The UAE accounted for approximately 80.9 percent of all disclosed mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deal value in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) during the first half of 2026, according to a report by Apolonia Capital published via Khaleej Times and Menafn. Disclosed transaction value involving the UAE reached $52.6 billion out of a total regional figure of $65.1 billion.
The UAE also led the region by deal volume, recording 131 transactions out of 192 total deals closed across the GCC, representing roughly 68.2 percent of activity. Although regional deal volume decreased by approximately 18 percent, total regional deal value expanded by roughly 12 percent, reflecting a shift toward fewer but larger transactions.
Romil Radia, Valuations, Performance & Restructuring Leader at PwC Middle East, stated that the first half of 2026 tested regional deal resilience, adding that activity moderated while capital became more selective and buyers prioritized assets with clearer strategic value.
In line with market consolidation, UAE-based professional services and audit firms Evas Constantin and Mac & Ross announced a strategic merger to establish CPAC IMEA under the CPAC Global international network, covering India, the Middle East, and Africa. Vijay Mohan, Managing Partner of CPAC Global, stated that the merger combines expertise and resources to expand international reach.
The restructuring in professional services comes as compliance requirements rise across the UAE. According to the UAE Ministry of Economy, registered accounting firms grew to 396 and chartered accountants reached 1,103 by late 2025. Driven by the 9 percent corporate tax and VAT regulations, the UAE's finance and accounting outsourcing market reached $663.6 million in 2024, while Fortune Business Insights estimates the GCC auditing services market will reach $7.09 billion in 2025.
Sources
- Menafn · 2026-10-29
