Kochi Emerges as Preferred Destination for NRI Investment in Real Estate
The city of Kochi has witnessed a surge in NRI investment in real estate, primarily in the form of land or commercial establishments, as NRIs across the globe are looking for a safe and stable investment option following the rising regional tensions and uncertainties.
Shift from Dubai
For long, Dubai was the undisputed treasury for Kerala diaspora, but with the emirate's residential property market facing a decline in valuations, Kochi has emerged as a more attractive option for NRI investment.
- According to ValuStat data, the home price index in Dubai fell by 6% in March 2026, compared to the previous month.
- This marks a significant pivot from the double-digit annual growth that previously characterized Dubai as one of the world's hottest real estate hubs.
Increased Enquiries in Kochi
Real estate agents in Kochi have reported a significant increase in enquiries for both small and big properties, with a majority of the demand coming from commercial buildings and plots that can be developed.
- Kerala Real Estate Agents Association (Kerka) Ernakulam district treasurer Midhun Lal said that they are getting a lot of enquiries for both small (below Rs 2 crore) and big properties (nearly Rs 25 crore).
- The demand is more for two categories — commercial buildings and plots that can be developed, especially in areas like Maradu.
NRIs and Golden Visa Holders Reassessing Investment Options
Even several Golden Visa holders are now reassessing the opportunity cost of keeping their liquid assets in a plateauing market, with many opting to invest in properties or residential units in Kochi.
- Asset Homes Pvt Ltd founder and managing director V Sunil Kumar said that the market has revitalized, with many families opting to come back and invest in properties or residential units here.
- The trend of investing in the Gulf sector, which was experiencing a boom post the pandemic, has slowed down, with many Indian builders focusing on places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Kochi's Infrastructure and Real Estate Boom
Kochi's infrastructure, anchored by Kochi Metro, Water Metro, road infrastructure projects, and expansion of Infopark, has created a perfect storm for investors, making it an attractive option for NRI investment.
- Confederation of Real Estate Developers Associations of India (Credai) CEO Sethunath M said that the market across Kerala is currently steady, with Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram being the most attractive destinations.
- Kerala Real Estate Regulatory Authority (K-RERA) chairperson Asha Thomas also said that it is too early to make a definite assessment on the impact of war on Kochi's real estate market.
Key Statistics:
- 10-12% increase in prices of prime residential units in Kochi.
- Rs 7,000 per sq ft was the price of land in Kakkanad last year, but now it is close to Rs 9,000 per sq ft.