Saudi Gazette report

RIYADH — The Ministry of Sports announced Thursday the privatization of the three football clubs— Al-Ansar, Al-Kholood, and Al-Zulfi — under the Kingdom’s broader sports investment and privatization initiative.

Ownership of the clubs has officially been transferred to private investors following the completion of regulatory procedures and company formation by the National Center for Privatization.

Al-Zulfi FC will now be owned by Najm Al-Salam Company, Al-Kholood by Harburg Group, and Al-Ansar by Awda Al-Baladi & Sons Company.

This follows the August 2024 announcement of six clubs slated for privatization: Al-Ansar, Al-Okhdood, Al-Kholood, Al-Zulfi, Al-Orouba, and Al-Nahda.

The three remaining clubs — Al-Nahda, Al-Okhdood, and Al-Orouba — are still under evaluation. Al-Nahda has completed its bid submission period, while the other two did not meet the qualification requirements.

Minister of Sports Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal hailed the milestone, saying: “With the leadership’s support, we are witnessing a historic moment in Saudi sports. This step reflects the visionary leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.”

He also congratulated the clubs and welcomed the private sector as a key partner in driving forward the Kingdom’s sports development.

The ministry emphasized that future privatizations will proceed based on club readiness, investor interest, and competitive tendering. It has opened the door for further expressions of interest via its official website, aiming to continue building a competitive, professional sports sector.

Privatization efforts are part of a larger push to raise operational efficiency, enhance governance, and attract private sector partnerships across Saudi sports, creating a modern sports industry aligned with the Kingdom’s strategic goals.