IHC Acquires 80% Stake in Marlan Space: Expanding into Space Technology

IHC Acquires Stake in Marlan Space to Boost Space Tech Portfolio

International Holding Company (IHC) has agreed to acquire a stake in Marlan Space, an Abu Dhabi-based investor and operator in the space sector, according to a company announcement. The transaction is designed to broaden IHC's footprint into space technology and deep-tech fields, encompassing satellite infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and adjacent technologies.

Marlan Space focuses on space-related enterprises, with a portfolio that includes space systems, autonomous operations, and advanced computing. The firm established Orbitworks, a joint venture with the US company Loft Orbital, which it calls the Middle East's inaugural private space infrastructure venture. Orbitworks, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, is engaged in the development, construction, testing, and operation of satellite systems. Its primary initiative, Altair, is an Earth-observation satellite network that integrates optical, hyperspectral, thermal, infrared, and passive radio-frequency sensors, along with artificial intelligence and onboard data processing. Satellite assembly is taking place at Orbitworks' site in the Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD), where the initial Altair satellite has been finished and further units are in progress.

IHC Chief Executive Syed Basar Shueb remarked that space is gaining prominence in the global technology and infrastructure arena, with uses spanning communications, Earth observation, data, AI, and numerous other fields. He added that the acquisition secures IHC a role in the space economy while granting Marlan Space access to the group's capital and additional resources. Marlan Space CEO Hamdullah Mohib stated that the agreement would enable the company to enhance its capabilities and alliances and to seek prospects within the worldwide space economy. He observed that the deal occurs amid rising investment in the space industry, driven by projections of reduced launch expenses, heightened demand for satellite-derived data and services, and increased public funding for domestic space initiatives.

The Abu Dhabi conglomerate indicated that its investment in Marlan Space would bolster its current interests in artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and other technology sectors. It also intends to investigate ways to integrate satellite-based functions with its holdings in technology, data, and infrastructure.