An Abu Dhabi-backed investment firm has acquired a controlling stake in British entrepreneur Richard Caring’s hospitality portfolio.
The UK-based group’s portfolio includes the iconic The Ivy restaurant chain, along with the exclusive members’ club Annabel’s.
DIAFA, an affiliate of International Holding Company (IHC), will take majority ownership through a transaction reportedly valued at over £1bn.
Chaired by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, IHC has rapidly positioned itself as a leading global investment powerhouse.
The deal also includes a wider portfolio of premium venues such as George, Harry’s Bar and Mark’s Club, in addition to Caprice Holdings’ restaurant assets.
Richard Caring will remain executive chairman and is expected to work closely with DIAFA to support the group’s next phase of international growth.
The transaction further strengthens Abu Dhabi’s global investment footprint, reflecting continued Gulf interest in high-end hospitality and lifestyle assets.
Widely known as the “King of Mayfair”, Caring built one of the UK’s most recognisable hospitality portfolios after initially generating wealth in the fashion sector.
He transformed The Ivy from a single, celebrity-favoured venue into a nationwide brand with more than 40 locations, while expanding a portfolio of premium dining destinations and private clubs.
For Abu Dhabi, the acquisition enhances DIAFA’s exposure to the food and beverage sector, complementing earlier investments such as Azumi Group.
The move aligns with IHC’s broader diversification strategy, which spans sectors including financial services, energy and consumer businesses.
For Caring, the partnership represents a partial exit while unlocking capital to accelerate the global expansion of his hospitality brands.
