Partners Group, one of the largest firms in the global private markets industry, has announced plans to expand its presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council region with the opening of an office in Kuwait. The application process is underway, and subject to regulatory approvals, the firm expects to announce completion and appointment of a local leadership team in due course. This move follows the firm's establishment of a Middle East presence with its Dubai office in 2010 and most recent expansion to Abu Dhabi in 2025.
Executive Chairman Steffen Meister noted that Kuwait's significant investors have been long-standing supporters of the firm. He highlighted the country's impressive growth plans under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of Kuwait, and Crown Prince His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah. Meister emphasized that Kuwait and the wider GCC have become a globally relevant nexus for the coming technologically led economic transformation, with the region set to offer many compelling investment opportunities in the coming decade.
Suhail Albaz, Chairman for Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia at Partners Group, stated that the firm has deep long-standing relationships in Kuwait built over decades. The Kuwait office team will be responsible for engaging key stakeholders on their investment priorities and expanding Partners Group's investment portfolio in the state. Albaz emphasized the firm's commitment to supporting Kuwait in achieving its investment and economic diversification goals.
The expansion comes as Partners Group's portfolio companies already employ over 2,000 individuals in the region, with many actively looking to increase their footprint. The Kuwait office will bring Partners Group's total number of offices worldwide to 25, further solidifying its global reach. The firm manages over USD 185 billion in assets globally with investment programs spanning private equity, private credit, infrastructure, real estate, royalties, and special opportunities.
This strategic move signals increasing institutional interest in the GCC region's economic transformation and technological advancement. For business and technology leaders, the expansion represents growing private market investment in a region positioning itself for technological leadership. The office opening could facilitate greater capital flows into regional technology initiatives and support the economic diversification efforts championed by GCC governments. More information about Partners Group's global operations is available at https://www.partnersgroup.com.
