SIC Commits to Janus Henderson’s MENA Private Credit Fund to Support Growth of Mid-Sized Industrial Companies in Saudi Arabia
Riyadh, [02-10-2025]
SIDF Investment Company (SIC) has announced a strategic commitment to Janus Henderson’s MENA Private Credit Fund IV, a private credit strategy targeting the underserved mid-sized companies across the MENA region, with a primary emphasis on the industrial sector in Saudi Arabia. This commitment represents SIC’s focus in partnering with leading managers and attracting global institutional funds to address the financing gaps in the industrial sector.
The fund, with a target size of USD 300 million, is designed to provide tailored and flexible debt solutions that enable businesses often overlooked by traditional lenders to grow and expand. By offering bespoke financing structures, the fund aims to close the funding gap for companies that are vital to the region’s economic diversification and development; while achieving appropriate risk-adjusted returns to fund investors.
While the fund is sector-agnostic, it will primarily focus on industrial, healthcare, education, consumer staples, and infrastructure-related sectors areas that align closely with national priorities and long-term economic goals in the region.
SIC’s investment underscores its continued dedication to supporting private sector growth, strengthening industrial development, and catalyzing economic transformation through innovative financial instruments. By partnering with leading global and regional asset managers, SIC aims to foster a robust and diversified private capital ecosystem that advances the objectives of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Commenting on the announcement, the CEO of SIC Fahad Alnaeem said: “Our investment with Janus Henderson marks a significant step in SIC’s strategy to partner with and attract world-class fund managers to the Kingdom. By providing access to flexible private credit solutions, we are enabling mid-sized industrial companies to unlock new growth opportunities, while building a stronger and more diversified private capital ecosystem that supports long-term economic transformation”
Ali Dibadj, CEO, Janus Henderson Investors, said: “We are proud to welcome this significant investment from SIDF Investment Company into our Shariah-compliant direct lending vehicle, which reflects both the strength of our strategy and the confidence our partners place in us. Private credit plays a vital role in supporting the growth and resilience of mid-sized companies, particularly in dynamic markets such as Saudi Arabia. This partnership underscores Janus Henderson’s commitment to delivering long-term value for investors while supporting consistent growth that will contribute to the Kingdom’s wider economic transformation."
Yaser Moustafa, Head of Emerging Markets Private Investments, and Sikander Ahmed, Head of Middle East Private Credit, will continue to lead the Fund alongside the long-tenured local team.
<ABOUT SIC> The SIDF Investment Company (SIC) was established to accelerate the development of Saudi Arabia’s industrial sector by facilitating strategic private sector participation and delivering innovative investment solutions. SIC focuses on key national sectors including industry, mining, energy, and logistics, with the aim of building an integrated and sustainable industrial ecosystem.
<ABOUT Janus Henderson > Janus Henderson Group is a leading global active asset manager dedicated to helping clients define and achieve superior financial outcomes through differentiated insights, disciplined investments, and world-class service.
As of June 30, 2025, Janus Henderson had approximately US$457 billion in assets under management, more than 2,000 employees, and offices in 25 cities worldwide. The firm helps millions of people globally invest in a brighter future together. Headquartered in London, Janus Henderson is listed on the NYSE.
