Abu Dhabi, 14 December 2023: Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (“ADCB”) has signed an agreement to divest 80% stake in its wholly owned property management subsidiary Abu Dhabi Commercial Properties (“ADCP”) to Nine Yards Plus Holding (“Nine Yards Plus”), a real estate subsidiary of EIH Ethmar International Holding PJSC (“EIH”). The transaction values Abu Dhabi Commercial Properties at AED591mn and the Bank will register a gain of approximately AED 490 million subject to closing conditions before the end of December 2023. The sale of the majority stake, while unlocking significant value for shareholders, aligns with ADCB’s strategy to focus on the expansion of its core banking businesses and provides a strong strategic platform for further growth of ADCP. ADCB will retain a 20% stake in ADCP post transaction and will continue its partnership via a long-term relationship agreement.
An EIH spokesperson commented: “We are delighted to announce the acquisition of a majority stake in ADCP, a market leader in property management services in Abu Dhabi. ADCP will complement the ambition of Nine Yards Plus to be at the forefront of shaping future lifestyles in the UAE and wider region. We look forward to continuing our partnership with ADCB to further develop this platform to create further value and provide premium service to our clients.”
ADCP will retain its separate corporate legal status and brand, ensuring continuity of its processes, operations and services, to best serve its clients. The property management services company will continue to leverage ADCB’s strong franchise, financial expertise and business relationships, while benefiting from the real estate expertise and growth trajectory of Nine Yards Plus Holding. Barclays Bank, through its Investment Bank, acted as the sole financial advisor to ADCB on the transaction, Deloitte advised on sell side due diligence, and Clifford Chance acted as legal advisors to ADCB. Grant Thornton, Alvarez and Marsal and Al Tamimi & Co. assisted Nine Yards Plus on buy side due diligence and legal advice respectively.