In the dynamic landscape of the Middle East, the M&A market has yet again demonstrated significant resilience throughout 2023, despite facing formidable global economic and geopolitical challenges. The region performed steadfastly, largely steered by regional sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) and government-related entities (GREs). Leading organizations largely diversified their portfolios away from their reliance on hydrocarbons. Some of the prime sectors riding the growth trajectory and witnessing investment activity include fintech, healthcare, agribusiness, and renewable energy.
Looking ahead to 2024, indicators suggest a continuation of robust activity. However, there’s an increased potential for deal flow driven by investment platforms that were launched in the later months of 2023 or early 2024. These platforms will go a long way, enabling SWFs and GREs to extend their global investment footprint to nurture alternative investments. Naturally, forward-thinking organizations would be seeking M&A transaction advisory services in Dubai to remain on the right track.
Broader Investment Reach
SWFs and GREs, in recent years, have actively pursued broader and often more prominent investments in sectors like renewable energy and infrastructure. In developed economies, they have acquired significant stakes in key assets. In 2024, this trend is likely to persist, particularly with the geopolitical landscape impacting the deal flow. This will support oil prices in the Middle East.
Economies that are currently grappling with severe issues like high inflation rates, conflicts, interest rates, and geopolitical uncertainties will benefit from fresh opportunities. Several governments are actively engaging SWFs and GREs in the Middle East to invest in domestic assets and projects, aiming to bridge financial gaps beyond their own resources. Outbound M&A, involving global cross-border transactions, is poised to become a prominent trend.
Besides, investments are likely to pour into different industries like healthcare, technology, AI, fintech, nuclear, agribusiness, and renewable energy. In M&A activities, ESG (environmental, social, and governance) are likely to play a crucial role. Particularly, the UAE is working on its commitments made during COP 28 in 2023. This is evident from its launch of a $30 billion climate fund for investing in different ESG projects.
Inbound Investment and Favorable Regulatory Environment
Inbound investment is projected to remain active as Middle East governments focus on developing leisure, energy infrastructure, and tourism assets. These investments often take the form of joint ventures, with incoming partners providing vital technology or expertise. The legal and regulatory framework in the Middle East, influenced by principles from British and American systems, has seen an uptick in Middle East registered Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) used for investment purposes, both domestically and internationally. Businesses entering the Middle East or operating in the UAE are looking for transaction advisory services in Dubai for professional guidance.
Moreover, there has been an increased traction in M&A transactions backed by warranty and indemnity insurance. The London insurance market proved to be receptive to such initiatives, and this trend is likely to dominate 2024 too.
The Outlook for Middle East Regional and Outward-Bound M&A Activities
Both regional and outward-bound M&A appear promising in the Middle East although the performance in 2023 looks a bit subdued compared to expectations. GREs and SWFs are likely to play a significant role in a diverse range of M&A deals in 2024. The focus lies on technology, renewables, infrastructure, and healthcare.
The IMC Group continues to be a reliable partner for businesses seeking due diligence services in Dubai amidst increasing M&A activities.
