MHA has agreed to acquire Moore Stephens’ UAE operations for £7.4m, marking a strategic push into the Middle East market.
The AIM-listed professional services firm will acquire two businesses, Moore Stephens LLC and Moore Stephens Consulting LLC, which generated £6.5m revenue in 2025. The deal reflects MHA’s strategy of pursuing selective cross-border opportunities to strengthen its international footprint.
MS UAE, established in 1999, operates from Dubai with branches across Abu Dhabi, ADGM, JAFZA, Sharjah and Hamriyah Free Zone. All three partners, led by Managing Partner Farad Lakdawala, will remain with the 95-strong team following completion.
MHA hopes MS UAE to capitalise on the continued influx of high-net-worth individuals, family offices and international businesses relocating to the region.
The £7.4m consideration will be split equally between cash and new MHA shares priced at 154.5p. An initial payment of £6.1m will be made at completion, with the remainder following agreement of completion accounts.
“Strategic M&A continues to be a key enabler of our growth aspirations,” said Rakesh Shaunak, CEO of MHA.
“Following the acquisition of BTSEE, the intended acquisition of MS UAE is another step forward in building a larger organisation and an international platform that enhances client service, strengthens our sector capabilities and creates opportunities for our people.
“MS UAE is a high-quality, well-established practice with strong cultural alignment, and we look forward to updating the market as we progress toward completion.”