Arada Acquires Roberts Co's NSW Arm in Strategic Expansion
Deal News | May 07, 2025 | Zawya
UAE-based master developer Arada has acquired the New South Wales arm of Roberts Co, a prominent Australian construction firm known for its work across multiple sectors. The acquisition includes a $20 million recapitalization by Arada, aimed at securing 120 direct jobs and providing stability to 600 indirect roles within Sydney's construction supply chain. Arada plans to invest up to $100 million to expand Roberts Co into new sectors and international markets, including the UAE, with an aspiration to achieve $1 billion in annual revenues by 2028. The acquisition ensures the continuation of four major Sydney projects, including schools and a hospital, and highlights the strengthening economic ties between Australia and the UAE. Roberts Co's leadership will remain in place to ensure stability throughout the transition.
Sectors
- Construction
- Real Estate Development
- Economic Partnership
Geography
- Australia – Roberts Co is an Australian company, and the acquisition directly affects projects in New South Wales.
- United Arab Emirates – Arada is based in the UAE, and the acquisition reflects the country's economic interests and expansion strategies.
Industry
- Construction – The acquisition involves a construction company, Roberts Co, and affects multiple ongoing construction projects in Sydney.
- Real Estate Development – Arada is a master developer, involved in real estate projects, indicating relevance to the real estate development industry.
- Economic Partnership – The article highlights the economic ties between Australia and the UAE, underpinned by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
Financials
- $20 million – The initial recapitalization amount invested by Arada into Roberts Co (NSW).
- $100 million – Potential investment by Arada for the expansion of Roberts Co into new sectors and geographies.
- $1 billion – The revenue target set by Arada for Roberts Co by 2028.
- $2.5 billion – Arada's planned investment for real estate development in Australia.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arada | Acquirer | Company | A UAE-based master developer focused on expanding its international presence in Australia. |
| Roberts Co | Target company | Company | An Australian tier-one commercial construction company with experience in multiple sectors. |
| Ahmed Alkhoshaibi | Group CEO of Arada | Person | CEO providing leadership and strategic direction for Arada’s expansion plans. |
| George Kostas | Executive Chairman of Roberts Co | Person | Key leadership figure at Roberts Co, ensuring continuity and stability post-acquisition. |
| Ridwaan Jadwat | Australias Ambassador to the UAE | Government | Emphasizes the strategic importance of the acquisition for Australia-UAE relations. |
| Dr Fahad Obaid Altaffag | UAE Ambassador to Australia | Government | Highlights the strategic alignment with the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. |