UAE’s IHC Becomes Key Investor in Indian Snack Giant Haldirams

Business & Investments

UAE’s IHC Becomes Key Investor in Indian Snack Giant Haldirams

Haldirams, one of India's most iconic snack brands, has secured a major investment from Abu Dhabi’s International Holding Company (IHC), along with Alpha Wave Global, in a move that is expected to accelerate its expansion into international markets, particularly the Middle East and the US.

The financial backing from IHC and Alpha Wave Global marks a strategic step forward for Haldirams, strengthening its position as a global leader in ethnic snacks and ready-to-eat meals. The company has already established a strong presence in UAE supermarkets, catering to a vast Indian expatriate community and a growing consumer base appreciative of Indian flavors.

Haldirams' Global Growth Strategy

This latest investment is part of a broader financial restructuring plan that aims to enhance Haldirams' capabilities in product innovation, distribution, and market penetration. The brand’s expansion strategy has been gaining momentum, and with this fresh capital infusion, it is now well-positioned to scale operations across international markets.

A previous investment by Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund Temasek had valued Haldirams at $10 billion, underlining its dominance in the Indian packaged food industry.

Why IHC and Alpha Wave Global Invested in Haldirams

✅ Strong Consumer Loyalty – Haldirams enjoys a 90-year legacy and is one of India's most recognizable snack brands.
✅ Expanding Global Footprint – The company is already present in the UAE, the US, and other key markets, with plans for further growth.
✅ Strategic Fit for IHC – IHC has been expanding its investments in the agri-food sector, including a recent acquisition of Latin American food company Grupo Nutresa.
✅ Long-Term Growth Potential – Alpha Wave Global and IHC’s investment brings in "patient capital", ensuring sustained growth rather than short-term gains.

"We are excited to join hands with Haldirams, a brand that has set the standard for excellence in the ethnic Indian snacks industry," an IHC spokesperson stated.

Haldirams’ Expanding Presence in the UAE

In February, Haldirams announced the launch of one of the Gulf region’s largest saffron processing facilities in Dubai as part of a partnership with the Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA). The plant can process 30 tonnes of saffron, with plans to scale up to 100 tonnes in the next five years.

This investment aligns with Haldirams’ broader vision to establish itself as a global leader in Indian packaged foods while expanding its market dominance in the Middle East.

"The partnership with IHC and Alpha Wave Global represents long-term support for Haldirams' growth plans," said a Haldirams spokesperson. "With this backing, we are well-positioned to enhance our product offerings and expand into new markets, bringing the authentic taste of India to households worldwide."

With its growing international footprint, backing from major investors, and strong product portfolio, Haldirams is set to redefine the global Indian snack market and cement its presence as a household name across the Middle East and beyond.