US and Abu Dhabi deepen investment ties

The UAE’s International Holding Company (IHC) has agreed on a new framework in partnership with a US government agency to support private investment in key sectors across emerging markets, as reported by Emirates News Agency WAM via the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) on January 14th. 

IHC, is a major Abu Dhabi-based investment company, and the US agency collaborating with the company is the DFC. The two sides said the framework is aimed at backing projects that support economic growth.

The deal was signed in Abu Dhabi in the presence of Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, chairman of the IHC. The agreement was signed by Syed Basar Shueb, chief executive of IHC, and Ben Black, chief executive of DFC.

Speaking after the signing, Syed Basar Shueb said, “This strategic framework with DFC represents a powerful alignment of capital, capability and conviction. By combining IHC’s global platform and sectoral leadership with DFC’s financial expertise, we are creating a scalable mechanism to deliver transformational investments across critical industries. Together, we aim to unlock long-term value, strengthen resilient supply chains, and drive sustainable economic growth across key markets that matter to both our nations.” 

Within this framework, IHC and DFC will reportedly work together to identify and boost investment projects in several sectors. These include critical minerals and mining; energy and infrastructure; logistics and maritime services; healthcare and pharmaceuticals; digital connectivity and data centres; food security and agriculture.

Talking about the partnership, Ben Black said, “DFC’s work with IHC is a crucial step in executing President Trump’s foreign policy vision and deepens the US-UAE bilateral relationship. Together, IHC and DFC will focus on investments that strengthen and expand economic opportunity and advance shared US-UAE strategic goals, all while making a return for the US taxpayer. By leveraging IHC’s and DFC’s global reach and investment expertise, both nations will be positioned to deliver high‑return projects and promote world‑class investment standards”.

IHC and DFC will be setting up a joint committee made up of senior representatives from both organisations. This group will oversee cooperation and help speed up decisions on potential investments.

Reportedly the framework is designed to balance commercial returns with wider economic and development goals. It also seeks to strengthen supply chains and support higher standards in cross-border investment.

The partnership reflects the close economic relationship between the United Arab Emirates and the United States. IHC brings its global investment reach and experience in managing large projects, while DFC acts as the US government’s main agency for overseas investment support.

Through the framework, the two sides will reportedly look for projects that create jobs, support skills development, encourage the use of new technologies and contribute to long-term economic stability in partner countries.

WAM, US International Development Finance Corporation, Maghrebi.org