Lunate, an Abu Dhabi-based global investment manager, has entered into a collaboration with International Holding Company (IHC), an investment company focused on building dynamic value networks, to explore enrolling IHC and its portfolio companies in Lunate’s Ghaf Benefits platform.
Ghaf Benefits is an alternative end-of-service benefits fund platform. The initiative falls in line with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization’s (MoHRE) efforts to enhance workplace benefits in the UAE. The platform empowers employees to drive financial growth and security, while streamlining benefits management for them.
It enables employers to channel their employees’ end-of-service gratuity into funds that are licensed by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) and regulated by both the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization and SCA.
Managed by Lunate, the funds enable employees to earn potential investment returns upon the completion of their employment and provide them with a secure financial future.
To enhance employee well-being and financial security, under the MoU, IHC will explore extending Ghaf Benefits’ services to its employees and those within its portfolio companies.
Ghaf Benefits will offer a selection of six investment funds covering both conventional and Shariah-compliant investment options to align with individual risk-return preferences, covering capital protection, conservative, and balanced strategies.
Furthermore, both employers and employees will have the ability in the future to supplement fixed contributions with additional voluntary contributions.
Syed Basar Shueb CEO – IHC
“At IHC, we are committed to adopting forward-thinking solutions that enhance employee well-being and financial security. Our collaboration with Lunate and the Ghaf Benefits platform aligns with our vision of fostering a workplace that prioritizes long-term financial empowerment for our people. By exploring this initiative, we aim to provide our employees and portfolio companies with access to a structured and secure benefits framework that supports their financial goals while reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global leader in workplace innovation.”
Seif Fikry, Managing Partner at Lunate, added that, “We are pleased to enter into an MoU with IHC, a global investment leader. IHC’s intent to provide its employees with a rewarding solution to end-of-service benefits speaks to the strength of the Ghaf Benefits plan and to IHC’s commitment to a people-first culture. We are aligned in our vision to provide UAE-based employees with the flexibility they seek as they build a robust financial foundation for their future.”
The UAE’s Alternative End-of-Service Benefits Scheme was first approved by a Cabinet Resolution in 2023 as a voluntary scheme designed to provide UAE employees with enhanced financial security. It offers greater control over savings plans, aligning with individual financial goals. The scheme also strives to strengthen the UAE’s position as a prime destination for international talent.
