In a move that signals a significant shift in the global luxury hospitality landscape, Diyafa, the Abu Dhabi-based investment platform, has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in the prestigious hospitality portfolio of Richard Caring. The deal, finalized on April 11, 2026, brings some of London’s most iconic social landmarks under the umbrella of a major Emirati investment vehicle al-Ain News.
Diyafa operates as an associate company within the portfolio of International Holding Company (IHC), a powerhouse investment firm headquartered in Abu Dhabi. By securing a majority interest in Richard Caring’s empire, Diyafa is aggressively expanding its footprint in the high-complete dining and private members’ club sectors, leveraging Caring’s reputation as one of the most influential figures in the global restaurant industry Emirates News Agency (WAM).
The acquisition is not merely a financial transaction but a strategic partnership designed to scale luxury concepts globally. While Diyafa provides the capital and institutional backing of IHC, Richard Caring will remain central to the operation, continuing his role as Executive Chairman to ensure the vision and leadership of the portfolio remain intact CNN Business Arabic.
A Portfolio of London’s Most Exclusive Landmarks
The scope of this acquisition covers a diverse array of high-profile assets that define the luxury social scene in the United Kingdom. The deal includes “The Ivy Brasseries” group, a household name in upscale dining, as well as the Caprice Holdings portfolio. The latter consists of some of the most sought-after dining destinations in London, including Scotts, Sexy Fish, and Novikov Emirates News Agency (WAM).
Beyond restaurants, the deal encompasses a collection of the world’s most exclusive private members’ clubs under the Berkeley’s Clubs umbrella. This includes the legendary Annabel’s, along with George, Harry’s Bar, and Mark’s Club. These establishments are renowned for their exclusivity and high-net-worth clientele, making them prime assets for an investment platform focused on luxury hospitality al-Ain News.
Strategic Global Expansion Plans
The partnership between Diyafa and Richard Caring is specifically geared toward a new phase of international growth. A primary objective of this collaboration is the upcoming launch of Annabel’s in New York City, marking a significant leap for the private club’s brand into the American market CNN Business Arabic.
In addition to the New York venture, the group intends to pursue further international expansion for the Scotts, Sexy Fish, and Novikov brands. This suggests a strategy of exporting the “London luxury” experience to other global financial and cultural hubs Emirates News Agency (WAM).
Closer to home in the UK, The Ivy Brasseries group is expected to continue its expansion plans throughout 2026. The company is also exploring the possibility of opening new locations in the United States and other international markets to capitalize on the brand’s global appeal Emirates News Agency (WAM).
What Which means for the Luxury Hospitality Sector
This acquisition reflects a broader trend of sovereign-linked investment vehicles from the Gulf region acquiring trophy assets in Western capitals. By integrating these iconic brands into the IHC ecosystem, Diyafa is positioning itself as a dominant player in the “experience economy,” where exclusivity and prestige are the primary drivers of value.
For the stakeholders involved, the arrangement offers a balanced approach to growth: Caring retains executive control over the creative and operational direction, while Diyafa provides the financial infrastructure necessary for rapid, large-scale global scaling. This minimizes the risk of brand dilution that often accompanies large corporate acquisitions of boutique luxury brands.
Key Takeaways of the Acquisition
- Majority Ownership: Diyafa, an associate of IHC, now holds the majority stake in Richard Caring’s hospitality empire.
- Iconic Assets: The deal includes The Ivy Brasseries, Caprice Holdings (Scotts, Sexy Fish, Novikov), and Berkeley’s Clubs (Annabel’s, George, Harry’s Bar, Mark’s Club).
- Leadership: Richard Caring will continue to serve as Executive Chairman.
- US Market Entry: A planned opening of Annabel’s in New York is a priority for the new partnership.
- 2026 Outlook: Continued expansion of The Ivy Brasseries in the UK and exploration of new international sites.
As the group moves toward its 2026 targets, the next major milestone will be the official opening of the New York Annabel’s club and the announcement of new international sites for the Caprice Holdings portfolio. We invite our readers to share their thoughts on the globalization of luxury dining in the comments below.
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