Abu Dhabi’s IHC

The Biggest Company You’ve Never Even Heard Of

June 2026 9781805265726 232 pp
Forthcoming Pre-order
Available as an eBook
EU Customers

Description

Bigger than McDonald’s? Yes. Toyota? Yes. Chevron? Almost. Coca-Cola? Soon. From humble beginnings as an Abu Dhabi fish farm operator to becoming one of the world’s most powerful investment giants, the International Holding Company’s meteoric rise reads like a modern business fairytale. This compelling book chronicles the breathtaking 42,000 per cent growth that catapulted the IHC from regional obscurity to global prominence under the visionary leadership of its enigmatic chairman, Sheikh Tahnun bin Zayed Al-Nahyan.

Abu Dhabi’s IHC unveils the strategic masterstrokes, ambitious acquisitions and bold partnerships that built this diversified empire. From Indian corporate alliances and Chinese tech deals to pioneering sustainability initiatives and Microsoft partnerships, readers discover how the IHC became instrumental in Abu Dhabi’s ambitious economic diversification agenda, successfully navigating complex geopolitical tensions and market volatility.

This remarkable narrative of modern Arab capitalism spotlights the intersection of royal influence, strategic vision and unprecedented growth ambitions. Through detailed analysis of leadership dynamics, financial performance and future strategic planning, Gulf politics expert Christopher M. Davidson reveals how this cornerstone of the UAE’s metamorphosis is poised to dominate the world stage. His book is essential reading for business leaders, prospective investors–and anyone fascinated by the Middle East’s new economics.

Author(s)

Christopher M. Davidson is an academic and consultant specialising in Arab Gulf states. He formerly taught at Zayed University, United Arab Emirates, and Durham University, and held visiting positions at Leiden and Kyoto Universities. He has seven books with Hurst.

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