DUBAI — In an office on the top floor of a Dubai skyscraper, a Qatari entrepreneur, who asked to remain unnamed, proudly shows photos of his new car. A Range Rover, purchased not from a showroom or even a traditional dealer, but through the digital platform f1rst.auction, was delivered to him in 37 days.
“I paid only 10% upfront and transferred the rest after receiving documents and photos confirming the shipment,” he says. “It was simpler and more reliable than I expected.”
Such stories are becoming increasingly common in the Gulf, where growing interest in real assets coincides with the region’s economic transformation.
Shifting Priorities
For decades, oil was the backbone of the Gulf’s economy. Today, however, governments in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar are actively promoting diversification programs such as Vision 2030. At the core of this strategy are technology, renewable energy, and new investment models.
f1rst.auction, a European digital platform, has become part of this transformation. It offers clients not only cars but also the chance to invest in shipping containers, rare metals, and even luxury goods.
Containers as Rental Business
In the port of Hamburg, cranes lift containers while investors from Oman and Bahrain receive monthly payouts. Through f1rst.auction, private individuals purchase containers leased to transport companies. Returns range from 15–35% per month.
For some, this is an alternative to real estate: investing in a container proves simpler and faster than buying a house or apartment.
Lithium — the New Oil
The most attractive sector is resources, especially lithium, already dubbed the “oil of the 21st century.” It is used in batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones, and energy storage systems.
In the Czech Republic and Africa, investors gain access to real mines through f1rst.auction. The minimum entry is €750,000, with returns reaching 41% per month.
A London-based investor told us:
“I chose lithium because I know demand will multiply within five years. I receive reports and payouts directly to my crypto wallet. This isn’t a paper promise — it’s a real project.”
Palladium, Gold, and Rare Stones
For those oriented toward traditional assets, gold, platinum, and palladium are available, with entry starting at €300,000.
A precious metals analyst in Zurich notes:
“Gold remains a safe haven in times of crisis. But palladium and platinum are showing growth thanks to industrial demand.”
Returns in these sectors range from 32–42.5% per month. For those seeking both prestige and investment, diamonds and rare stones are also offered, with returns of up to 48% per month.
Luxury as Capitalized Style
In Milan, at a luxury auction, rare Rolex watches and Cartier jewelry find buyers from Doha and Riyadh.
Through f1rst.auction, such deals are conducted remotely. For some clients, this is about collecting; for others, it’s long-term investment.
“I bought a watch that will be worth more in a few years,” says a client from Geneva. “It’s not just an accessory — it’s an asset.”
The Money of the Future
What draws special attention is how transactions are made. The platform accepts both SWIFT transfers and cryptocurrency USDT.
- Bank transfers are most often used for gold and luxury.
- USDT is preferred for lithium, palladium, and containers.
According to the company, over 40% of transactions are already done in cryptocurrency. In the Gulf, that share exceeds 50%.
A Global Picture
Experts note that the f1rst.auction model reflects new trends in the global economy. Europe remains a supplier of assets — cars, resources, luxury — while the Middle East is the largest market for demand and investment.
“This is a new economic bridge,” says an analyst in Dubai. “Europe supplies resources and technology, while the Gulf region becomes the main investor.”
Conclusion
From SUV owners to lithium and container investors, client stories show that investments through f1rst.auction have become part of a new economic landscape.
For some, it’s a prestigious car. For others, participation in a strategic project of the future. But for all, it’s an example of how digital platforms are reshaping the rules of investment.
The world is moving toward real assets — and f1rst.auction is at the center of this movement.
