Partners Group, a leading global private markets firm, has announced plans to open an office in Kuwait, expanding its presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council region. The application process is underway, with completion and appointment of a local leadership team expected following regulatory approvals. This move represents a strategic expansion for the firm, which already maintains offices in Dubai since 2010 and Abu Dhabi since 2025.
The Kuwait office will bring Partners Group's total number of offices worldwide to 25, reflecting the firm's commitment to strengthening its regional presence. Steffen Meister, Executive Chairman of Partners Group, emphasized the importance of Kuwait's market, noting that the country's significant investors have been long-standing supporters of the firm. He highlighted Kuwait's growth plans under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of Kuwait, and Crown Prince His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah.
This expansion matters because Kuwait and the wider GCC region have become globally relevant hubs for the coming technologically led economic transformation. According to Meister, the region is set to offer many compelling investment opportunities in the coming decade. The firm's increased presence positions it to better support Kuwait's investment and economic diversification goals, which are crucial for the country's long-term prosperity beyond traditional energy sectors.
Suhail Albaz, Chairman Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia for Partners Group, stated that the firm has deep long-standing relationships in Kuwait built over decades. The Kuwait team will be responsible for engaging key stakeholders on their investment priorities and expanding Partners Group's investment portfolio in the state. This local presence enables more direct collaboration with Kuwaiti investors and institutions seeking exposure to private markets opportunities.
The implications of this expansion are significant for both the regional investment landscape and global capital flows. Partners Group currently manages over USD 185 billion in assets globally and employs approximately 2,000 professionals worldwide. The firm's portfolio companies already employ over 2,000 individuals in the Middle East region, with many actively looking to increase their footprint. This suggests that the firm's expansion could facilitate further job creation and economic development in Kuwait and neighboring countries.
For investors, this development provides increased access to Partners Group's expertise across private equity, private credit, infrastructure, real estate, royalties, and special opportunities. The firm's operationally oriented approach to identifying attractive investment themes and transforming businesses into market leaders could bring valuable capabilities to the Kuwaiti market. Readers can find more information about the firm at https://www.partnersgroup.com.
The announcement reflects broader trends of increased private markets activity in the GCC region as countries diversify their economies and seek alternative investment opportunities. Partners Group's expansion into Kuwait represents both a vote of confidence in the country's economic future and a strategic positioning to capture emerging opportunities in one of the world's most dynamic regions for investment and growth.
