Dubai – 16 June 2026
Oak Hill Advisors (OHA), a leading global credit-focused alternative investment firm managing approximately USD 112 billion in assets, has received regulatory approval to establish operations in Dubai International financial center, further strengthening the emirate’s position as a hub for international asset managers and alternative investment firms.
The move marks a significant milestone for both OHA and DIFC, coming shortly after the credit-focused alternative investment manager became the 100th hedge fund manager registered in the Centre in late 2025. The development further reinforces Dubai’s rising prominence as a global destination for asset managers and alternative investment firms.
With approximately USD 112 billion in assets under management as of 31 March 2026, OHA’s expansion highlights the increasing attractiveness of DIFC as a gateway to regional and international investment opportunities.
DIFC remains home to the region’s largest ecosystem of wealth and asset management firms, supported by a robust regulatory framework, world-class infrastructure, deep talent pool, and strategic location connecting key financial centres across East and West.
Commenting on the expansion, Declan Tiernan, Partner and Head of EMEA Client Coverage at OHA, said the firm’s new GCC presence represents a significant step in strengthening long-standing relationships across the region and enhancing its ability to serve investors through DIFC’s globally recognised financial ecosystem.
His Excellency Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority, said OHA’s arrival further reinforces Dubai’s position as a preferred destination for leading global alternative investment firms and highlights continued international confidence in DIFC’s regulatory environment, business infrastructure, and investment ecosystem.
OHA manages a broad range of credit strategies, including private credit, leveraged loans, high-yield bonds, distressed debt, collateralised loan obligations (CLOs), and multi-strategy credit investments, leveraging more than three decades of experience across global credit markets.
The announcement reflects DIFC’s ongoing success in attracting world-class financial institutions and advancing Dubai’s status as a global financial powerhouse. The emirate is currently ranked among the world’s leading financial centres, placing seventh globally and sixth worldwide for investment management.
