Doha, Qatar: In a significant move signalling its commitment to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a leading infrastructure investor with over $170bn in assets under management and part of BlackRock, has announced plans to open an office in Doha.
According to a press statement from the company issued on Monday and seen by The Peninsula, the new office will serve as a regional hub for GIP’s MENA investing activities, enabling the firm to deepen its engagement with key clients and partners while capitalising on emerging opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.
The decision to establish a presence in Doha underscores GIP’s confidence in the economic growth and investment potential of Qatar, in particular, and the MENA region in general.
Chairman and CEO of GIP Bayo Ogunlesi expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, stating, “Throughout GIP’s history, we have had very strong and productive relationships with our key clients and corporate partners across the Middle East.
“Today’s announcement deepens our commitment to an important region. We are excited by the prospects for the Middle East region, driven by strong economic growth, the expansion of the capital markets, and the emergence of transparent regulatory frameworks.”
GIP Chairman and CEO last month visited Qatar where he met with senior officials and discussions were held on key global financial and investment developments.
Established in 2006, the GIP boasts a diverse portfolio that encompasses Gatwick Airport in the United Kingdom, the Port of Melbourne, and significant offshore wind initiatives. Last year, BlackRock acquired GIP for a sum of $12.5bn, information on the company website indicated.
Over the years, the GIP has cultivated strong relationships with corporate partners and investors across the Middle East, leveraging its expertise in sectors such as energy, transport, digital infrastructure, and water and waste management. With this latest development, the firm aims to enhance its ability to identify and execute high-impact investments that align with the region’s strategic priorities, including sustainable development and energy transition.
The opening of the Doha office is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approvals, the statement read.
