October 18/Dubai/Menafn -- Carlyle Group's managing director and the executive in charge of the firm's Dubai office, Firas Nasir, said that by the end of 2011, the private equity firm would buy a food processing company in Saudi Arabia, reported Arab News.

Nasir added that the company invested in General Lighting Co., Saudi Arabia's largest lighting fixtures manufacturer and supplier, planned to ink more deals in the Gulf region.

He also said that four years ago, the U.S. private equity company which manages about $153 billion of assets globally, raised $500 million for its debut fund in the Middle East and North Africa region.

It is worth noting that Carlyle Group preferred to invest in Saudia Arabia since the country offered a clear exit route via initial public offerings (IPOs).

 From the October 18, 2011, Prepared Foods' Daily News.