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 DUBAI, United Arab Emirates,  June 25, 2012  /PRNewswire/ -- Saffar, a  MiddleEast  and  North Africa  ("MENA")-focused financial services and investmentgroup, has announced the sale of Zawya Limited, the leading MENA online businessintelligence platform, to Thomson Reuters, the world's foremost provider ofinformation for businesses and professionals.  With the sale to Thomson Reuters, Saffar's investment in Zawya becomes one ofthe most successful internet and media investments in the MENA region. SinceSaffar's acquisition of a majority stake in the company, Zawya has grown from astart-up to become the leading MENA business information platform, reflectingSaffar's ability to identify compelling regional investment opportunities.Saffar created sustainable value in the business by expanding the businessmodel, forming strategic partnerships and institutionalising the corporatestructure.  Zawya is today a globally recognised Middle Eastern brand due to the business'comprehensive content, innovative products and regional analysis. Zawya enablesover 750,000 unique visitors per month to find and connect with the bestbusiness and investment opportunities in the region.  Yousef Al-Quraishi, Chairman of Saffar, said, "The scope of this sale and thequality of the parties involved underscores the value that can be created wheninstitutional support, founding vision and strong management come together. Thesale of Zawya to Thomson Reuters is a testament to the fact that Zawya hasbecome an unsurpassed regional platform."  Ihsan Jawad, Vice Chairman of Zawya, said, "As entrepreneurs, we are proud tohave founded and built one of the leading internet companies in the  MiddleEast. We are also pleased that our focus on quality from day one has made Zawyafit for a global player like Thomson Reuters."  Arma Partners acted as exclusive financial adviser to Saffar, and SNR Denton andMaples & Calder acted as legal advisers to Saffar on the sale of Zawya.  About SaffarFounded in 2001, Saffar encompasses investments in financial services andtelecommunications across the MENA region. Investments include Credit SuisseSaudi Arabia, Kalaam Telecom and Saffar Capital Limited. Saffar Capital Limitedis regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority and is licensed toarrange credit or deals in investments, advise on financial products or creditand manage assets.  SOURCE  SaffarRima Kadi Aboualwan, Director, Saffar, +971 4 373 5777,rkadi@saffar-capital.com