The UAE’s Arada expands in Australia with the acquisition of Roberts Co, marking a pivotal moment in its mission to amplify its global footprint. This strategic move not only enhances Arada’s influence in the Australian market but also solidifies its commitment to fostering economic ties between the UAE and Australia. By acquiring the New South Wales division of Roberts Co, Arada is positioned to leverage new opportunities arising from this expansion.
Arada, a UAE-based master developer, has successfully acquired Roberts Co’s operations in New South Wales. This acquisition signifies a critical advancement in Arada’s international growth strategy.
The financial deal includes an immediate infusion of AED 47 million, ensuring the continuity of 120 direct jobs and safeguarding the employment of over 600 ancillary workers within Sydney’s construction supply chain.
“This acquisition reflects our strong belief in Roberts Co’s people, projects, and performance, and will help us deliver our future projects in Australia with greater control and cost efficiencies, as well as reduced risk,” stated Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada.
“We will now invest significantly in the company to bring it to new markets and sectors, including the UAE, and look forward to delivering on our shared vision for high-quality, community-focused development,” he added.
Arada has allocated up to AED 235 million to facilitate Roberts Co’s long-term expansion into new sectors and markets, with ambitions to generate annual revenues of AED 2.3 billion by 2028.
UAE-Australia Economic Partnership Strengthens
Ridwaan Jadwat, Australia’s Ambassador to the UAE, remarked, “This acquisition highlights the growing depth of the Australia-UAE relationship, underpinned by the recently signed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. It is a strong example of how closer ties between our two nations are delivering tangible benefits to our communities, supporting sustainable development, and fostering long-term economic growth.”
“The acquisition of Roberts Co’s New South Wales business by Arada demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with Australia, which aligns with the opportunities created through the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement,” he noted.
“This strategic move not only reinforces the strong economic partnership between our countries but also reflects our shared vision for enhancing people-to-people ties as well as for innovation,” added Fahad Obaid Altaffag, UAE Ambassador to Australia.
The acquisition guarantees that ongoing work will proceed smoothly across four major Sydney projects currently in development. These projects include two schools, a residential complex, and a children’s hospital.
To maintain stability, essential leadership figures from Roberts Co, including Executive Chairman George Kostas—formerly CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Properties—are set to retain their positions following the transaction.
Founded in 2017, Roberts Co. has established a reputation for delivering some of New South Wales’ most challenging and prominent construction projects. The company operates in various sectors, including health, education, hospitality, commercial, residential, industrial, life sciences, and defense.
Since launching its Sydney office in 2024, Arada has announced AED 6 billion in planned developments in Australia, which encompass extensive residential communities across Sydney’s inner-west, south-west, and Hills Shire areas.
These initiatives are projected to yield 2,500 new homes, with sales and construction expected to commence by the fourth quarter of 2025.
Established in 2017 and headquartered in the UAE, Arada is dedicated to creating spaces that foster healthier and more meaningful lifestyles. Its broad spectrum of projects includes property development, education, hospitality, and retail.
Arada has introduced several flagship projects in the UAE, including Aljada and Masaar, and has made its Australian debut in 2024. Beyond its core developments, Arada also operates an array of complementary brands, including gyms, retail outlets, and various social initiatives.