This follows the start of a new European alliance after its recent merger with Independent Risk Solutions (IRS), a brokerage firm based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

The merger, announced in November 2009, brought together Insure Direct's expanding footprint in the Middle East and IRS's strength in high net worth areas such as marine and energy-related industries in the Netherlands.

Kenneth Maw, CEO of Insure Direct, said: "We are now in a position to define new products that our expanded operational sectors demand. The merger with IRS was well timed to sustain the momentum of Insure Direct's growth pace. It has brought IRS BV's considerable technical sector knowledge, global client base and an independent corporate infrastructure, adding strategic depth to Insure Direct's growth plans."

Independent Risk Solutions delivers independent broking services and solutions to clients. It provides end-to-end insurance coverage to the marine industry, the oil and gas sector, and major on- and off-shore construction projects, in addition to offering liability insurances.