Global private markets firm EQT has recently launched its Middle East platform and opened an office at Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), establishing an on-the-ground presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.The Abu Dhabi office will serve as a strategic base as EQT expands its presence across GCC markets. The platform is intended to strengthen support for existing portfolio companies, deepen institutional relationships and pursue new investment opportunities linked to the region’s economic transformation.EQT said GCC economies are playing an increasing role in global capital flows and economic growth, supported by investment in healthcare and life sciences, education, digital technology, industrials, business services, infrastructure and energy transition. These sectors align with the firm’s thematic investment strategy and global capabilities, including digital and AI infrastructure.Several EQT portfolio companies already operate in the GCC, including Nord Anglia Education, Virtusa, Banking Circle, Nothing and SAUR. The regional platform will enable EQT to work more closely with these businesses and support other portfolio companies seeking to expand in the region.The Middle East platform is led by Jimmy Mahtani, who has been appointed Chairman of GCC alongside his existing position as Chairman of India and Southeast Asia for EQT Private Capital. The Abu Dhabi office is headed by Smiyet Belrhiti, Head of Middle East and Senior Executive Officer.Jean Eric Salata, Chair of EQT Group, said, “Abu Dhabi is a place where EQT has had the privilege of developing close ties over the past three decades with senior leaders at the largest regional investors. That history is an important part of why this next step matters. We are now deepening our commitment to the GCC by putting dedicated people and resources on the ground, operating as One EQT and bringing together those relationships and our investment experience in the region with the breadth of our global capabilities.”The platform brings together Private Capital and Infrastructure investment professionals, along with capital raising and business operations teams. It is also designed to draw on EQT’s broader capabilities in areas including Real Estate and Secondaries as opportunities emerge.With the addition of Abu Dhabi, EQT now operates offices in more than 25 countries. As of June 30, 2026, the firm had EUR 341 billion, or USD 389 billion, in total assets under management.