Riding the Wave of Success: Acwa Power’s Stellar Financial Performance in 2025!

Hey there, fellow energy enthusiasts! If you haven't heard about Acwa Power, the world’s largest private water desalination company, then you’re missing out on some seriously exciting news coming straight from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Buckle up because Acwa just dropped its financial results for the year ending December 31, 2025, and let’s just say, they’re making waves! 

A Deep Dive into the Numbers

So, what’s the scoop? Acwa Power reported a whopping net profit of SAR 1.9 billion for 2025! That’s right, folks, they didn’t just break even—they smashed expectations with an adjusted net profit that skyrocketed by 60% to SAR 2.2 billion. Talk about a financial glow-up! This impressive surge is largely due to a 20% increase in operating income, hitting SAR 3.6 billion before any pesky impairment losses. With significant contributions from both their development ventures and operating assets, it’s clear Acwa is riding high on success!

But wait, there’s more! Dr. Samir J. Serhan, the CEO, highlighted that Acwa financially closed 15 projects in 2025, totaling an investment of SAR 70 billion. That’s a record-breaking year, my friends! With new power purchase agreements (PPAs) and water purchase agreements (WPAs) in Bahrain, Kuwait, and China, Acwa has added a staggering 25 GW of power and 2.1 million m³/day of water to its portfolio. Now, that’s what I call a growth spurt! 

Looking Ahead: The Future is Bright

As we look to the future, Acwa’s ambitions for 2026 are just as lofty. Dr. Serhan emphasized the need for operational excellence, disciplined growth, and consistent value creation. With a focus on safety and proactive risk management, Acwa aims to ensure that every riyal spent translates into direct profitability. Sounds like a solid plan, right? 

Also, let’s not forget the impressive stats—by year-end, Acwa’s gross power capacity reached 93 GW, with 56% of that being renewable energy. Plus, their desalination capacity now sits at a jaw-dropping 9.2 million m³/day. Add to that a robust battery energy storage system of 5.6 GWh, and you’ve got a recipe for success that’s hard to beat! 

In conclusion, Acwa Power is not just a company; it’s a game-changer in the energy sector. With their innovative approach and commitment to growth, they’re set to lead the charge into a sustainable future. Keep your eyes peeled for their conference call on March 4, 2026, for more juicy insights. Until next time, let's stay energized! 

Nahda Capital Sparks a Fresh Renaissance in GCC Private Equity

Hey folks, big news dropped in **DUBAI, UAE** this week! Nahda Capital Partners just filed to register its first private equity fund right out of ADGM. This fresh player jumps straight into the action across the Gulf Cooperation Council.

The Name Says It All: Time for Renewal

"Nahda" means renaissance in Arabic, and these guys picked it on purpose. They aim to spark renewal and resurgence by forging lasting partnerships. Moreover, they focus heavily on boosting the real economy. Consequently, they prioritize backing local founders, families, and institutions that drive real growth.

The team, led by Founder and Managing Partner Iñigo de Luna, brings serious firepower. These pros delivered roughly 36% gross IRR through multiple cycles. Therefore, they now chase a control-oriented mid-market strategy mainly in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the wider GCC.

Targeting the Sweet Spot: Resilient Businesses Ready to Scale

Nahda hunts founder-led and family-owned gems that ride structural regional waves. Many face generational shifts or crave institutional cash plus operational muscle to expand fast. Additionally, the firm partners closely with shareholders for majority stakes. They push professionalization, better operations, stronger governance, and smart buy-and-build moves.

Sectors look juicy: food production and distribution, healthcare, education, plus industrial tech. Interestingly, their style aligns with Sharia-compliant principles—real assets, careful leverage, solid governance.

Eyes on the Prize: Fundraising and Long-Term Vibes

Iñigo de Luna nailed it: tough times hit now, but safety and calm stay top priority. Still, he calls this a short shock, not a trajectory flip. The GCC keeps strengthening as a prime spot for building and investing long-term. Thus, Nahda stays convicted.

Pending approvals, they kick off fundraising soon. They target about $300 million for the debut fund, all managed from ADGM. Exciting times ahead for mid-market deals in the region!

IAAPA Expo Middle East Hits Pause: Safety First, Fun Delayed to 2027!

Hey attractions fam, big news just dropped from the desert vibes of Abu Dhabi, UAE. IAAPA, the powerhouse global association for the attractions industry, decided to push back IAAPA Expo Middle East. Instead of happening soon, the event now lands from 12 to 15 April 2027. The Board of Directors met on 10 March 2026, reviewed the latest developments in the Middle East region, and chose safety over speed.

Why the Postponement Makes Total Sense

Safety sits at the top of IAAPA’s priority list. They refuse to gamble with the well-being of members, exhibitors, visitors, partners, and everyone involved. The decision followed deep talks with the IAAPA EMEA Regional Advisory Board, the Manufacturers & Suppliers Committee, MENALAC leaders, plus tons of input from exhibitors, speakers, and local players. Everyone weighed in, and the consensus pointed to delay.  

Jakob Wahl, IAAPA’s President and CEO, didn’t sugarcoat it. He admitted the call hurt because so many poured time, money, and excitement into the inaugural edition. Still, he stressed that protecting the global community always wins. The team promises direct updates to exhibitors, sponsors, speakers, and attendees soon.  

Looking Ahead with Optimism

IAAPA stays fully committed to the Middle East attractions scene. They plan to deliver an epic gathering in 2027 where industry leaders spark innovation and build killer collaborations. The attractions world keeps evolving, and this pause simply clears the path for an even stronger comeback. Stay tuned – bigger thrills are coming!