Against a backdrop of increased geopolitical instability, Suffolk Building Society has seen a 140% increase in expat cases. The Society compared figures from the beginning of the conflict in Iran with the preceding two-month period.
Year-on-year analysis by the specialist expat lender also revealed a similar trend. Comparing March and April 2026 with the same period last year, the Society recorded a 102% increase in expat applications and a 33% rise in £1m+ applications.
Suffolk's figures also reveal that the number of applications from British nationals residing in the Gulf states remained stable across the two-month period, March to April 2026 versus 2025. However, while applications in 2025 came from residents in just four Gulf states, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Oman, in 2026 they originated from all six Gulf states.
Charlotte Grimshaw, head of intermediaries at Suffolk Building Society, commented: “Expat lending is similar to standard UK lending in that there are all types of borrowers – first-time buyers through to those enjoying retirement abroad. The latest ONS data highlights emigration is highest among 25-34-year-olds, who are typically in prime property-buying years.
“There are several reasons why these expats choose to own a property in the UK, whether it’s as an investment or wanting to maintain a residential property for family to reside in, or for when they finish working abroad and return home.
“Despite the conflict in the Middle East, we are still seeing a fairly consistent level of activity in the region. From our experience it’s attractive to younger applicants, (singles and couples) which could explain why we’ve seen no drop off in demand.
“We know expats are anything but a one-size-fits-all group, and that these cases can be complex. Brokers can spend hours working with a client before an enquiry even reaches a lender, so this effort must not be wasted. Part of our success comes from always starting with the question, 'How can we make this work?'
“Expat business can be a particularly rewarding area for brokers, both in terms of opportunity and long-term relationships. For any brokers thinking about dipping their toes in the water, finding a lending partner with a proactive, can-do approach will make all the difference.”
