Driving value creation through strategic M&A advisory
Customized risk solutions driving resilient governance
Transforming businesses with effective implementation of strategy and technology
Optimized tax strategies that maximize shareholder value
About Us
ARDENT is a GCC focused advisory firm, operating from offices in Abu Dhabi, ADGM, Dubai, and Riyadh. Over the years, ARDENT has played a pivotal role in delivering value and business growth to its clients. The firm’s partners and directors bring over 300 years of cumulative advisory experience from Big 4 professional firms — combining international expertise with deep local knowledge.
Our Vision
To be the trusted advisory partner delivering practical, high‑impact solutions that drive growth and value for our clients across the GCC.
Our Values
Passion for delivering excellence with integrity, while building trust and mutual respect with the clients and communities we serve.
Expert guidance across Transactions, Risk, Management Consulting & Tax
UAE Leadership
Our UAE leadership team draws on decades of regional expertise, guiding organizations across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and ADGM with insight and integrity.
Sharad Bhandari
Managing Partner
Sashikanth Ramakrishnan
Partner, Head of Advisory
Nirbhay Vaidya
Partner, Head of Tax & Risk Advisory
Nikhil Sancheti
Partner, Transaction Advisory
Rajesh Prasad
Partner, Management Consulting
KSA Leadership
Our KSA leadership team brings global perspective and local understanding, helping businesses in the Kingdom align with national transformation goals.
Sashikanth Ramakrishnan
Partner, Head of Advisory
Abdulaziz Abdullah Alnaim
Advisory Board Member
David Leahy
Resident Partner
Featured Insights
Effective Use of Generative AI by Internal Audit Functions
Generative AI is rapidly shifting from hype to practical application, and internal audit functions cannot afford to stay on the sidelines.
AI in GCC Banking: From Pilots to Platforms
In Part 1, we explored the conundrum GCC banks face: plenty of AI pilots, but few that truly scale.
Turning hashtag Governance into a Catalyst for Growth
Years of frequent ownership changes had left behind a blurred structure, unclear responsibilities, and a lack of vision at the top within a recently acquired company.
Financial Due Diligence: Turns Risk into Opportunity
Financial Due Diligence (FDD) is a critical foundation for successful deals.
AI in GCC Banking: A Shifting Conundrum
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping global banking — and GCC banks are no exception.
Value creation by a Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Too often, internal audit is seen as a routine compliance function—focused on ticking boxes and checking controls. But what if we viewed it as a strategic enabler?
Successful System Selection
A successful IT system selection is more than a checklist — it’s where strategy meets execution.
When Finance and Digital Strategy Work Together
Finance transformation is no longer just about automating reports or cutting costs — it’s a business-led, digitally enabled journey.
Your Strategic Partner in M&A and Corporate Finance
At ARDENT Advisory & Accounting, we are proud to be a trusted partner for M&A and Corporate Finance Advisory across the GCC.