News

As we head towards ADIPEC Exhibition and Conference 2024 on 4-7 November, the Energy Industries Council (EIC) DataStream project database is now tracking over 500 energy projects in the GCC with a total value of almost US$750bn in the period to 2030, underlining the scale of the energy sector opportunities in the Middle East.

I am delighted to be taking participating in the EIC Networking Breakfast being held on 4 November at Pearl Rotana (adjacent to ADNEC), 7.30 - 9.00am and to be invited as a panel member on the topic of “Unleashing Global Energy: How Can We Spark Cross-Border Collaboration and Trade?” Confirmed speakers also taking part will be Ellis Renforth, VP, Wood and Jamy Zakharia, Business Development Manager, Petrofac.

In a world where energy demands are as globalised as the markets that serve them, effective cross-border collaboration and trade are pivotal. The panel will delve into the dynamics of international energy cooperation, exploring how regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, and geopolitical strategies can be aligned to foster robust energy trade. We wish Stuart R Broadley HonFEI, Ryan McPherson and the rest of the EIC team all the best for the ADIPEC event, which we know is extremely demanding on the team.

The annual ADIPEC event serves as a strategic reference point for many businesses Middle East regional expansion, whether that is implemented by organic growth, levering of third-party ventures or accelerated growth through acquisitions. HFI has over 20 years track record of planning and implementing clients’ acquisition mandates in the Middle East and we feel the time was right to capture that expertise and experience in an Acquisitions & Divestments eGuidebook which was launched in conjunction with ADIPEC 2024.

Acquisitions in the Middle East have their own processes, trends and nuances which need to be understood and  tackled: ultimate beneficial ownership verification, the absence of published audited accounts, the proliferation of the use of local partner ventures and the change of control impacts, customer vendor registration and approval impacts, the impact of local laws, the roll out of taxation throughout the region and the need for regulatory approval of most ownership changes being just some of the key watch points. The need for dual language documentation and legalized powers of attorney and corporate documentation can also add to timetable planning and preparations.

HFI has very much appreciated to act on various acquisitions, divestments and exits over the last 12 months and we are looking forwards to the new horizons that ADIPEC 2024 and its orbit will bring.

Please contact Sally Reeves, HFI's Client Relations Manager, to arrange for a copy of the eGuidebook or to arrange a call if we can be of support with any of your MENA acquisitions and divestments.