Janus Henderson, the global active asset manager, has secured $125.5 million in first-close commitments for its $300 million MENA Private Credit Fund IV, a Shariah-compliant direct lending vehicle. The fund aims to bridge the region’s $250 billion SME financing gap with flexible, values-based credit solutions.
Anchored by SIDF Investment Company (SIC), Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners, and Saudi Venture Capital Company (SVC), the fund provides Shariah-compliant financing for growth, refinancing, recapitalization, and acquisition needs among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) underserved by traditional banking.
“The successful first close of this Shariah-compliant direct lending vehicle underscores our commitment to investors in the Middle East and the growing number of companies in the region seeking access to flexible, values-driven financing” said Ali Dibadj, CEO of Janus Henderson Investors. “It also highlights the important role private credit plays in connecting capital with opportunity across dynamic growth markets.”
The fund represents the third fully Shariah-compliant vehicle managed by Janus Henderson Emerging Markets Private Investments. It aims to deliver attractive cash yields and total returns while adhering to Islamic finance principles.
Sikander Ahmed, Head of MENA Private Credit and Senior Executive Officer at Janus Henderson Emerging Market Private Investments, said: “By combining Shariah principles with the resilience of private credit, we are opening new opportunities for businesses across the region to access long-term growth while giving investors confidence that their capital is working responsibly and effectively.”
A second close is targeted for late 2025, with final close expected by mid-2026. The fund provides institutional and regional investors access to private credit opportunities with a focus on risk-adjusted returns and regional diversification.
