UAE Drives M&A with $25.4 Billion Deals in H1
Deal News | Aug 19, 2025 | Zawya
In the first half of the year, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerged as the leader in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, accounting for nearly half of the total deals. According to data from EY, the UAE saw $25.4 billion in M&A transactions, representing 43% of the total $58.7 billion in MENA deals. This surge in M&A activity underscores the UAE's attraction for global capital, aided by a stable regulatory framework and economic diversification efforts. The strategic partnerships with Europe, Asia, and North America have further fueled growth. Additionally, Saudi Arabia recorded $2.5 billion in deals, approximately 4.3% of the regional total. Key sectors receiving investment include chemicals, technology, industrials, and real estate. Throughout the MENA region, 425 M&A transactions were recorded, a notable 31% increase in volume and 19% growth in value, driven in part by regulatory reforms and improved macroeconomic outlook.
Sectors
- Financial Services
- Chemicals
- Technology
- Real Estate
Geography
- United Arab Emirates – The UAE is the leading country in M&A transactions in the MENA region, accounting for a significant portion of the deals.
- Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia is identified as a significant player with considerable M&A activity within the MENA region.
- MENA Region – The entire MENA region is the focus of the article, with an emphasis on its overall M&A performance.
Industry
- Financial Services – The article discusses mergers and acquisitions activity, which is central to the financial services sector.
- Chemicals – Chemicals are identified as one of the key sectors involved in investment and M&A activity.
- Technology – Technology is highlighted as a strategic focus area for growth and investment in the MENA region.
- Real Estate – Real estate is mentioned as one of the sectors receiving investment in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Financials
- $25.4 billion – Total M&A deals in the UAE for the first half of the year.
- $58.7 billion – Total M&A transactions in the MENA region for the first half of the year.
- $2.5 billion – Total M&A deals in Saudi Arabia for the first half of the year.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EY | Data Source and Analyst | Company | EY provides the data and insights into the M&A activity within the MENA region. |
| Brad Watson | MENA EY-Parthenon Leader | Person | Brad Watson provides insights into the MENA region's attraction for global capital. |
| Anil Menon | MENA EY-Parthenon Head of M&A and Equity Capital Markets Leader | Person | Anil Menon comments on the investor confidence and sustained M&A activity in the MENA region. |