Investment Forum | MENA // Panel: Who’s backing MENA’s data center boom? Trends in financing and M&A

Walk-In Passes Available Onsite!
  • —
  • Investment main stage
  • Open Session

Speakers

Gulfraz Qayyum

Managing Director, Head of Communications Investment Banking, Citigroup

Hicham Agouzzal

Hicham Agouzzal

Associate Investment Officer, International Finance Corporation

Luke Hanson

Executive Director, Telecom Sector Lead / Global Structured Finance, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation

Ross McKenzie

Ross McKenzie

CEO, RMA Advisory

Thomas John

Head of Investments & Financing, DataVolt

MENA’s data center boom is fueled by a diverse mix of investors, from sovereign wealth funds driving consolidation to global infrastructure funds and hyperscalers seeking strategic opportunities. Recent M&A activity highlights the growing appetite for market expansion, while innovative funding strategies are reshaping how projects are financed. What role do local and global investors play in this transformation, and how can collaboration overcome regulatory and cultural complexities to maximize ROI?

Attendees will gain insights on:

  • Key financing models driving data center growth in MENA
  • The role of sovereign wealth funds and global investors in shaping the region’s investment landscape
  • Recent M&A trends and their influence on market consolidation and expansion strategies
  • Strategies for navigating regulatory and cultural complexities to attract and deploy capital effectively