EQT Establishes Middle East Foothold in Abu Dhabi

The Abu Dhabi location serves as the primary hub for a broader regional network that EQT intends to scale over time. The firm currently operates in 25 countries, representing a footprint that spans economies responsible for over 80 percent of global GDP.

Jimmy Mahtani assumes the role of chairman of GCC, maintaining his existing leadership responsibilities for India and Southeast Asia. Smiyet Belrhiti, tasked with overseeing the Middle East, will operate as the senior executive officer for the new branch. This expansion follows recent internal discourse from EQT leadership regarding the democratization of private equity, signaling an intent to bridge the gap between complex asset classes and private investors in the region.