British construction giant Laing O’Rourke is seeking a buyer for its Middle East operations after five decades of delivering major UAE landmarks, including Atlantis The Palm and Ski Dubai
DUBAI: British construction company Laing O’Rourke is preparing for a potential Middle East exit after 50 years in the region. The company has appointed Dubai-based Lumina Capital Advisors to find a buyer for its regional operations. The proposed sale could mark the end of a major chapter in the UAE’s construction industry.
The company confirmed the decision on November 11, citing strong regional growth and a shift towards major infrastructure projects in the United Kingdom and Australia. However, it has not announced a buyer or a timeline for completing the sale.
Builder Behind Dubai’s Iconic Landmarks
Laing O’Rourke played a major role in the UAE’s construction boom. Its portfolio includes Atlantis The Palm, Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates, Al Raha Beach in Abu Dhabi and projects linked to Expo 2020 Dubai. More recently, the contractor expanded into the region’s growing data centre sector. It delivered major facilities for clients including Khazna and Equinix.
Industry reports indicate that the Middle East business generates approximately £266 million ($350 million) in annual turnover. It employs around 204 people, supported by another 620 trade specialists.
Why Is Laing O’Rourke Leaving the Middle East?
The proposed sale comes as the wider group focuses on long-term infrastructure opportunities in the UK and Australia. These include the Sizewell C nuclear power station, the UK’s Great Grid Upgrade and New Hospitals Programme. In Australia, the company is involved in projects linked to the AUKUS programme and the Olympic Games.
Group Chief Executive Cathal O’Rourke said the company’s strong regional reputation made this the right time to find a new owner. The group also reported a record order book worth £17.2 billion in its latest financial results.
Impact to Expect
The proposed sale could bring new ownership to one of the UAE’s established construction businesses. It may also reshape the regional contractor market as international companies reassess their priorities. Laing O’Rourke has not disclosed an asking price or confirmed any potential buyers. Its Middle East operations remain under the company’s ownership while the search continues.
