In the first quarter of 2025, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerged as the frontrunner in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, recording 63 deals. This surge is attributed to the country’s strategic economic reforms and its emphasis on sectors like technology and consumer products.
A notable transaction during this period was the $12.4 billion acquisition of Truist Insurance Holdings by a consortium including Clayton Dubilier & Rice, Stone Point Capital, and Mubadala Investment. Additionally, Mubadala, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and Pacific Alliance Group (PAG), invested $8.3 billion for a 60% stake in China’s Zhuhai Wanda Commercial Management Group.
These significant deals underscore the UAE’s capability to attract and execute large-scale, cross-border transactions. The country’s focus on digital transformation and consumer-centric sectors has further bolstered its M&A landscape.
Furthermore, the UAE attracted 60% of MENA’s total inbound deal volume and 67% of its value, highlighting its appeal to international investors, particularly from the United States and the United Kingdom.
