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• Demonstrates sustained profitability amidst challenging market conditions
• Profitability driven by restructured leasing business and increased income from its maritime business and financial advisory services

Waha Capital, the Abu Dhabi-based diversified investment holding company listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, today reported a 15% increase in unaudited net profits for the 12-month period ending December 31, 2010. Profitability resulted from the company’s continued growth and improved performance across the business units, derived from restructuring activities, consolidation of operations and increased income generation in various areas.

Net profits reached AED 249 million, compared to AED 217 million in 2009, while return on equity increased to 12.2 per cent, from 11.6 per cent in 2009.

“The company’s very strong 2010 results, even during a year that contained considerable challenges, further demonstrate the company’s solid foundation, the value of its diversification strategy and the sustainable business strategy outlined for each operating unit. Building on these results, achieved even in a difficult year, we expect to continue along a very strong growth pattern in the forthcoming period that will be reflected in increasing value, not only to our shareholders but also to the local and regional economy,” said H.E. Hussain Jasim Al Nowais, Chairman of Waha Capital.

The rise in net profits was driven mainly by the restructuring of the company’s leasing business in which Waha Capital took a 20 per cent stake in the world’s leading independent aircraft leasing company AerCap in a deal that also saw Waha sell its 50 per cent stake in the two companies’ joint venture AerVenture, as well as 40 per cent of Waha’s leasing portfolio.

Additionally, the company boosted income from its maritime business through its growing fleet of support vessels and its 49 per cent ownership in GMMOS. In 2010, the company also increased fee income generated through several advisory mandates related to the arranging and financing of assets on behalf of various clients.

“The year 2010 has been extremely positive for Waha Capital, and we are very pleased to be able to report sustained profitability amidst challenging conditions globally,” said Salem Rashid Al Noaimi, CEO of Waha Capital. “Our performance this year is testament to our business strategy and the entrepreneurial spirit of our people, while our stability also is based on the strength of our shareholder base and the support we have received from various stakeholders.”

Reflecting the company’s strong business performance in 2010, earnings per share increased to AED 0.14 in 2010 compared to AED 0.13 in 2009 on an adjusted basis, while return on assets reached 6.2 per cent compared to 4.8 per cent in 2009.

These results were announced following a meeting of the company’s Board of Directors in Abu Dhabi chaired by Al Nowais. The meeting was attended by members of the board and the executive management of the company.

About Waha Capital

Waha Capital is a leading Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange-listed and Abu Dhabi-based diversified investment holding company. Waha Capital’s strategy is to drive multi-sector business growth and diversification through acquisitions, joint ventures and creation of new business. Its current business portfolio includes big-ticket leasing, financial services, maritime, oil and gas, and real estate development. Waha Capital's main institutional shareholder is Mubadala Development Company.