M&A Momentum in the Middle East: True Economic Resilience
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In 2023, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region witnessed a remarkable 4% increase in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) activity, totaling an impressive $86 billion total deal value, according to EY MENA”. This surge was mainly driven by the GCC Region, which accounted for more than 96% of the activity. A testament to the region’s economic strength, drawing a significant need for a reliable expert network in the middle east.  

The surge in M&A Activity

2023 marked a pivotal year for the Middle East, showcasing an economic environment resilient to global uncertainties. Key drivers of this activity include strategic investments by sovereign wealth funds and a heightened focus on sectors pivotal for future development. The technology sector emerged as a hotbed for M&A activities, alongside significant investments in chemicals and energy, underscoring a diverse economic expansion strategy

Sovereign wealth funds, such as the UAE’s Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), were at the forefront of this M&A wave, boasting 305 deals worth $24.8 billion combined. UAE investors specifically targeted the US, launching 21 deals valued at $15.3 billion.

Most of the region’s M&A value, $53.5 billion, came from 208 outbound deals. The tech sector was buzzing with activity, leading in deal volume with 141 transactions. However, the chemicals sector stole the show in deal value, hitting the $17 billion mark.

North America emerged as the top region for attracting deals from the MENA, with $2.7 billion spread across 32 transactions, showcasing its appeal to MENA investors, according to Forbes.

Brad Watson, EY Strategy & Transactions Leader ecpects M&A to remain robust in 2024, given continuing trends around energy transition and digitalization. 

Expert Network in the Middle East: The Connective Tissue in the M&A Boom 

The significant need for a reliable and innovative expert network in the Middle East has become increasingly vital. These networks facilitate the flow of critical market intelligence, through custom-sourcing of subject matter experts, enabling investors and businesses to make informed decisions amidst a complex and dynamic M&A landscape.

“Launched at the start of this year, Infoquest has rapidly grown to offer a homegrown alternative to the world’s major expert networks, serving consulting firms, private equity funds, and corporations seeking on demand market insights and deep subject matter expertise.” 

Reach out at info@iqnetwork.co to learn more about how to leverage our network, or fill out the form with your project details and we will take care of the rest. 

PUBLIC INVESTMENT FUND (PIF) TOWER The KAFD and its tallest structure, the PIF Tower, in Riyadh

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