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International Holding Company confirmed Fount Trust as its ultimate parent in a statement released on September 21, 2026. The Abu Dhabi-listed investment firm detailed how the establishment of the trust creates a framework for building an institution that generates value across generations. IHC stressed that Royal Group will continue to operate and fulfil its role in the ownership structure while the legal change sits above it. The announcement explicitly stated that the adjustment leaves ultimate beneficial ownership, daily operations and overall corporate strategy untouched.
Pal Group of Companies continues as the majority shareholder of IHC under the revised chain. Royal Group in turn maintains its majority stake in Pal Group of Companies. Fount Trust assumes the position of ultimate parent above Royal Group, according to the details provided by IHC.
Syed Basar Shueb, chief executive of IHC, set out the reasoning for the move. “Our responsibility is to build an institution capable of creating value over generations. That requires clear responsibilities and an ownership framework that can endure as people and circumstances change. The establishment of Fount Trust provides a framework for long-term stewardship, while Royal Group continues to operate and fulfil its role within the ownership structure.” Shueb’s comments underscored the importance of continuity for a business with extended investment horizons.
IHC manages a portfolio of more than 1,300 subsidiaries and 86 joint ventures across over 41 countries, according to company data. The group reported revenue of $16.4 billion and net income of $7.5 billion for 2023, with total assets standing at $455 billion that year. Forbes Middle East placed IHC as the second largest listed company in the region with a market value of $239.9 billion in its 2025 ranking.
Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan chairs the company, which was founded in 1998 and has expanded into one of the Gulf’s leading diversified investment vehicles. Significant asset transfers from Royal Group in prior years contributed to sharp valuation growth between 2019 and 2024, industry reports indicate. The latest ownership clarification aligns with IHC’s focus on sustainable expansion across healthcare, real estate, financial services, technology and additional sectors.
The restructuring does not result in any change to the person or people who ultimately own or control IHC, the company said in the announcement. This ensures stability in governance and decision-making processes as the conglomerate pursues global opportunities. IHC’s statement highlighted that such a framework supports consistent ownership for businesses operating with long investment horizons.
