Ruya Partners’ $25mln private credit investment in GymNation, paves the way for expansion into Saudi Arabia

Ruya’s private credit investment supported GymNation’ s management-led buyout of all equity previously owned by JD Gyms, a FTS100 publicly listed conglomerate. The deal was also supported by a private equity investment from Tricap Investments, a diversified principal investment group with offices in Washington D.C. and Dubai, specializing in direct and fund investments and private equity transactions.

GymNation, a UAE homegrown brand has experienced rapid growth, expanding from a single gym in 2017 to become the leading gym operator in the UAE, with 12 gyms and over 60,000 members. The company’s next growth phase primarily focuses on its plans to expand into Saudi Arabia, where it is already set to open six locations within the first half of 2024. GymNation ‘s growth plans include relocating senior management and opening its primary office in Riyadh.

“As lifelong gym members, one thing became clear during our due diligence: not all gyms are created equal. At Ruya, we’ve been deeply impressed by GymNation’s differentiated high-quality budget offering, executed consistently across the UAE by its exceptional management team that lives and breathes the company’s vision of democratizing health and fitness across the GCC. Credit goes to the company’s founders, Loren, Frank, and Ant, who have established an inclusive culture with a well-aligned and highly motivated management team. After establishing itself as the clear leader in UAE, we are excited to support the company in its next growth phase as it brings the same level of excellence into KSA’s fitness market.” said Rashid Siddiqi, Founding Partner of Ruya Partners.

Loren Holland, founder and CEO of GymNation, commented, “Ruya’s financing was not only critical for us to close the management buy-out, it was also structured in a manner that took into account our growth plans. They understood our business very well, worked with Tricap and us very constructively, and delivered their financing solution within a tight timeline.”

“Regional investors continue to express their growing appetite to back home-grown brands like GymNation, to benefit from favorable mid-market demographics and the evolving health & wellness landscape in the GCC.” Added Omar AlYawer, Partner at Ruya Partners.