Abu Dhabi investment group records Dh31.4 billion in revenue and a cash balance of Dh74.7 billion.
Dubai: IHC reported a sharp rise in first-quarter profit after tax, nearly doubling year-on-year, driven by stronger operating performance, increased investment income, and gains across its diversified portfolio.
The Abu Dhabi-based investment company reported a 98.5% year-on-year increase in profit after tax, reaching Dh8.2 billion in the first quarter of 2026. Revenue rose 33.2% to Dh31.4 billion, while earnings per share surged 246.3% to Dh2.32.
The results mark a strong start to the year, with growth recorded across multiple sectors, including real estate, construction, marine and dredging, energy, mining, hospitality, food, financial services, and technology.
Profit growth has outpaced revenue at IHC in the first quarter, with the company attributing the performance to strong operational results, higher investment income, and disciplined execution across its diversified portfolio.
The company’s total assets reached Dh445.3 billion at the end of March, up from Dh428.6 billion at the end of 2025. Total equity stood at Dh249.1 billion, while cash and bank balances remained strong at Dh74.7 billion.
This robust cash position provides significant flexibility for new investments and continued platform expansion, even after an active quarter of acquisitions and strategic deals.
Total debt rose to Dh94.8 billion, reflecting financing used to support ongoing growth initiatives. The group also reported a quick ratio of 2.7 times, indicating strong liquidity and financial flexibility.
Commenting on the performance, Syed Basar Shueb, CEO of IHC, said: “Q1 2026 marks a strong start to the year, reflecting the continued execution of our strategy to scale high-performing platforms and optimise capital allocation across the portfolio. Our performance demonstrates the strength of our diversified model, with broad-based growth, margin expansion, and a significant uplift in profitability.”
Real estate and marine lead revenue
Real estate and construction remained IHC’s largest revenue driver in the first quarter, contributing Dh10.8 billion, supported by ongoing development activity and strong project execution.
The marine and dredging segment generated Dh6.9 billion, reflecting sustained momentum across both core operations and international projects.
Energy and mining added Dh5.4 billion, driven by continued expansion in mining and energy-related activities. Meanwhile, hospitality and leisure contributed Dh2.7 billion, supported by improved performance across the group’s asset base.
Services and other segments contributed Dh1.7 billion, while the food division generated Dh1.6 billion, driven by agriculture and food production activities. Financial services brought in Dh1.3 billion, and the technology segment added Dh1 billion in revenue during the quarter.
This broad distribution of earnings highlights IHC’s continued focus on diversification, as the company builds operating platforms across sectors with strong scale potential, recurring demand, and opportunities for international expansion.
Deals widen global reach
During the first quarter, IHC completed several acquisitions and strategic partnerships that expanded its footprint across financial services, energy infrastructure, payments, microfinance, packaging, and technology.
The group also entered a strategic collaboration with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, aimed at mobilising global capital and supporting investments in emerging markets.
International Holding Company, along with Sirius International Holding and First Abu Dhabi Bank, received approval from the Central Bank for DDSC, a UAE dirham-backed stablecoin designed for institutional payments, settlements, and trade flows.
In India, IHC completed the acquisition of a 26.7% stake in Sammaan Capital for $600 million, strengthening its position in the country’s financial sector.
The group also expanded its energy portfolio. ePointZero signed an agreement to acquire Traverse Midstream Partners for $2.25 billion, boosting its exposure to gas infrastructure. Meanwhile, IRH Global Trading secured a long-term 20-year LNG sale and purchase agreement, guaranteeing supply of 1 million tonnes per annum.
In Europe, 2PointZero Group acquired a 60.8% stake in ISEM Packaging Group, expanding into luxury and consumer packaging. Beltone Capital also completed the acquisition of Baobab Bank, increasing its presence in African microfinance markets.
International Holding Company and IFZA also announced a partnership at the World Economic Forum 2026 to co-develop next-generation free zones and advanced economic platforms.
Technology and healthcare platforms expand
IHC’s portfolio activity further extended into consumer technology, healthcare, and defence-related maritime systems.
2PointZero Group participated in WHOOP’s Series G funding round, increasing its exposure to the consumer wellness sector. Meanwhile, Al Seer Marine expanded its strategic partnership with L3Harris Technologies to develop next-generation unmanned maritime systems.
Esyasoft Holding was also recognised by the World Economic Forum as the UAE’s third unicorn, reinforcing IHC’s growing footprint in energy technology and digital infrastructure.
Burjeel Holdings launched the UAE’s first Adult Critical Care Nursing Residency Program, aimed at strengthening healthcare workforce development and supporting Emiratisation efforts.
Several portfolio companies also played a visible role in sustainability-focused initiatives. Aldar Properties was appointed the exclusive real estate partner for Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026. Meanwhile, NMDC Group and NMDC Energy both received Gold-tier recognition at the same event.
IHC keeps focus on capital allocation
International Holding Company said it will continue prioritising disciplined capital allocation, portfolio optimisation, and targeted global expansion throughout 2026.
The company’s outlook highlights continued investment across technology, infrastructure, financial services, and consumer sectors, supported by its strong balance sheet and high liquidity position.
Syed Basar Shueb said International Holding Company will continue to redeploy capital into opportunities with stronger long-term value.
“We continue to recycle capital into high-conviction opportunities, expand our global footprint, and accelerate the transformation of our platforms into globally competitive businesses. With a disciplined approach and strong liquidity, we are well-positioned to sustain momentum and deliver long-term shareholder value,” he said.
