Late last month, Blackstone announced its first inbound Gulf private equity deal since recent Middle East hostilities with a $250 million commitment. The firm unveiled a follow-on transaction days after a two-week US–Iran ceasefire, demonstrating confidence in deploying capital at scale despite missile threats to the UAE.

Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon emphasized unwavering support for Gulf operations and cited unchanged client ambitions, while Citigroup leadership also underscored the importance of its regional business. Executives from major banks view the Gulf as a vital market, leveraging local stability and sovereign partnerships.

Gulf sovereign wealth funds, collectively managing around $5 trillion, continued deploying billions into alternative assets, private credit and technology platforms during the conflict. These funds expect Wall Street firms to deepen regional presence through local offices, staffing and regular gatherings in exchange for funding.