“Wealth
to us is not mere material for vainglory
but an opportunity for achievement.”
— Thucydides
Istithmar PJSC is a major investment holding company based in the United Arab Emirates. Launched in June 2003 with an initial investment capital of USD 2 Billion, it coordinates the appraisal and implementation of numerous entrepreneurial ventures.
Istithmar was originally created to centralize investments made by the Dubai Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, and entities operating under the common management (collectively referred to as the Group). This includes Nakheel Co.LLC (a real-estate development firm), Dubai Metals and Commodities Centre, and Tejari FZ LLC (an electronic marketplace). Capitalizing on the expertise of the Group, Istithmar aims to nurture projects in various sectors, including financial services, real estate, consumer, and industrial.
Istithmar acts as an initial business partner providing financial leverage to help establish chosen projects. In addition to providing financial capital, Istithmar also offers managerial excellence in business development, presenting a "single window of opportunity" for corporations and private investors.
As of 31 January, 2005 Istithmar's portfolio of investment was approximately USD 500 million.