Riyadh – Mubasher: Saudi Arabia has become one of the most attractive markets for international firms looking for new merger and acquisition (M&A) deals. This year is expected to see an increase in this trend following the conclusion of several successful transactions in 2020, according to The Unit: Business Consulting & Support.

Recently, The Unit, a regional consulting firm operating in the KSA and the Arab region since 2006, successfully orchestrated a buyout of a local facility management company that was acquired by a leading global conglomerate in the energy sector, according to a press release on Tuesday. 

In the third quarter of 2020, Saudi Arabia was among the top investment banking fee gainers in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and is projected to maintain its position during 2021 as more companies are benefitting from the investment climate in the region, and the kingdom particularly.

Corporate Finance and Strategy Advisory Director at The Unit, Jamil Fakhri, said “As Saudi Arabia leaps ahead in its economic transformation in line with Saudi Vision 2030, the doors are open for international market players to expand their presence in the largest economy in the Region. We have seen M&A activities leveraging the capabilities of leading local companies for attenable go to market solutions.”

The Unit expects 2021 to witness further consolidation in key markets such as healthcare, education, e-commerce, and energy. The local M&A market is valued at more than $1 billion.

Alongside these developments, new laws and economic initiatives are enhancing the growth prospects in the kingdom; hence attracting international investors.

“There is strong optimism in the local M&A market as Saudi Arabia remains committed to opening its economy and exploring new areas of investments. We are confident this factor will continue to drive greater interest from international investors,” concluded Fakhri.