RIYADH — Prince Alwaleed bin Talal’s Kingdom Holding Company (KHC) has signed a binding share sale and purchase agreement with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) to acquire a 70% stake in Al Hilal Club Company in a deal valued at SR840 million.
The transaction, announced on Thursday is based on an implied enterprise value of approximately SR1.4 billion and an equity valuation of SR1.2 billion for 100% of Al Hilal Club Company.
KHC said it will finance the transaction through its internal resources.
Al Hilal Club Company, incorporated in 2023, oversees one of Asia’s most successful football teams. Founded in 1957, Al Hilal has secured 90 official titles, including four AFC Champions League crowns and 21 Saudi league titles, alongside a runner-up finish at the FIFA Club World Cup in 2022. The club also commands one of the largest fan bases in the Middle East and is widely regarded as a leading sports brand in the region.
Financially, the club has demonstrated strong growth momentum, with revenues rising from SR413 million in 2023 to SR659 million in 2024, reaching SR842 million in the year ending June 30, 2025.
The deal aligns with PIF’s strategy to maximize returns and recycle capital into the domestic economy, following its role since July 2023 as a major shareholder under the Saudi sports clubs privatization program. During that period, PIF led a transformation of Al Hilal’s governance, operations, and infrastructure, contributing to significant commercial growth through sponsorships, merchandise, and matchday revenues.
PIF will remain a shareholder in the club following completion of the transaction and continue supporting its long-term development.
For KHC, the acquisition marks a strategic expansion into Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing sports and entertainment sector, in line with Vision 2030 objectives. The company said Al Hilal’s strong brand, consistent success, and large fan base present significant long-term commercial opportunities.
Under KHC’s ownership, the club is expected to focus on enhancing commercial performance, expanding international partnerships, and further developing world-class sports infrastructure.
Prince Alwaleed said the acquisition reflects confidence in the role of sports as a driver of national development, describing Al Hilal as “a national symbol and a source of pride for the Saudi people.”
Yazeed Al-Humied, Deputy Governor and Head of MENA Investments at PIF, said the transaction supports the fund’s broader efforts to strengthen the sports sector’s value proposition for investors while ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
Source: Saudi Gazette