Capabilities · Gulf capital
Gulf Capital Advisory
We help Western businesses decide whether Gulf capital is right for them, which investors to approach, how to structure the opportunity and how to build the relationships that come before a raise.
The market
Gulf capital is substantial, sophisticated and selective. It is also relationship-led, and its investors differ widely in mandate, speed and expectations. Getting the approach right the first time matters, because first impressions in the region last.
What we do
Gulf capital strategy
Whether, when and how to approach Gulf investors, and how that fits the wider capital plan.
Investor mapping
Identifying the family offices, private investors and institutions most likely to fit the business.
Readiness and preparation
Getting the numbers, materials and management story ready for Gulf investors' scrutiny.
Structure and Shariah considerations
Advising on structures that suit Gulf investors, including Shariah-compliant options where relevant.
Relationship building
Introductions and meetings in the region well before capital is needed.
Regional presence and partnerships
Advice on whether a regional partner or presence would strengthen the case with certain investors.
How we work
We start with an honest conversation about fit. Some businesses are ready for Gulf capital now, some will be in a year, and some are better served elsewhere. We say so plainly.
Why it needs a specialist
Gulf investors often decide through a small number of senior people, value long familiarity and expect a partnership rather than a transaction. Understanding those habits changes how a business should approach them.
Our view of the market
We publish research on how Gulf capital allocates, including our market study on private credit and the Gulf investor, so clients start with an evidence-based view.
Considerations
Questions worth resolving early
- Why Gulf capital, and why now
- Which kind of Gulf investor fits the business
- Whether the structure suits the investor's values and governance
- How much time management can give to the region
- What the business offers beyond a financial return
Who leads the work
Every mandate is led by a Founding Partner and run by a senior team, supported by our analysts in London, with our Head of GCC Coverage leading investor relationships across the Gulf.
Meet the teamFurther reading
Gulf Capital
From first introduction to close: a raise with Gulf investors, step by step
A step-by-step guide to a Gulf capital raise, from preparation through investor meetings and diligence to close, and the mistakes that end a raise.
Investor Perspectives
How Gulf family offices assess a Western business
Gulf family offices ask familiar questions of a Western business. What differs is the order they weigh them in, and how the answers are gathered.
Family Offices
Building the relationship before the raise
In the Gulf, the strongest capital conversations usually begin long before a business needs the money, and they are sustained between raises.
Questions
Frequently asked.
Do we need an office in the Gulf to raise there?
No. Many Western businesses raise from Gulf investors without one. For some investors, such as sovereign anchors, a regional presence can strengthen the case, and we will advise if that applies.
How early should we start?
Ideally well before capital is needed. Gulf investors tend to back people they know, and that familiarity takes time to build.
Which Gulf markets do you cover?
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Doha and Kuwait, covered from our London base through travel and established relationships.