JBR’s new UAE office offers strategy and M&A services to Gulf’s maritime & offshore sector
JBR, a Benelux-based strategy and M&A consulting firm, has expanded into the UAE to serve the rapidly growing maritime and offshore sector across the Gulf region.
Established in 1984, JBR is a Dutch consultancy specialising in three core areas: strategy, corporate finance and mergers & acquisitions, and restructuring. Headquartered in the Netherlands with an additional office in Belgium, the firm focuses on six key sectors – one of which, maritime and offshore, now forms the foundation for its expansion into the GCC.
“The UAE is a strategic hub for global maritime trade and offshore operations,” said Ronald van Rijn, Managing Partner at JBR. “With our new Dubai office, we are bringing more than 40 years of sector expertise to clients operating in the region.”
JBR’s entry into the UAE builds on an existing track record in the Middle East. Over the years, the firm has advised on several regional deals, including the acquisition of UAE-based Horizon Group by Boskalis, and more recently, the transaction between Seacontractors and Jifmar.
“With five mandates currently running in the UAE, it was a natural moment to establish a permanent presence,” said Van Rijn. He added that the move reflects the GCC’s growing influence in global maritime and energy markets, which is driving increasing demand for specialised advisory services. “Many of our clients are turning their focus to the Middle East.”
Unlike many larger generalist consultancies, JBR distinguishes itself through a deep sector focus and a strong record of complex, strategic engagements in maritime and offshore. Its clients include ship owners and operators, tug and offshore service providers, terminal and port operators, shipbuilders, system integrators, ecosystem suppliers, and investors.
“This move marks a new phase in the growth of our Maritime & Offshore practice and underscores our position as a trusted advisor in the industry,” said Rick ter Maat, Partner and Head of Maritime & Offshore at JBR. “From our Dubai office, we will support clients locally with strategic decisions, mergers and acquisitions, and vessel financing, while building new partnerships across the region.”
Martin Helweg
The new Dubai hub is led by Martin Helweg, who joins JBR as a Partner. A seasoned maritime executive, Helweg’s international career spans Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. He previously served as CEO of P&O Maritime Logistics, President of the International Support Vessel Owners Association (ISOA), and Board Member of the Emirates Shipping Association.
Prior to that, he held senior leadership roles at Topaz Energy and Marine and Svitzer. He has extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, market entries, and corporate transformations.
“JBR is an industry leader combining international experience with deep knowledge of the maritime and energy markets,” said Helweg. “Together with our extensive relationships and new Dubai office, we are uniquely positioned to help clients create sustainable value in a rapidly changing world.”
A bridge between continents
Beyond serving the Middle East, JBR’s Dubai office will act as a strategic bridge between Europe and Asia. “Many of our clients are expanding their focus eastward,” said Van Rijn. “Our presence in the UAE strengthens the link between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.”
To support clients globally, JBR is a member of REACH, an international network of M&A consultancies present in 30 countries. Like JBR, REACH members specialise in mid-market transactions for corporate clients, family-owned businesses, and private equity investors, providing access to worldwide expertise and opportunities.
