Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed owns a rental property in Dubai, according to his latest financial disclosure. The property, listed as a single-family home, is located in the luxury community of Tilal Al Ghaf, developed by Majid Al Futtaim Holdings, a company that has faced controversy over its treatment of migrant workers.
Abdul El-Sayed's Financial Disclosure
The disclosure, released on Monday, lists an outstanding debt of up to $100,000 to Majid Al Futtaim Tilal Al Ghaf Phase A LLC, a subsidiary of the Emirati real estate conglomerate. The debt is classified as a 'Developer Credit Balance', which could refer to a payment plan for the property.
El-Sayed's campaign did not respond to repeated requests for comment. The candidate has previously faced criticism for his wealth, which has accumulated since his unsuccessful gubernatorial run in 2018. His tax returns show a significant increase in income, with $686,000 in total income last year, placing him in the top 1 percent of Michigan earners.
The luxury community of Tilal Al Ghaf, where El-Sayed's property is located, offers 'resort-style' living with amenities such as a recreational lagoon, park, and walking trails. Residents also have access to a gourmet restaurant, grocery store, and elite schools, including the Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai.
El-Sayed has defended his foreign properties, saying that his wife's family inherited them and then sold them, but his disclosure shows that he and his wife still own the properties and generate rental income from them.