Balad Development Company signs platinum sponsorship deal with Al-Ittihad

Balad Development Company, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, has announced the signing of a platinum sponsorship agreement with Al-Ittihad Club. This marks a new phase in the partnership between the two parties and aims to expand cooperation through joint content, experiences, and initiatives that strengthen the club’s connection with the city of Jeddah, bring fans closer to Historic Jeddah and its experiences, and support the vibrancy of the area, its community, and local economy.

The sponsorship reflects the cultural and historical significance of Al-Ittihad Club, which is considered an integral part of Historic Jeddah’s heritage and a key player in the development of local sports. Founded in Jeddah in 1927, Al-Ittihad is the oldest sports club in Saudi Arabia. The agreement also demonstrates Balad Development Company’s commitment to preserving sports and cultural heritage, boosting economic and social activity in Al-Balad, and enhancing the club’s role as a cornerstone in building a prosperous and cohesive community.

On this occasion, Jameel Ghaznawi, CEO of Balad Development Company, said: "Al-Ittihad Club is one of the most prominent elements of Jeddah’s sporting and social memory. Our longstanding relationship has made our partnership one of the most impactful local collaborations, creating value that goes beyond traditional sponsorship. With the expansion of our partnership, we aim to translate it into experiences and initiatives that bring the community closer to Historic Jeddah, support the area’s vibrancy, and deliver tangible value to visitors, the community, and local businesses."

He added: "We are confident that sports and culture have an exceptional ability to unite communities and highlight the identity of cities. This partnership is an opportunity to showcase the transformation underway in Historic Jeddah as part of its revitalization initiative, establishing it as a global destination that celebrates its cultural heritage while embracing the future. We aim to offer sustainable experiences that combine sports, culture, and place, and strengthen the connection of younger generations with Historic Jeddah."

For his part, Domingos Soares, CEO of Al-Ittihad Club, said: "Al-Ittihad Club is deeply connected to the city of Jeddah and its fans. This partnership is an opportunity to expand the club’s role and launch initiatives that bring supporters closer to the cultural and community experiences of Historic Jeddah. We look forward to working with Balad Development Company to deliver tangible value to our fans and the city."

Under the agreement, the sponsorship will be activated through a range of media and marketing assets, as well as community initiatives and events linked to the sports season. These efforts aim to increase fan participation in Historic Jeddah experiences and raise awareness of the company’s projects and initiatives. This reflects Balad Development Company’s commitment to contributing to the revitalization and economic sustainability of Historic Jeddah, in line with the Public Investment Fund’s objectives to support Saudi Vision 2030 by diversifying the national economy and enabling investment in tourism, hospitality, and culture.

As a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, Balad Development Company is implementing landmark projects to revive Historic Jeddah and transform it into a thriving economic hub that balances the preservation of architectural and cultural identity with promising future investment.