Funds management firm, Aliph Capital, names new Managing Director to oversee Saudi Arabian activities.
Aliph Capital Expands Operations in Saudi Arabia with New Managing Director
Aliph Capital, a UAE-based private equity firm founded by Huda Al-Lawati in 2021, is expanding its presence in Saudi Arabia by appointing Hanadi Al Ali as Managing Director to lead the Group's business development efforts. The new affiliate office in Riyadh is part of this strategic expansion 13.
Hanadi, with over 25 years of experience in investments, wealth management, and financial services, brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She has previously worked at Malaz Capital, Arcapita, Al Rajhi Capital, and Samba Financial Group 1.
Aliph's investment strategy focuses on growth by partnering with regional businesses and asset managers, including investments from prominent Saudi entities such as the Jada Fund of Funds (a Public Investment Fund company) and Saudi Venture Capital. The firm aims to leverage its unique and dynamic business model with a global outlook and deep regional presence, underpinned by a commitment to integrity, innovation, and long-term value creation 1.
The firm has so far deployed capital in two companies: The Pet Shop and the UAE's Sanipex Group. Aliph made its debut investment in November 2022, acquiring The Pet Shop from Kasamar Holdings for an undisclosed amount. Sanipex Group, a lifestyle product supplier, was acquired in December 2024 1.
Aliph Fund I, the firm's debut fund, was recently finalized at $200 million, 20% below its target size of $250 million. The fund is anchored by Abu Dhabi-based sovereign wealth fund ADQ and backed by limited partners such as Saudi Venture Capital and Jada Fund of Funds 1.
Aliph Capital aims to invest between $15 million and $40 million in a portfolio company. The firm is looking for companies with a minimum annual revenue of AED 100 million ($27.2 million) and plans to deploy capital in about eight to 10 mid-sized companies over the next four to five years, primarily in Saudi Arabia and the UAE 1.
In addition to Hanadi's appointment, Gaurav Wadhwa was appointed as a managing director last year 4. Aliph Capital's operations are based in the UAE, and there is no mention of any other managing directors or involvement with ADNOC's Covestro deal, Trendyol, or BlueFive Capital's PE fund 3.
Sanipex Group provides bathroom, kitchen, surface, lighting, and outdoor solutions to retail, corporate, and trade customers across the GCC and beyond 1. The firm has not been previously associated with renewable energy firm Masdar or any other specific funds beyond Aliph Fund I 3.
This expansion reflects Aliph's strategy of investing in businesses and generating value through active management in the Kingdom's fast-growing market. Hanadi's expertise is crucial for the Kingdom's business environment, according to Huda Al-Lawati, the Founder and CEO of Aliph Group 1.
Hanadi Al Ali, the new Managing Director of Aliph Capital, will lead the company's business development efforts in Saudi Arabia, given her extensive experience in finance. Aliph Capital's strategic expansion into Saudi Arabia includes an appointment of Hanadi and the opening of a new affiliate office in Riyadh.
