International Holding Company

International Holding Company (IHC) is a publicly listed holding company headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, known for managing a diversified portfolio of domestic and international investments across multiple sectors.

Founded in 1998 initially as Asmak with a focus on the fisheries sector, it quickly grew into a regional market leader in seafood export. Over time, IHC diversified its operations significantly, expanding into real estate, agriculture, finance, healthcare, food and beverages, utilities, renewable energy, manufacturing, IT, communications, retail, and leisure sectors.

The company went public on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange in 2005 and later underwent a rebranding from International Fish Farming Company (Asmak) to International Holding Company as it transformed into a conglomerate holding strategic investments.

IHC's growth accelerated notably in the late 2010s and early 2020s, with substantial acquisitions and listings of subsidiaries on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, including companies like Alpha Dhabi and ESG.

It has become one of the most valuable companies in the Gulf region by market capitalization, driven by strategic investments and partnerships, such as a significant investment agreement with the Indian Adani Group and ventures into renewable energy through stakes in firms like Turkey’s Kalyon Enerji.

IHC also expanded its global reach with acquisitions like a majority stake in a Zambian copper mine.

The company is closely linked to the Abu Dhabi ruling family, with Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan serving as chairman, and its largest shareholder being Royal Group, owned by the ruling dynasty.

IHC's rapid valuation growth has attracted scrutiny and debate in financial circles concerning the transparency and governance of the company.

Today, IHC manages over 100 companies in nine business segments, with notable revenue contributions from real estate and construction, agriculture and fisheries, and food and beverage sectors.

With over 7,800 employees, it is considered one of the largest holding companies in the region, listed prominently on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange, and recognized by Forbes as one of the largest public companies globally. Its continuous expansion and diversified portfolio position it as a key player in the UAE’s economic landscape.