Tabreed CEO Signals Aggressive Expansion Plans Following $1 Billion Acquisition
With strong financial backing and a strategic partnership with CVC DIF, Tabreed eyes ambitious growth—starting with major district cooling opportunities at Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport.
Abu Dhabi-based utility eyes strategic growth with CVC DIF partnership and future opportunities at Al Maktoum International Airport
Abu Dhabi, UAE — National Central Cooling Company PJSC, better known as Tabreed, is gearing up for its next phase of growth with a clear focus on strategic acquisitions and infrastructure expansion. CEO Khalid Al Marzooqi has confirmed that the utility giant is “deep-pocketed” and fully prepared for further deals following its high-profile AED 3.8 billion (approximately USD $1 billion) acquisition of PAL Cooling Holding.
The acquisition, announced Tuesday, is in partnership with global infrastructure investment firm CVC DIF and marks one of the region’s largest recent investments in district cooling infrastructure. The transaction underscores Tabreed’s confidence in long-term regional demand for sustainable and efficient cooling solutions.
“We see CVC DIF as the right and strong partners for our next phase,” Al Marzooqi stated. “Together, we’re not only building scale, but also aligning on long-term value creation and infrastructure resilience.”
Al Marzooqi also revealed that Tabreed is actively evaluating new opportunities, including potential district cooling projects linked to the ongoing expansion of Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport, set to become the world’s largest airport once completed.
“This is just the beginning,” he noted. “Our acquisition strategy is not just about size; it’s about strengthening our position in critical infrastructure that supports the UAE’s long-term economic and environmental goals.”
Tabreed, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, is a leading provider of energy-efficient district cooling solutions across the GCC. With over two decades of experience, the company has played a pivotal role in supporting sustainable urban development through centralized cooling systems that serve key assets, including airports, commercial towers, hospitals, and universities.
The partnership with CVC DIF is expected to amplify Tabreed’s access to global capital and technical expertise, enabling it to accelerate its regional and potentially international expansion plans.
As governments across the region ramp up climate-conscious infrastructure spending and cities prepare for rising energy demands, district cooling — with its lower energy consumption and emissions — is emerging as a core pillar of urban planning. Tabreed’s strategic moves signal a readiness to lead this transformation.
With a robust balance sheet, experienced leadership, and a clear growth agenda, Tabreed is positioning itself as a dominant force in shaping the sustainable infrastructure landscape of the future.