Al Hilal lands significant commercial partnerships as Prince Al-Waleed considers takeover

August proved to be a busy month for Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, with the club securing two significant commercial partnerships and attracting renewed investment interest. On August 20, Al Hilal announced a three-year agreement with NESCAFÉ, Nestlé’s coffee brand, making it the club’s official coffee sponsor with extensive rights, including prominent placement on the women’s team jerseys.

Just five days later, the club finalised a deal with Unilumin Sports, who will serve as Al Hilal’s exclusive provider of LED screen technology to enhance the in-stadium experience. To cap off an already significant month, reports also emerged that Saudi billionaire Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal is in preliminary talks to acquire the Public Investment Fund’s 75% controlling stake in the club.

These developments reflect Al Hilal’s broader strategy to modernise its infrastructure and deepen fan engagement, while also highlighting the potential for a significant shift in ownership. The Unilumin partnership promises to deliver high-definition visuals and dynamic content during matchdays, raising the standard of presentation inside the stadium.

At the same time, the NESCAFÉ deal integrates lifestyle branding into both on-field and in-venue assets, extending the club’s appeal to global consumer markets. Together, these initiatives underline Al Hilal’s commitment to strengthening its commercial profile for the 2025-26 season. Beyond the immediate financial benefits, such agreements align the club with internationally recognised brands, reinforcing its reputation as one of the Middle East’s leading sports institutions and further enhancing its pull with sponsors and fans alike.

The reports linking Prince Al-Waleed to a potential takeover represent the most dramatic development. A lifelong supporter of Al Hilal, the billionaire has already demonstrated his commitment, investing around SAR 1.5 billion (roughly $400 million) into the club and even playing a role in high-profile transfers such as Neymar’s arrival in 2023.

The PIF currently controls 75% of Al Hilal, with the remaining 25% held by a local non-profit entity that is reportedly heavily reliant on Prince Al-Waleed’s funding. Should negotiations progress, the club could be set for a new era of private stewardship, combining its expanding commercial partnerships with the financial influence of one of Saudi Arabia’s most prominent business figures.