There will be select activity in the private equity sector for the remaining three quarters of 2009, said chief executive of private equity firm Amwal AlKhaleej. Ammar Al Khudairy said the private market has had lower valuations historically compared to the public markets. "Today, the reverse is true, which indicates sellers have not readjusted valuations to reflect the current market conditions. However, due to the depressed valuations in the markets, there are new potential investment opportunities… with an active role for private equity firms." "Although interesting from a financial perspective, taking public companies private will be somewhat difficult to execute in the key markets in the Middle East given the regulatory framework that tend to strongly protect retail investors." "For the private equity sector, 2009 will be a year to focus on existing investments and portfolio companies. In the medium to long-term, Amwal AlKhaleej is optimistic about future growth prospects given the unique dynamics of the region. Capital surpluses held by most regional governments will see continued investments in the local economies throughout 2009," he said. Keep up with the latest business news from the region with the Emirates Business 24|7 daily newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter, please click here .