Abu Dhabi:EQT, a global private markets firm managing assets worth US$389 billion, has launched its Middle East platform and opened an office in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), Abu Dhabi's international financial center.

According to Emirates News Agency, the establishment of the Abu Dhabi office underscores EQT's commitment to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region by creating a direct presence. The choice of Abu Dhabi was influenced by its robust financial ecosystem, regulatory framework, and institutional environment, making it a strategic base for engaging with investors, companies, and partners in the GCC.

EQT's Middle East platform is led by Jimmy Mahtani, who has been appointed Chairman for the GCC, in addition to his role as Chairman of India and Southeast Asia for EQT Private Capital. Smiyet Belrhiti, Head of Middle East, will lead the Abu Dhabi office as Senior Executive Officer. This office is intended to be the first step in developing a broader regional platform.

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, highlighted Abu Dhabi's status as a leading global financial center, which continues to attract major investment institutions and capital. He expressed enthusiasm for EQT's contribution to enhancing Abu Dhabi's financial community.

Jean Eric Salata, Chair of EQT Group, emphasized the long-standing relationships EQT has cultivated in the region, which he considers significant for this new development. Per Franz©n, CEO and Managing Partner of EQT, noted the firm's belief in the growth opportunities within the GCC, particularly in sectors undergoing transformation and attracting long-term capital.

Smiyet Belrhiti remarked on the increasing number of high-quality companies in the Middle East, aligning with EQT‚¬Å¡¬€¦¡¬€š¬¦¡¬‚¬Å¡¬€¦¡¬€š¬¦¾¢s long-term strategies. This expansion brings EQT's global footprint to offices in over 25 countries, covering more than 80 percent of global GDP.