Richard Caring has divested a controlling interest in his prominent UK hospitality portfolio—encompassing The Ivy Collection and Annabel’s private club—to an affiliate of Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan’s holding company. The transaction brings major international backing to the group responsible for London establishments like Sexy Fish and Scott’s.

Diafa, the Abu Dhabi-based entity, invested more than £1bn to secure the majority share. Caring, the veteran hospitality mogul, retains the role of executive chair and will drive the group's next expansion phase alongside Diafa’s leadership, which includes former LVMH Asia chair Ravi Thakran.

This acquisition significantly bolsters Diafa’s existing hospitality footprint, which already features Zuma and Roka via the Azumi Group, aligning with IHC’s rapid diversification strategy across many sectors. Caring’s complex offshore ownership structure, involving Jersey and BVI vehicles, is now superseded by direct control from the influential UAE entity.

Sheikh Tahnoon, who also advises the UAE on national security and spearheads AI initiatives via G42, injects substantial capital into a portfolio known for its high-end London appeal. The deal formalizes earlier reports suggesting interest from Sheikh Tahnoon’s investment arm in the acclaimed restaurant empire.