Full Breakdown
Temasek Expands into the Gulf with New Offices in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Expansion Plan
Singapore’s state-owned investment firm Temasek announced on September 30, 2026 that it will open offices in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The hubs are slated to become operational in the first half of 2027, subject to statutory approvals, and will serve as “strategic hubs” for Temasek and its portfolio companies.
Background & Context
The Gulf region is undergoing an economic transformation driven by national diversification plans. Despite uncertainty from the Iran-related conflict that began on February 28, 2026, the Middle East continues to attract international investors. Temasek’s move follows its 2025 launch of the asset-management arm Seviora in Abu Dhabi and a 2024 partnership with BlackRock’s Global Infrastructure Partners to target $30 billion of infrastructure deals across the Persian Gulf and Central Asia.
Timeline
- September 1, 2026 – Chia Song Hwee assumes the role of Chairman, Middle East & Africa.
- September 30, 2026 – Temasek announces the Riyadh and Abu Dhabi office plans.
- First half of 2027 – Planned opening of the two Gulf offices, pending regulatory clearance.
Data & Statistics
- Temasek’s net portfolio value was S$518 billion (? $405.5 billion) as of March 31, 2026.
- The Gulf expansion will raise Temasek’s global network from 13 offices in nine countries to 15 offices across 11 countries by 2027.
- The firm controls roughly $400 billion in assets on behalf of the Singapore government.
Official Statements & Responses
Temasek CEO Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara said the Middle East is a key component of the firm’s worldwide network, highlighting the region’s “remarkable” pace of economic reform and attractive long-term fundamentals. He noted that Temasek’s relationships in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar have been built over years through partnerships and co-investments, and that the new offices will deepen those ties.
Verbatim Quote
- “The pace and ambition of economic transformation across the region are remarkable, and its long-term fundamentals remain highly attractive.” — Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara, Temasek CEO
What’s Next
The Riyadh and Abu Dhabi locations will become operational once required statutory approvals are secured, targeting the first half of 2027. Temasek indicated that the Gulf hubs will also facilitate deeper engagement with institutions in Qatar and other Middle Eastern markets, positioning the firm to pursue partnership and investment opportunities across the broader region.