Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Ltd (IL&FS) has opened its third global office and its first in the Middle East region at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
The Dubai operations of IL&FS aim to provide a wide range of value-added investment banking services to Indian and global clients across the MENA region. IL&FS, with a mandate to sponsor, develop and commercialise infrastructure projects, will channelise capital from the Middle East for opportunities in India, set up alliances among various business groups and leverage the infrastructure opportunities in the Middle East and India.
The organisation will also provide services in syndication of foreign currency/external commercial borrowings, export credit agency (ECA)-backed financing, offshore financing including Mezzanine structures and Sharia-based financial products.
In addition, IL&FS will offer private equity syndication with private equity funds, hedge funds and foreign institutional investors, merger & acquisition services and project & infrastructure advisory services.
Speaking on the occasion, IL&FS Group Chairman Ravi Parthasarathy emphasised on the professional capabilities of the group and its contribution to infrastructure development in India. He also explained the role IL&FS plays in promoting financial services activities.
While recalling the company’s excellent track record in India, Ramesh Bawa, MD and CEO of IL&FS, was positive about continuing the trend in Dubai and other global offices.
DIFC Governor Ahmad Humaid Al Tayer said, “Having international companies like the IL&FS Group at DIFC is testament to the importance of the Centre as a financial and business hub. IL&FS will use DIFC as a platform to access opportunities in infrastructure and financial services across the region.”