"Ma’an" – The Arabic Word for "Together" – Unlocking Investment with UAE Family Offices 👇
As we approach 2025, UAE Family Offices are evolving, growing in complexity and size.
For those targeting UAE Family Offices, I want to emphasize the power of one word in your pitches, strategy, and vision: Ma’an.
What Does Ma’an Mean?
Ma’an translates to together, with, and even jointly. It reflects unity, collaboration, and shared purpose—values deeply ingrained in the culture and mindset of UAE Family Offices.
If you’ve spent time in the UAE, you’ll notice that many family offices operate through joint ventures or partnerships. These models thrive on working together for mutual success. But for those raising capital for a holding company in the USA or Hong Kong—or fund managers seeking LP commitments—a joint venture might not seem like the right fit. I understand.
Why Ma’an Matters
The concept of “together” transcends its literal meaning. It embodies interconnectedness, shared experiences, and mutual progress. In a market as competitive as the UAE—where thousands pitch to family offices weekly—embracing Ma’an could set you apart.
It’s about finding common ground. For example:
A fund manager setting up a local structure under a Middle East brand, co-creating a regional product with the family office, is more likely to resonate than a distant, overseas fund reporting quarterly.
A personal, relationship-focused approach aligns more with Emirati values than a purely transactional one.
Within Emirati culture, teamwork and collaboration are the backbone of success. Family groups share a collective mission: to make the UAE the best place to work and live. As expats, we bring unique skills and perspectives—but achieving success often means finding ways to thrive together.
The Deeper Meaning of Ma’an
Interestingly, Ma’an stems from the Arabic verb ma’aa, meaning "to melt" or "thaw." At first, this may seem contradictory. How can something that implies separation also mean unity?
In Arabic, these concepts coexist fluidly. Melting isn’t just about dissolving—it’s about transformation. When something melts, it changes form and comes together in a new way.
This metaphor is profound for those looking to collaborate with UAE family offices. You might be the person or product that comes together with a family office in a unique, malleable way—creating something entirely new, built on shared values and mutual goals.
Finding Your Ma’an
Whether it’s co-developing a project, building a local presence, or simply rethinking how you approach partnerships, the idea of together can unlock new opportunities.
In the UAE, success isn’t just about the what—it’s about the how. And when you embrace Ma’an, you’re not just pitching a vision; you’re building a future together.
Family Office Summit Abu Dhabi
4th December 2024
Sign up here: www.familyofficesummit.ae
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