The SAL logistics acquisition of Aviapartner Liège SA has been completed for approximately SAR 120 million (EUR 28 million), marking the company’s first operational presence outside Saudi Arabia, representing a major expansion in the economy and logistics sector.
The transaction was finalized in cash using internal resources after securing all necessary regulatory approvals. This transaction expands the network of SAL Logistics Services Company to 20 stations, establishing a direct operating base at Liège Airport in Belgium. This airport is Europe’s fifth-largest cargo hub by freight volume and handles more than one million tons of cargo annually, making it a key node in global aviation networks.
Details of the European Expansion
The acquired entity, Aviapartner Liège SA, provides cargo handling and warehouse logistics services. The company maintains established relationships with airlines, freight forwarders, and logistics providers. Its operations cover ramp assistance, warehouse logistics, and specialized processing for pharmaceuticals, perishables, automotive parts, and high-value cargo.
Liège Airport is located within Europe’s cargo “Golden Triangle,” where more than 70% of European freight flows. The hub offers direct connectivity to major transport networks in Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. The airport operates 24 hours a day without night-time curfew restrictions, facilitating rapid cargo movement.
Strategic Impact of the SAL Logistics Acquisition
The SAL logistics acquisition creates operational connections across air cargo handling, warehouse logistics, and European road distribution. This expansion increases the range of services SAL can offer at international airports. It also supports cargo flows between Saudi Arabia, Europe, and global markets.
“This acquisition is an important step in the next phase of SAL’s strategy. Our ambition is not only to grow our footprint, but to build a platform that connects markets, capabilities and customers across key global trade corridors.”
Omar Talal Hariri, Chief Executive Officer of SAL
Operational Capabilities at Liège Airport
The acquisition allows SAL to access the long-term growth plans of the air cargo hub. The airport’s “CargoLand” development project plans to expand warehouse infrastructure and airside access. These developments aim to nearly double the airport’s cargo capacity and annual flight movements by the year 2040.
This international base provides SAL with additional capacity to manage future European cargo flows. The company will use the established infrastructure to handle specialized freight segments. This supports the company’s long-term growth in a major European air cargo market.
Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030
This transaction aligns with SAL’s strategy to scale its platform and enter new international markets. By strengthening connectivity between Saudi Arabia and global trade hubs, the company supports the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. This strategy is a key component of Saudi Vision 2030.
SAL Logistics Services Company operates across major airports and logistics hubs in Saudi Arabia. The company focuses on cargo handling, ground handling, and logistics solutions. This acquisition represents its first step in establishing a physical operational footprint outside the Middle East.
