Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad moves closer to private ownership

Al-Ittihad’s proposed sale has entered an advanced stage, with two consortiums submitting bids as the Saudi Pro League club moves towards a change in ownership.

Saudi journalist Abdullah Flatah said the process had progressed beyond preliminary discussions and was now being handled through practical steps. However, the identity of the potential buyer has not been officially disclosed.

Speaking on the Al-Manassa programme on the Thmanyah network, Flatah said the sale was progressing positively and expressed hope that it would be completed before the end of the current season.

“I expect and hope that the matter will be completed by the end of the season because the procedures are moving forward, and some commitments have entered the current phase,” he said.

The latest developments suggest the privatisation of Al-Ittihad is approaching a decisive stage. Despite the reported progress, no final agreement has been announced and the investor that could acquire the majority stake has yet to be confirmed.

The proposed transaction is part of Saudi Arabia’s wider plan to privatise sports clubs under the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The programme aims to increase private-sector involvement in sports investment, improve governance and support the financial sustainability of clubs.

Under the reported structure of the deal, the Public Investment Fund would sell 70% of its shares in Al-Ittihad while retaining the remaining 30%. That arrangement would give a new investor majority ownership, with the fund continuing as a partner in the club.

The move could provide Al-Ittihad with increased access to private investment, strengthening its financial resources and supporting its ability to compete. It would also allow the club to retain its historic status and large supporter base.

Neither the details nor the financial value of the bids have been made public. It is also not known which of the competing parties would secure the majority shareholding.

Flatah’s report of two consortiums pursuing the club indicates significant interest in investing in Al-Ittihad. The completion of the transaction will depend on the remaining procedures and agreement on the final terms between the parties involved.

The end of the current season is the timeframe Flatah hopes will see the sale completed, although the process remains subject to further developments.

Al-Ittihad are listed to play Abha in the Saudi Pro League on 30 October 2026. They are also scheduled to face Al Ain in the AFC Champions League Elite on 2 November 2026.