Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, and President of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), recently met with David M. Rubenstein, Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of The Carlyle Group, a prominent global private investment firm. The meeting, held at Sheikh Maktoum’s office, focused on strengthening partnerships with leading global private investment firms to accelerate the growth of the financial services sector and the national economy.
Sheikh Maktoum emphasized the UAE’s commitment to fostering partnerships with firms like The Carlyle Group, highlighting the country’s innovative model for public-private partnerships that have consistently attracted fresh investment opportunities and driven economic growth. He also reiterated Dubai’s dedication to supporting global companies by providing a business-friendly environment and a legislative framework conducive to sustainable growth. The emirate’s strategic advantages, infrastructure strengths, collaborative ethos, and access to international markets have positioned it as a premier global hub for investment and enterprise, creating exceptional opportunities for private investment across various sectors.
Rubenstein praised the UAE’s transformation into a leading global and regional financial and business hub, expressing The Carlyle Group’s interest in expanding its presence in the region and exploring opportunities in emerging markets. The meeting was attended by key officials including Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Essa Kazim, Governor of the DIFC; and Amit Kaushal, Group Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding. Representatives from The Carlyle Group, including CEO Harvey M. Schwartz and Managing Director Ani Khatri, were also present.
With assets totaling $425 billion worldwide across private equity, credit, and investment solutions, The Carlyle Group operates in 28 offices across four continents with over 2,200 professionals. The firm established an office in the DIFC in 2006, further solidifying its presence in the region. The meeting underscored the mutual interest in exploring collaboration opportunities and leveraging Dubai’s conducive business environment for further growth and investment.
The discussions between Sheikh Maktoum and Rubenstein reflect the UAE’s proactive approach to attracting global investment and fostering partnerships with leading firms to drive economic development and innovation. The meeting signals a promising future for enhanced collaboration between the UAE and The Carlyle Group, with both parties poised to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the region’s dynamic financial landscape. As Dubai continues to position itself as a global investment destination, such engagements play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country’s financial sector and broader economy.