The UAE has emerged as a preeminent global financial hub and a coveted destination for international investors. In light of this, our focus in the May edition of The Finance World Magazine is directed toward the rapidly evolving domain of asset management. Through a meticulous screening process, we have identified 15 UAE-based asset management companies that have demonstrated notable proficiency and excellence in this arena. Our compilation furnishes valuable insights into the investment strategies and approaches employed by these firms and sheds light on the factors that have contributed to their resounding success.
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1. KAMCO Investment Company
KAMCO Investment Company, established in 1998 as a subsidiary of United Gulf Bank, is a regional non-banking financial powerhouse that has become a prominent player in the Middle East and North Africa. The company provides a comprehensive range of investment products and services, including asset management, investment banking, and brokerage. It has offices in key regional financial markets and operates as an independently managed subsidiary of KIPCO Group.
KAMCO Invest’s success is attributable to its client-driven experience, which focuses on the latest value-adding market insights and customized investment opportunities to meet the diverse needs of high-net-worth and institutional clients. The company puts clients at the heart of its experience and implements an ethical, empathetic, and proactive approach to building long-lasting relationships while actively managing, monitoring, and reporting on portfolios.
KAMCO Invest provides a variety of bespoke asset management solutions covering equities and fixed income, private equity, real estate, third-party solutions, and management of special situations. The company’s team combines the latest in-house market research with innovative investment strategies and solutions to suit each client’s unique needs. Its investment banking specialists have assisted some of the region’s top-rated institutions in successfully concluding M&As, Debt Capital Market and Equity Capital Market mandates.
One of the key strengths of KAMCO Invest is its strong financial position, with KWD 62.5M in shareholders’ equity as of 31 December 2022, an increase of 3.4% compared to the end of December 2021. Despite the drop in total revenue in FY 2022 compared to FY 2021, KAMCO Invest still managed to record a net profit of KWD 5.5M. The company’s asset under management as of 31 December 2022 exceeded $13.8B across various asset classes and jurisdictions, with investment banking credentials exceeding $34.7B across equity & debt capital markets and mergers & acquisitions.
KAMCO Invest’s reputation in the financial industry is evident from its credit rating of “BBB” long-term credit rating and “A3” short-term rating with a stable outlook, maintained by Capital Intelligence in its most recent review in May 2022. The company’s brokerage arm provides quick and reliable access to Boursa Kuwait and several regional and international markets, which is beneficial for clients who want to grow their wealth with the freedom to choose the financial markets that suit their needs.
In conclusion, KAMCO Investment Company is a well-established financial institution in the Middle East and North Africa that provides a wide range of investment products and services to meet the diverse needs of its clients. The company’s client-driven experience, strong financial position, and innovative investment strategies have made it a prominent player in the financial industry. Its ability to adapt to changing market conditions and maintain its credit rating despite the challenges of the pandemic shows that it is a reliable and trustworthy partner for investors seeking to grow their wealth in the region.
2. Shuaa Capital
Shuaa Capital, established in 1979, is a leading asset management and investment banking platform in the United Arab Emirates. The company has a strong track record and innovative approach to investing, offering a diverse range of global products focused on public and private markets, debt, and real estate. As of December 2021, Shuaa Capital manages $13.1B in assets under management, making it one of the region’s largest asset management companies.
In 2022, Shuaa Capital reported a decline in revenue from AED 322.7M in FY 2021 to AED 265.7M in FY 2022. However, the company’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) increased significantly from AED 54.7M in FY 2021 to AED 135M in FY 2022. Additionally, Shuaa Capital’s net profit rose from AED 24.2M in FY 2021 to AED 135.2M in FY 2022. These figures indicate the company’s strong financial performance and demonstrate its ability to adapt to changing market conditions.
Shuaa Capital’s recent acquisition of a majority stake in Souqalmal, a UAE-based fintech company, and the launch of three new Shariah-compliant funds managed by its wholly-owned subsidiary, SHUAA GMC Ltd, further demonstrate the company’s commitment to innovation and expansion. The company’s move into the fintech sector, in particular, shows its willingness to embrace emerging technologies and capitalize on the growing demand for digital financial services.
Furthermore, the recent appointment of Fawad Tariq Khan as Group CEO and Head of Investment Banking in June 2022 is expected to further strengthen Shuaa Capital’s position in the industry. Khan, who has over 25 years of experience in investment banking, is well-positioned to lead the company’s growth strategy and expand its market share in the region.
In February 2022, Shuaa Capital filed a registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to set up a SPAC that was listed on Nasdaq in March. This move demonstrated the company’s ambition to expand its reach beyond the UAE and take advantage of new investment opportunities globally. Shuaa Capital’s SPAC is expected to provide a new avenue for the company to raise capital and invest in promising startups and emerging technologies.
Shuaa Capital’s recent financial performance and strategic initiatives indicate that the company is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and expand its market share in the region. Its innovative approach to investing, commitment to emerging technologies, and expansion into new markets are expected to drive its future success. As Shuaa Capital continues to evolve and adapt to the changing financial landscape, it is likely to remain a key player in the asset management and investment banking sectors in the UAE and beyond.
3. Emirates NBD Asset Management
Since its establishment in 2006, Emirates NBD Asset Management has demonstrated impressive growth and a commitment to responsible investing, cementing its position as a major player in the UAE’s financial industry. The company has since become a 100%-owned subsidiary of Emirates NBD Bank, one of the largest banks in the MENA region. However, Emirates NBD Asset Management retains a degree of independence with its own board of directors, investment policies, and regulatory oversight.
The company’s assets under management reached $5.9B as of December 2022, a testament to the company’s success in managing funds, real estate, and other investment products. The firm manages both conventional and Shariah-compliant funds, and its funds are domiciled in Jersey, Luxembourg, and the Cayman Islands. This global reach allows Emirates NBD Asset Management to offer diversified investment opportunities to its clients.
Emirates NBD Asset Management’s commitment to responsible investing is also noteworthy. The firm became a signatory of the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment in October 2021, indicating its dedication to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in its investment decisions. This commitment is likely to resonate with investors seeking socially responsible investment options.
The company’s impressive financial performance in FY 2022 is another indication of its growth potential. Its net profit of AED 13B in FY 2022 represents a YoY increase of 40%, while total income increased by 36% YoY to AED 32.5B. The company’s net interest income also increased by 37% YoY, largely due to improved loan and deposit mixes with higher rates feeding through to margins. The balance sheet is well positioned to continue benefiting from rate rises, and the company’s non-funded income increased by 35% YoY, indicating growth in local and international card transactions, coupled with growth in FX and derivative income.
Despite this impressive growth, Emirates NBD Asset Management has maintained well-controlled expenses, indicating disciplined cost management. The increased income has enabled accelerated investment in digital and data and the international network to drive future growth. Emirates NBD Asset Management’s launch of its UAE Strategic Investment Fund in 2021 is another indication of the company’s commitment to innovation and growth. The fund, which has assets under management worth over $630M, allows the company to expand its investment offerings further and provide clients with diversified investment options.
Overall, Emirates NBD Asset Management’s impressive growth, commitment to responsible investing, and disciplined cost management make it a compelling investment option for those seeking exposure to the UAE’s financial industry. As the company continues to expand its offerings and capitalize on global market trends, it is likely to cement its position as a leading asset management firm in the region.
4. Alkhair Capital
Alkhair Capital is a prominent financial services company operating in Saudi Arabia and Dubai. Since its establishment in 2009, the company has grown to become a leading player in asset management, advisory, and private equity services across regional and international financial institutions. Alkhair Capital’s significant shareholder is Bahrain’s Bank Alkhair, and it has recorded assets under management worth $3.6B in Q1 2022.
In 2022, Alkhair Capital made notable strides in expanding its services and products. For instance, the company signed an MoU with KLAIM to launch investment products worth $50M to support healthcare service providers across MENA. Additionally, Ways Marketing Solutions Company appointed Alkhair Capital as its financial advisor to list the company’s shares on the Saudi parallel market, Nomu. These developments demonstrate Alkhair Capital’s commitment to innovation and providing tailored solutions to its clients.
Alkhair Capital has a strong presence in leading Islamic finance hubs and adheres to Islamic Shari’ah standards in all of its operations. The company’s unique position among Islamic financial institutions sets it apart from other financial services companies in the region. Alkhair Capital is a pioneer in Islamic products and has successfully advised and structured many transactions to date.
The company’s extensive experience in asset management, advisory, and private equity services has allowed it to deliver exceptional value to clients and shareholders. Its strong management team is committed to providing clients with the best possible services while adhering to Islamic finance principles. Alkhair Capital’s compliance with all laws, regulations, and decisions issued by regulators in all the jurisdictions where it operates also underscores its commitment to transparency and ethical business practices.
Overall, Alkhair Capital is a well-respected financial services company with a strong presence in Saudi Arabia and Dubai. The company’s focus on providing tailored, Sharia-compliant solutions to clients, coupled with its extensive experience in asset management, advisory, and private equity services, sets it apart from other financial services companies in the region. Its recent expansion into investment products that support healthcare service providers across MENA and its appointment as a financial advisor for the listing of Ways Marketing Solutions Company’s shares on Nomu highlight Alkhair Capital’s commitment to innovation and meeting clients’ unique needs.
5. Gulf Capital
Launched in Abu Dhabi in 2006, Gulf Capital has rapidly emerged as a leading alternative investment firm with $2.5B in assets under management (AUM). With offices across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Singapore, Gulf Capital has been at the forefront of investment opportunities in growth markets across private equity, private debt, and real estate.
At the heart of Gulf Capital’s success is its ability to partner with dynamic entrepreneurs and exceptional management teams, providing them with growth capital, strategic advice, and operational expertise to build market-leading businesses. Over the past sixteen years, Gulf Capital has leveraged its extensive network of contacts and deep industry expertise to create a portfolio of highly successful investments across diverse sectors, including technology and fintech, healthcare, business services, and consumer and sustainability.
Gulf Capital’s commitment to world-class governance, industry best practices, and sustainability has earned it a reputation as a socially conscious alternative investment firm. The company’s mission is to generate sustainable and superior performance for its institutional investors and key stakeholders by building value through responsible investment strategies and thoughtful risk management.
Recent developments have seen Gulf Capital receive a Full Asset Management License from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority in Abu Dhabi and establish its global headquarters in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The company has also opened new offices in Abu Dhabi, Cairo, and Singapore to capture the rising growth along the West-East Asia corridor. These developments underscore Gulf Capital’s continued commitment to expanding its global footprint and delivering superior returns to its investors.
With 47 employees, including 17 investment professionals, Gulf Capital has a highly experienced and talented team of individuals who bring a wealth of industry knowledge to the firm. Gulf Capital’s thematic investment approach, which focuses on identifying and investing in key growth sectors, has proven highly effective in generating attractive returns for investors.
Overall, Gulf Capital’s success is a testament to its disciplined investment approach, deep industry expertise, and unwavering commitment to responsible and sustainable investment practices. As the firm continues to expand its global presence and identify new investment opportunities, investors can expect to see continued strong performance and attractive returns.
6. ADCB Asset Management
ADCB Asset Management is a promising player in the asset management space, offering a range of investment solutions to its clients in the UAE and around the world. The company’s assets under management have grown steadily since its establishment in 2018, reaching $2B at the end of 2021. With its focus on customer service, innovation, and investment expertise, ADCB Asset Management has positioned itself well for further growth in the coming years.
One of the strengths of ADCB Asset Management is its open architecture platform, which provides clients with access to a wide range of investment opportunities, including global mutual funds, international equities and ETFs, bonds, private equity, hedge funds, and structured products. This allows clients to diversify their portfolios and benefit from a broad range of investment strategies. In addition, ADCB Asset Management has a global network of market execution and custody partners, providing clients with access to major developed and emerging markets around the world.
ADCB Asset Management also offers a range of advisory solutions, designed to identify new investment opportunities and proactively help clients make investment decisions. The company’s specialist advisory team uses complex modeling to construct and source innovative thematic ideas in global financial markets. This allows clients to take advantage of short-term market momentum and capitalize on long-term views. By bridging the gap between fully discretionary and self-directed services, the advisory proposition provides investors with greater control and oversight of their investment portfolio while benefiting from professional research and management.
For clients who prefer a more hands-on approach, ADCB Asset Management offers tailor-made, actively managed discretionary portfolio solutions designed to meet their unique investment needs. The company’s portfolio management team uses a carefully selected combination of single securities, investment funds, and other financial instruments to achieve the optimal level of diversification for each client’s portfolio. With full consideration of each client’s understanding and attitude toward risk, the investment strategies and restrictions are tailored to the level of risk and complexity most suitable for them as individuals.
Overall, ADCB Asset Management’s approach to asset management is highly client-focused and innovative. With its range of investment solutions and expertise in global financial markets, the company is well-positioned to continue growing its assets under management and providing value to its clients. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, ADCB Asset Management benefits from the stability and reputation of one of the largest banks in the UAE. This combination of expertise, innovation, and financial strength makes ADCB Asset Management a compelling choice for investors looking to grow and diversify their portfolios.
7. Mashreq Capital
Mashreq Capital, a subsidiary of Mashreq Bank, has established itself as a leading asset management company in the UAE, with a focus on delivering top-quality investment solutions to its clients in the Middle East and North Africa region. The company has grown significantly since its establishment in 2006 and currently manages $1.9B in assets.
One of the key strengths of Mashreq Capital is its team of highly skilled investment professionals. The company has consistently invested in attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry, with many of its portfolio managers boasting a wealth of experience from global names. This expertise has enabled Mashreq Capital to offer world-class investment products and solutions that have been recognized with several accolades for their exemplary performance.
Mashreq Capital offers a range of investment solutions, including conventional and Shariah-compliant options. The company’s portfolio includes the Makaseb family of mutual funds domiciled in Bahrain, DFSA-regulated funds domiciled in DIFC, and discretionary accounts. Mashreq Capital has been a leader in fund management in the Middle East and North Africa, with its mutual funds and services becoming the vehicles of choice for sophisticated investors in the region and beyond.
The company’s commitment to providing the highest level of service is reflected in its ‘fiduciary culture.’ This culture ensures that Mashreq Capital’s funds and portfolio managers are held accountable to the highest standards applicable to the asset management industry globally. Moreover, Mashreq Capital’s accounts and funds are benchmarked against internationally recognized indices, enabling investors to judge the long-term performance of the company against appropriate benchmarks.
In 2021, Mashreq Capital launched the Mashreq MENA Equity Fund and the Mashreq MENA Fixed Income Fund, expanding its product offerings further. The company also partnered with BlackRock to launch the Mashreq Global Conservative Fund, the Mashreq Global Balanced Fund, and the Mashreq Global Growth Fund. These partnerships demonstrate Mashreq Capital’s commitment to continuously improving the quality of its investment products and bringing world-class practices to the region.
Mashreq Capital is positioning itself as a long-term business that will continue to expand and become a top provider of investment management services in the region. The company is continuously striving to expand its product offerings and improve the quality of its investment products to meet the specific requirements of its clients. Its dedication to excellence has earned it a reputation as a trustworthy and reliable asset manager in the UAE and beyond.
In conclusion, Mashreq Capital has established itself as a leading asset management company in the UAE, with a focus on delivering top-quality investment solutions to its clients in the Middle East and North Africa region. Its commitment to excellence, fiduciary culture, and world-class expertise has enabled it to become a trusted partner for sophisticated investors in the region and beyond. With its continuous efforts to expand its product offerings and improve the quality of its investment products, Mashreq Capital is poised to become a top provider of investment management services in the region.
8. Waha Capital
Waha Capital, a leading private sector investment house based in the United Arab Emirates, has made significant strides in the investment management industry. As of 31 December 2022, the company managed $1.77B in assets, delivering consistent market-leading returns for its sophisticated investors. Furthermore, Waha Capital has a long-standing history of investing in public and private markets, deploying proprietary capital in alignment with the interests of its third-party investors.
Waha Capital’s Public Markets business provides investors with actively managed emerging markets credit and equity funds. The business implements distinctive strategies to deliver consistent market-leading returns through a disciplined approach to investment. Notably, the Waha MENA Equity Fund won the EuroHedge Awards in 2021 for the best Emerging Markets Equity Fund, which demonstrates the company’s commitment to excellence and success in the investment management industry.
Additionally, Waha Capital’s Private Investments business pursues a multi-asset investment approach with the flexibility to deploy capital across diverse sectors and geographies. The business leverages extensive international business networks to source deals and form co-investment partnerships. This approach highlights the company’s commitment to identifying investment opportunities globally and providing its clients with access to an extensive and diversified portfolio.
Waha Capital’s key shareholder, the Mubadala Investment Company, anchors the company in Abu Dhabi’s increasingly dynamic and entrepreneurial ecosystem. This strategic relationship allows Waha Capital to create long-term value for its shareholders, fund investors, employees, and communities. Furthermore, the company’s commitment to aligning its proprietary capital with third-party investor interests is evidence of its fiduciary culture, which is vital in the asset management industry.
Notably, Waha Land, a subsidiary of Waha Capital, has recently agreed to the sale of 17 leased warehouse buildings to Peninsula for AED 555M. This transaction highlights the company’s commitment to unlocking value in its investment portfolio and underscores its success in identifying opportunities in the real estate sector.
Overall, Waha Capital’s commitment to excellence, fiduciary culture, and strategic partnerships has made it a leading player in the UAE’s investment management industry. The company’s ability to deliver consistent market-leading returns across its investment platforms demonstrates its investment expertise and its ability to identify investment opportunities globally. With its flexible multi-asset investment approach and extensive international business networks, Waha Capital is well-positioned to continue delivering long-term value to its clients and shareholders alike.
9. Ithmar Capital
Based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Ithmar Capital is a private equity and alternative assets firm that offers a multi-asset class investment platform with a focus on absolute returns. The firm’s investment strategies target opportunities primarily operating in the MENA region, and it has $1.2B in assets under management as of December 31, 2022.
Ithmar Capital’s investment philosophy is centered around identifying special situations in public equities, particularly in healthcare and education, as well as niche real estate opportunities. The firm has a remarkable track record of delivering attractive returns to investors, with a realized internal rate of return (IRR) of 19% since inception. Even more impressive is the 45% realized IRR on the firm’s investments in education and healthcare since its inception.
The firm’s investment team is highly experienced and dedicated to making a difference. With a regional mandate and global operations, Ithmar Capital’s focus is primarily on private equity growth and buyout situations. The company is sector-agnostic with extensive expertise in healthcare and education. It also capitalizes on special situations in public equities while utilizing a private equity approach to due diligence and upside value monetization, and invests in niche real estate opportunities. The company strives to apply the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and governance, and to uphold its responsibility to deliver on commitments to its investors, people, and stakeholders.
The firm’s focus on healthcare and education is particularly noteworthy, as these are two sectors that have demonstrated significant growth potential in the MENA region. Ithmar Capital’s focus on these sectors is also aligned with the firm’s commitment to making a positive impact. By investing in healthcare and education, Ithmar Capital is helping to address critical societal challenges and support the development of these key sectors.
In conclusion, Ithmar Capital’s success is a testament to its disciplined investment approach, deep industry expertise, and commitment to responsible and sustainable investment practices. As the firm continues to identify new investment opportunities and expand its portfolio, investors can expect to see continued strong performance and attractive returns. Furthermore, with a focus on healthcare and education, Ithmar Capital is well-positioned to make a positive impact on the region while delivering strong returns to its investors.
10. Safanad
Safanad is a global principal-led investment house that has been making waves in the world of investment since its inception in 2009. With assets under management of $1.2 billion, the company has established itself as a major player in the industry, known for utilizing flexible capital and investment structures to deliver differentiated opportunities.
The company invests with conviction around themes and builds and manages platforms with an owner-operator mindset. Safanad is a real estate and private equity investment firm with offices in Dubai, New York, and London. It employs about 50 investment professionals who have completed in excess of 40 transactions with an aggregate value of $10B since 2009.
What sets Safanad apart from other investment firms is its global approach and the way it leverages its vast network of partners. Although the company invests predominantly in the US and Europe, it is global in its approach and utilizes its network of partners to gain access to a broad range of opportunities. This approach has allowed Safanad to stay ahead of the curve and make smart investment decisions that deliver superior returns.
Safanad’s investment professionals are known for their rigorous governance and their ability to create enduring long-term value beyond the life of the investment. The company’s board, team, and wider ecosystem provide preferred access to a broad range of opportunities and a network of world-class operating partners. Safanad’s exits are value-driven, and it structures each deal to ensure that it creates lasting value that extends beyond the life of the investment.
Overall, Safanad’s success can be attributed to its unique approach to investment and its commitment to building long-term partnerships based on trust and mutual advantage. As a global principal-led investment house, the firm has established itself as a major player in the industry. With its flexible capital and investment structures, Safanad has been able to deliver differentiated opportunities and superior returns for its investors. The company’s focus on building long-term partnerships and creating enduring long-term value has set it apart from other investment firms and contributed to its success over the years.
11. NBK Capital Partners
NBK Capital Partners is a pioneer in alternative investments in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a focus on private equity, mezzanine debt, and real estate. Founded in 2005 as a subsidiary of the National Bank of Kuwait, the firm has established itself as a leading alternative investment manager with over US$1.1B in assets under management.
The firm has a diversified portfolio that covers a range of sectors, including consumer discretionary, consumer staples, education, healthcare, industrials, and energy. It invests primarily in mid-market companies in the GCC, Turkey, and North Africa that have significant growth potential and opportunities for value creation. The firm’s investment approach includes buying family-owned businesses, providing growth capital for organic growth initiatives, industry consolidations, buy-and-build situations, and supporting shareholder buyouts.
NBK Capital Partners has a strong track record of sourcing and executing successful investments, with over 29 investments made across a variety of sectors since the launch of its first fund in 2007. The firm has also executed 11 mezzanine debt transactions since the inception of its first mezzanine fund in 2009. These transactions reflect the firm’s expertise in advising on regional private debt investments and their management and exits.
One of the notable achievements of the firm is the recent final close of the NBK Capital Partners Shari’ah Credit Opportunities Fund, L.P. The Fund is the firm’s third-generation private credit-focused strategy, which closed with approximately $215M of available capital, consisting of investor capital commitments and co-investment vehicles. This achievement is a testament to the confidence that investors have in the firm’s ability to deliver attractive returns.
NBK Capital Partners’ success is due in part to its focus on the MENA region and its deep understanding of the market. The firm’s presence in Kuwait City, Manama, Istanbul, and Dubai International Financial Centre provides it with an extensive network and access to a range of opportunities in the region. The firm’s ability to build strong relationships with its clients and investee companies has also contributed to its success.
The firm’s investment philosophy is aligned with the growing demand for responsible investing in the MENA region. The firm is committed to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles and has integrated them into its investment process. This approach not only reflects the firm’s values but also aligns with the values of its clients and the broader community.
In conclusion, NBK Capital Partners’ focus on private equity, mezzanine debt, and real estate investments, along with its deep understanding of the region, has allowed it to execute investments successfully and generate attractive returns for its investors. With its commitment to responsible investing and a diverse portfolio of investments, the firm is likely to continue driving alternative investments in the MENA region.
12. Fajr Capital
Fajr Capital is a Dubai-based private equity firm that has made a name for itself as a leading investor in high-growth companies. With $700M in assets under management, the company has built a reputation as a values-based and impact-driven investor that seeks to create enduring value for all stakeholders. Its investment approach is rooted in the principle of investing in what it knows, where it knows, and with whom it knows. This partnership-centric philosophy has been a key driver of the firm’s success.
Founded in 2009, Fajr Capital has attracted some of the world’s leading sovereign wealth funds as shareholders, including the Abu Dhabi Investment Council, the Brunei Investment Agency, the Government of Brunei Darussalam, and Khazanah Nasional, Malaysia’s strategic investment arm. This has helped the firm to build a solid foundation of expertise and experience that it leverages to create value for its clients.
Fajr Capital’s investment strategy focuses on channeling strategic investment into regional growth companies. These are businesses that are led by high-quality management teams and operate in dynamic and growing sectors and markets. The firm’s approach is to act as a strategic partner rather than a passive investor, with a team of seasoned investment professionals that have a proven track record of supporting growth businesses.
The firm has a successful track record of investing in industry sectors that exhibit tangible and sustainable growth potential. It targets “defensive growth” industries that have the fundamentals to succeed in both good and bad economies and have the long-term potential to achieve high valuations and returns at exit. These sectors include financial services, education, food and beverage, healthcare, transportation, logistics, oil and gas services, industrial manufacturing, and renewable energy, among others.
Post-investment, Fajr Capital aims to strengthen corporate governance and sustainability, enhance the capital structure, boost operational performance, increase product and technological innovation, develop distinctive capabilities and skills, access global management and industry expertise, and expand into new markets to become truly global players. This approach has been successful, with the company winning the 2017 award for Best Private Equity House in the Middle East at the EMEA Finance Achievement Awards.
Fajr Capital’s focus on values-based and impact-driven investment sets it apart from many other private equity firms. The company’s commitment to creating enduring value for all stakeholders – from shareholders and employees to the communities served – is a refreshing approach that is sorely needed in today’s business landscape. The firm’s success in attracting some of the world’s leading sovereign wealth funds as shareholders is a testament to the strength of its investment approach and the quality of its team.
Overall, Fajr Capital is well-positioned to continue its success; with its focus on high-growth companies, partnership-centric investment philosophy, and commitment to values-based and impact-driven investment, the firm is poised to create enduring value for its clients and all stakeholders.
13. Samena Capital
Samena Capital is a principal investment group that focuses on the Subcontinent, Asia, Middle East, and North Africa (SAMENA) region. The company has raised over $1.5B of capital since 2008 and has returned $950M to investors from over 51 full and partial exits. With approximately $390M in AUM, Samena Capital currently manages three primary investment strategies: private equity, direct investment, and credit.
What sets Samena Capital apart is its unique model that brings together entrepreneurs and business leaders from different industries across the SAMENA region as shareholder-investors. These shareholder-investors actively participate in originating investment ideas, supporting portfolio companies, sharing insights on markets and sectors, and exploring possibilities for increasing business collaboration. This approach creates a network of contacts and relationships that is crucial in a region where relationships play an important role.
Samena Capital’s investment team leverages this unique network to gain an edge in a region that is largely opaque. The team sources proprietary transactions, gains valuable insights into particular markets and industry sectors, and provides strategic and operational value-added to its portfolio companies. This approach has proven successful, as evidenced by the company’s impressive track record of returns to investors.
The company’s primary investment strategies reflect its focus on the SAMENA region. Private equity investments focus on companies in the region with a track record of strong performance and high potential for growth. Direct investments are made in companies that the investment team believes have long-term potential for value creation, while credit investments are made in companies seeking debt financing for their operations.
Samena Capital’s investment focus is on sectors with sustainable growth potential, including financial services, healthcare, education, energy, and infrastructure. By targeting these “defensive growth” industries, the company is able to invest in companies that have the fundamentals to succeed in both good and bad economic conditions. This approach has enabled Samena Capital to build a diversified portfolio of investments across a range of industries.
In summary, Samena Capital’s unique approach to investing in the SAMENA region has proven successful, as evidenced by its impressive track record of returns to investors. The company’s focus on creating a network of contacts and relationships among entrepreneurs and business leaders in the region has enabled it to gain valuable insights and source proprietary transactions. By investing in companies in sectors with sustainable growth potential, Samena Capital has built a diversified portfolio of investments that are well-positioned for long-term value creation.
14. World Investments Company
World Investments Company is a private shareholding company established in 2005, based in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai. Over the years, the company has built a great legacy in its field that extends for decades and has become a leader in the fields of financial intermediation, investment, establishment, and management of funds in the United Arab Emirates.
One of the most significant advantages of World Investments Company is its diverse range of services. The company provides an integrated platform for investors to implement strategies that suit their investment and financial requirements, as well as diversify their portfolios in the long and short terms. The company facilitates investors worldwide who trade in stock – whether new or seasoned individuals. Consequently, for any investors looking to build modern, diversified – long or short-term financial transactions, World Investments offers a comprehensive wealth management advisory service, a sophisticated trading capability, and a wide range of asset management products.
What sets World Investments apart from its competitors is its drive to serve a diverse customer base. To that end, the company has team members who are fluent in many languages, such as English, Arabic, French, German, Hindi, and others. This level of diversity reflects the company’s commitment to making its services accessible to a broad range of investors from different backgrounds and cultures.
Moreover, World Investments Company is a licensed company subject to regulation, supervision, and control of the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority under No. (604092) and also licensed by the UAE Ministry of Economy and the Department of Economic Development under No. 342 The license includes two categories: The first category is the activity of dealing in securities; trading and clearing broker. The second category is (dealing in investment); investment fund management, and securities portfolio management.
In addition, the company is a member of the Dubai and Abu Dhabi Stock Exchanges. Being a member of these exchanges enables World Investments Company to provide its clients with timely, accurate, and reliable information about the markets, as well as execute trades with speed and efficiency. This is a critical factor in the highly competitive world of financial intermediation and investment.
In conclusion, World Investments Company’s diverse range of services, commitment to customer service, regulatory compliance, and access to information and trading platforms make it an ideal partner for investors looking to diversify their portfolios, expand their investment horizons, and achieve their financial goals. The company’s long legacy and successful record attest to its ability to navigate the complex and ever-changing world of finance and investment, making it a reliable and trusted partner for investors worldwide.
15. ATI Investments
Since its establishment in 2006, ATI Investments has emerged as a key player in the financial landscape of Dubai. With a focus on a dynamic and decisive approach to investment, the company has built a reputation for identifying commercial potential and translating it into live, growing business entities. However, what sets ATI Investments apart is its vested interest in the people behind its businesses. This unique approach to investment has allowed the company to create mutually beneficial partnerships with like-minded companies and entrepreneurs, both in the Middle East and around the world.
At the core of ATI Investments’ business model is a focus on innovation and sustainability. The company evaluates every opportunity based on its merit and growth potential, welcoming all ideas and embracing innovation. While ATI Investments’ specialty is start-up businesses, it invests in companies at all stages of their lifecycle. This approach not only allows the company to maximize each business opportunity presented to it but also ensures that it remains at the forefront of emerging industries and technologies.
The company’s portfolio reflects this commitment to innovation and sustainability, with investments in healthcare, hospitality, education, and retail. These industries are not only critical to the economic development of Dubai but also reflect ATI Investments’ focus on improving the lives of people in the communities it serves. By investing in businesses that are making a positive impact on society, the company is not only generating financial returns but also creating long-term social and environmental benefits.
In summary, ATI Investments’ commitment to creating mutually beneficial partnerships with like-minded companies and entrepreneurs, both in the Middle East and around the world, is a key factor in its success. By investing in businesses that are making a positive impact on society, ATI Investments is not only generating financial returns but also contributing to the social and environmental well-being of the communities it serves.
