In the dynamic business landscape of the UAE, where ambition fuels unprecedented growth, Ilir Halimi stands as a cornerstone of several of the subsidiaries of MNA Ventures, skillfully forging strategic partnerships and managing its clients in different parts of the conglomerate. Over the past four years, Ilir has solidified his role as a key figure within this unique conglomerate, often described as the “mother of everything” within its group structure. His journey reflects a relentless drive for opportunity and an exceptional ability to build authentic connections in the global business arena.
Ilir Halimi with Michael Huertas, Partner and Head of Financial Institutions Regulatory, PwC Europe
Ilir’s career began in his family’s business, where he honed his entrepreneurial instincts. Seeking new horizons, he ventured into the UAE’s fast-evolving market, joining OTC Business Services four years ago. There, he developed expertise in client engagement and business advisory. For the last two years, however, Ilir has taken on a pivotal role throughout multiple aspects for companies under the umbrella MNA Ventures, leading its strategic partnership and portfolio management efforts, while receiving personal guidance from Executive Director Mostafa Nasser Al-Rashed.
In this influential position, Ilir drives the formation of partnerships that bolster MNA Ventures’ diverse subsidiaries, including its real estate subsidiary Seventh Key and OTC Business Services. As a key relationship and portfolio manager, he ensures the group’s portfolio remains robust and aligned with its strategic vision. Ilir serves as the point of contact for MNA Ventures’ subsidiaries for engaging private banks, venture capitalists, law firms, and potential partners, opening doors across the group’s ecosystem. While he once managed direct client interactions at OTC Business Services, his role has evolved; he now facilitates initial connections and seamlessly transitions clients to the appropriate MNA Ventures entity, such as the legal team or Seventh Key, stepping back from ongoing client operations.
Ilir’s unique strength lies in his ability to bridge European and Middle Eastern business cultures. With a German background and deep roots in Middle Eastern tradition, he fosters partnerships grounded in faith, respect, and mutual transparency—values that build enduring trust essential for cross-border success. This cultural fluency, paired with sharp business acumen, enables MNA Ventures to guide international firms and high-net-worth individuals seamlessly into the UAE market and beyond.
Written in partnership with Tom White
