In a groundbreaking move for Saudi football, Al Kholood Club has become the first football club in the Kingdom to be fully acquired by a foreign entity. The American-led Harburg Group, under investor Ben Harburg, now owns the club, marking a new era in Saudi Pro League football.
This acquisition is part of the Saudi Vision 2030 privatization push, aimed at modernizing club football, improving governance, and opening the door to foreign investment. While the spotlight in Saudi football has often been on big-name clubs like Al Nassr and Al Hilal, this deal shows that there’s now a long-term, development-first approach for smaller but ambitious clubs.
Why This Matters for Fans
A fresh approach to growth—Ben Harburg plans to focus on developing local talent and community engagement, not just on bringing in international stars. This could create more opportunities for Saudi players to shine.
A professional and sustainable model—privatization brings a business-first structure to club management, making Al Kholood more competitive and financially resilient.
A new blueprint for GCC clubs— As Saudi Arabia leads the way, other clubs in the GCC could follow suit, opening the region’s leagues to international investors and expertise.
What’s Next?
Al Kholood fans can expect improved club infrastructure, youth programs, and a stronger competitive edge in the Saudi Pro League. While the team finished ninth in the 2024–25 season, the new ownership signals bigger ambitions for the coming years.
This is not just a business move—it’s a turning point for Saudi football, blending tradition with global investment. For fans, it’s an exciting chapter that could redefine how football is played, managed, and experienced in the Kingdom.
