SAL Logistics Services Company has completed the acquisition of 100% of Aviapartner Liège SA, marking its first operational expansion beyond Saudi Arabia and increasing its global network to 20 stations.
The transaction, valued at approximately SAR 120 million (EUR 28 million), was finalised in cash using SAL’s internal resources following all necessary regulatory approvals.
The acquisition gives SAL a direct presence at Liège Airport in Belgium, one of Europe’s leading cargo hubs. Ranked as the continent’s fifth-largest cargo airport by volume, Liège handles more than one million tonnes of freight annually and sits among the world’s top 25 cargo airports.
The airport has demonstrated strong growth momentum, with cargo volumes rising by over 50% since 2018. Its strategic location within Europe’s “Golden Triangle” — a region accounting for more than 70% of the continent’s freight flows — provides direct connectivity to key logistics markets including Germany, the Netherlands, France and Luxembourg.
Liège Airport’s advanced infrastructure, 24/7 operations and absence of night-time curfews enable fast, efficient and time-critical cargo handling, making it a vital gateway for European and global trade.
Through Aviapartner Liège, SAL gains an established cargo handling and warehouse logistics operator with deep roots in the market, supported by the broader Aviapartner Group’s 60-year presence at the airport. The business brings strong relationships with airlines, freight forwarders and logistics providers, alongside expertise in cargo handling, ramp services, warehousing and specialised freight segments such as pharmaceuticals, perishables, automotive and high-value goods.
The integration is expected to unlock strategic and operational synergies across cargo handling, specialised logistics, warehouse operations and European road distribution. For SAL, it provides immediate operational scale in Europe, broadens its service offering at international airports, and enhances its ability to support cargo flows between Saudi Arabia, Europe and global markets.
The move also positions SAL to expand customer partnerships, develop new airline relationships and strengthen its presence in high-value cargo segments where reliability, speed and quality are essential, while laying the groundwork for long-term growth in one of Europe’s most strategically important cargo markets.
Omar Talal Hariri, Chief Executive Officer of SAL, said: “This acquisition marks a significant milestone in SAL’s growth journey.
“Our ambition is not only to expand our footprint, but to build a global platform that connects markets, capabilities and customers across key trade corridors.
“Aviapartner Liège provides us with our first international operating base, bringing valuable expertise and customer relationships that will enhance how we serve airlines, freight forwarders and cargo owners.
“As we grow beyond the Kingdom, we remain committed to supporting our customers while contributing to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambition of becoming a leading global logistics hub.”