in Dubai and Luxembourg, always focused on excellence in client service.

Ecaterina Procopi, Marketing Director

■ The name Knotch, the letter K, the calm blue, the platinum accents... what is the deeper story you were trying to tell through these choices?

Ecaterina Procopi: Every element of our brand was chosen with intention, not to impress, but to express who we are. It’s a visual language of trust, silent power, and purpose. Royal blue stands for silent power; platinum, for rarity and integrity. The “K” stands for kinesis — the Greek word for movement. It’s a nod to our origins and a reflection of real estate itself: constant motion, progress, and growth. And “Notch” stands for top notch — a standard we hold ourselves to in everything we do.

Together, It’s more than a brand — it’s a quiet statement of who we are.

Ali Naser, Sales Manager

■ What principles guide the way you support others at Knotch?

Ali Naser: At Knotch, support means more than checking in, it means being fully present. I believe in leading with clarity, trust, and consistency. People need to feel heard, respected, and challenged in the right way. I always try to give space for others to grow while staying available to guide when needed.

It’s about building something together, not just managing performance, but empowering people to reach their own version of excellence.

Hazem Wahab, Sales Director

■ How has your journey with Knotch helped you grow not only as a leader but as a person?

Hazem Wahab: My journey with Knotch has been a defining one. It challenged me to grow not only as a leader, but as a person. In real estate, it’s easy to chase performance — but I’ve learned that without a strong culture, even the best strategies collapse.

As Sales Director, my role goes far beyond numbers. It’s about setting the standard, building trust, and creating an environment where people are empowered to perform — not pressured to. Leadership, to me, means showing up consistently, listening fully, and holding space for others to grow. Maria’s vision set that tone early on, and it reminds all of us to lead with intention, and to build something that truly lasts.

Cedric Michel, Sales Manager

■ With experience in both Dubai and Luxembourg, how has international exposure shaped your real estate approach?

Cedric Michel: Working across two very different markets taught me the value of adaptability and precision. In Luxembourg, it’s all about structure, long-term relationships, and attention to detail. Dubai, on the other hand, demands speed, vision, and connection. Blending both helped me develop a more complete approach, one that’s strategic but also personal.

This international exposure has also shaped the way I lead. It helps me bring more value to the team, by offering different perspectives, encouraging a more global mindset, and challenging the usual way of thinking.