Janus Henderson, a leading global active asset manager, has announced the first close of its $300 million Shariah-compliant direct lending fund – the MENA Private Credit Fund IV – securing $125.5 million in investor capital commitments. The milestone marks a key step in the company’s strategic expansion in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, where the fund aims to bridge a significant $250 billion SME financing gap created by limited access to traditional bank lending.
Anchored by SIDF Investment Company (SIC), Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners, and Saudi Venture Capital Company (SVC), the fund is designed to provide customised, Shariah-compliant financing solutions for growth capital, refinancing, recapitalisations, and acquisitions.
“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. It also highlights the important role private credit plays in connecting capital with opportunity across dynamic growth markets,” said Ali Dibadj, CEO, Janus Henderson Investors.
The MENA Private Credit Fund IV represents the third fully Shariah-compliant fund managed by Janus Henderson Emerging Markets Private Investments, further cementing the company’s position as a leading provider of alternative financing solutions in emerging markets.
The second close is expected by the end of 2025, with the final close scheduled for mid-2026. The fund will offer investors access to private credit opportunities that combine the resilience of private credit with Shariah principles, while seeking attractive cash yields and competitive total returns.
“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 the confidence that their capital is working responsibly and effectively,” said Sikander Ahmed, Head of MENA Private Credit and Senior Executive Officer of Janus Henderson Emerging Market Private Investments.
