Temasek plans to open offices in UAE, Saudi Arabia in 2027

Photo credit: Temasek

Temasek plans to open offices in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh in the first half of 2027, marking its first physical presence in the Middle East as the Singapore investment company deepens its exposure to the region.

Subject to statutory approvals, the offices will serve as “strategic hubs” for the investment firm and its portfolio companies, some of which are expected to co-locate there, Temasek said on September 30.

The investment company added that it sees broad-based opportunities in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Qatar. It will also step up engagement with institutions in Qatar to pursue investment and partnership opportunities.

Temasek further noted that the expansion will give the company greater access to opportunities in Central Asia and Africa.

The Middle East has become an important part of Temasek’s global network, CEO Dilhan Pillay shared, citing the region’s pace of economic transformation and what he described as attractive long-term fundamentals.

“We see strong alignment between the region’s priorities and Temasek’s own areas of focus,” he said.

Temasek’s relationships in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar have been built over several years through partnerships, co-investments, and its portfolio companies, Pillay added.

Expanding regional presence

Chia Song Hwee, CEO of Temasek Global Investments, shared that being on the ground would strengthen Temasek’s engagement with partners and improve access to investment opportunities across the Middle East and beyond.

He was appointed chairman for the Middle East and Africa on September 1 and will oversee Temasek’s engagement and long-term growth in those markets.

Ankit Khemka, managing director for the region, will continue to drive the company’s strategy and expansion.

The opening of Abu Dhabi and Riyadh offices is expected to bring Temasek’s global network to 15 offices across 11 countries in 2027, up from 13 offices across nine countries today.

Its existing locations in Asia include Beijing, Hanoi, Mumbai, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Singapore.

Other locations are Brussels, London, Mexico City, New York, Paris, San Francisco, and Washington, DC.