UD Almería Acquired by Saudi Investment Group Led by SMC in Full Ownership Transfer.

Roger Hampel

Photo Credit: UD Almería

UD Almería has confirmed the full transfer of club ownership to a Saudi investment consortium led by SMC Group, marking a significant change in the club’s leadership and strategic direction. The deal includes the involvement of high-profile investors, including Abna Al Theeb Group, and represents a formal conclusion to the ownership tenure of Turki Al Al-Sheikh.

The acquisition is currently undergoing final regulatory procedures with LaLiga and relevant football governance bodies.

A New Ownership Structure for Long-Term Growth

The move signifies more than a change of ownership — it’s being positioned as a strategic transition aimed at creating a modern, sustainable investment and operational model at UD Almería. The club’s new leadership has outlined intentions to strengthen both sporting performance and commercial presence, with a strong emphasis on long-term value creation.

The SMC-led group brings expertise from across media, technology, and advertising, sectors increasingly intersecting with football as clubs seek to monetize digital engagement, content, and global brand positioning.

Mohammed Al-Khereiji to Lead as Chairman UD Almería Saudi Investment Group

Mohammed Al-Khereiji, a prominent figure in Middle Eastern business and sports media, will take over as Chairman of the Board. His leadership is expected to emphasize innovation, commercial expansion, and community impact, aligning with a broader industry shift toward integrated media strategies in football.

Al-Khereiji’s background in large-scale advertising and sports investments adds a layer of commercial credibility to the ownership group’s vision. His appointment underscores the club’s intent to professionalize operations, grow international appeal, and position Almería within the evolving European football economy.

Building on Progress Under Previous Ownership

The announcement also closes the chapter of Turki Al Al-Sheikh, under whose leadership the club made notable progress, including its return to LaLiga. The new ownership has indicated it will build on existing infrastructure, invest in continuity, and support both first-team ambitions and youth development.

The transition is seen as an opportunity to reset the club’s trajectory with financial stability, operational restructuring, and enhanced community engagement.

Implications for Spanish Football and Foreign Ownership Trends

UD Almería’s new structure reflects the growing influence of Gulf-region investors in European football, particularly in LaLiga. While the deal still awaits formal approval, it places the club among a growing list of Spanish teams with non-European ownership models.

As media rights, digital engagement, and club commercialization become central to football strategy, owners from media-rich regions are increasingly seen as potential catalysts for brand acceleration and off-pitch monetization.