What is the Al-Ittihad Club
Al-Ittihad Club is one of foremost sporting clubs in Saudi Arabia based in Jeddah. It holds a special place in Saudi sports history and competes in the Saudi Pro League, the top professional football league in the Kingdom.
Al-Ittihad is the oldest sports club in Saudi Arabia. For nearly 100 years, it has supported the growth of football and many other sports across the country.
History: The Beginning of Al-Ittihad Club in 1927
Al-Ittihad Club was founded in Jeddah on December 26, 1927 by a group of passionate footballers. Among the founders were notable figures such as Hamza Fitaihi, Abdul Samad Najib Al-Saadi, Ismail Zahran, Ali Yamani, Abdulaziz Jameel, Abdullatif Jameel, Abdullatif Linjawi, Othman Banaja, Ahmed Abu Talib, Ali Sultan and Saleh Salama.
The founders aimed to organize football in Jeddah and promote sports in Saudi Arabia. Since 1927, Al-Ittihad Club has grown continuously and become one of the most successful teams in the region.
The Emblem and Color Significance
The Al-Ittihad logo reflects the club’s prestige and history. The club has kept its iconic yellow and black colors since its founding year. These colors symbolize the identity and traditions of the club and its fans.
Logo Elements:
- The Number One: Represents Al-Ittihad as the first and oldest club in Saudi Arabia.
- The Shield: Displays the club’s name in Arabic.
- City Name: Jeddah appears in both Arabic and English.
- Founding Date: Shows the Hijri and Gregorian dates of establishment, honoring the club’s long history.
Ten Different Sports at Al-Ittihad Club
Al-Ittihad Club is more than a football club. It is a full sports institution offering 10 different sports.
Team Sports:
- Football
- Basketball
- Volleyball
- Handball
Individual Sports:
- Tennis
- Swimming
- Athletics
- Weightlifting
- Cycling
Modern Activities:
- Electronic games
- Chess
These diverse sports programs make Al-Ittihad a central part of Jeddah community.
Stunning Achievements and Awards
Al-Ittihad has earned numerous titles and honors over the decades, proving its strength and leadership.
- AFC Champions League (twice): One of only three Asian clubs to win back to back titles.
- Asian Cup Winners Cup: One time champions.
- Arab Champions League: Champions of one of the top Arabic regional competitions.
- Gulf Cup: Champions against top Gulf teams.
- FIFA Club World Cup: Participated in the world biggest club football tournament.
- Saudi Pro League Champions (2024–2025): The most recent major achievement, confirming Al-Ittihad’s elite status.
Famous Players in Al-Ittihad Club’s History
Saudi Players:
- Saeed Ghurab
- Mohammed Noor
- Ahmed Jamil
- Mohammed Al-Khilaiwi
- Hamzah Idris
- Saud Kariri
- Mohamed Al-Suwaiyed
- Hamad Al-Montashari
International Players:
- Karim Benzema (France)
- Moussa Diaby (France)
- N’Golo Kanté (France)
- Mohamed Kallon (Sierra Leone)
International stars brought attention to Al-Ittihad, raising the club’s level of competition worldwide.
Women’s Sports Programs in Al-Ittihad Club
Al-Ittihad promotes sports for all including women with a growing number of women’s teams and programs:
- Women’s Football
- Women’s Athletics
- Women’s Basketball
- Women’s Weightlifting
The club strongly supports equal sports opportunities for both men and women.
Big Changes: Ownership Transfer in 2023
A major transformation happened on June 5, 2023. When the Saudi Ministry of Sport announced a new ownership structure.
The Public Investment Fund Takes Over
Al-Ittihad Club is now owned by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia.
Ownership Structure:
- PIF owns 75% of the club
- A non-profit organization owns 25%
This move is part of Saudi Arabia’s plan, led by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, to modernize sports and boost competition worldwide.
Company and Management of Al-Ittihad Club
Since 2019, the Al-Ittihad Club Investment Company has managed the club’s commercial and business operations.
What the Company Handles:
- Club business and investments
- Marketing
- Fan engagement programs
- Membership management
- Commercial rights and sponsorships
- Player marketing and licensing
- Contract negotiations
- All commercial and investment activities
The company is headquartered in Jeddah and works to grow the club both on and off the field.
How to Connect with Al-Ittihad Club Online
Official Website: https://www.ittihadclub.sa/en
Website Features:
- Latest news and updates
- First team information
- Match schedules and results
- Ticket information
- Social responsibility programs
- Official merchandise store
- Club strategies and goals
- Organizational structure
You can also follow on social media platforms. These platforms provide daily updates on players, matches and club news.
The Importance of Al-Ittihad Club to Saudi Arabia
- Oldest sports club in Saudi Arabia
- Key role in developing sports for 100 years
- International recognition and respect
- Modern leadership with long-term vision
- Strong community impact, uniting fans
Conclusion
Al-Ittihad Club is one of the most historic and respected sports institutions in Saudi Arabia. Founded in 1927 and crowned Saudi Pro League champions in 2024–2025. The club continues to thrive with strong leadership, worldwide recognition and strong fan support.
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