Kingdom Holding Company, chaired by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, signed a binding agreement with the Public Investment Fund on 16 April to acquire 70% of Al-Hilal Club Company, valuing the Riyadh football club at SAR1.4bn on an enterprise-value basis.
Why Kingdom Holding Company is buying Al-Hilal Club Company (70%)
PIF said the sale fits its strategy of maximising returns and redeploying capital within the domestic economy. KHC said the deal diversifies its investments into high-growth sectors and that it would help Al-Hilal improve commercial performance, expand international partnerships and develop sports infrastructure.
“Al-Hilal is a national symbol and a source of pride for the Saudi people.”
Deal terms and financing
Latham & Watkins, KHC's legal adviser, said the acquisition was worth SAR840m based on an overall valuation of about SAR1.4bn. PIF retains the remaining 30% and said it would continue to support the club.
Regulatory approvals and timing
Closing required regulatory approvals and other conditions. Kingdom Holding and PIF announced on 1 September 2026 that the transaction had completed, according to MEED.
Market context
PIF became Al-Hilal's main shareholder in July 2023 under Saudi Arabia's sports clubs investment and privatisation project, and said it had improved the club's governance, operations and facilities, lifting sponsorship, merchandise and matchday revenue.
