News DeskDubai, UAE – The DP World International League T20 (ILT20) and the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) have announced a new strategic partnership, marking a major step forward for cricket in the Gulf region. The agreement officially recognizes the DP World ILT20 as a sanctioned T20 league in Saudi Arabia and aims to create new pathways for the sport within the Kingdom.
The collaboration will see the DP World ILT20 work directly with the SACF and its commercial arm, the Cricket Investment Company (CIC), to identify and nurture local talent. A key part of this initiative is the inclusion of Saudi players in the league. For the upcoming Season 4 Player Auction on Wednesday, October 1, each franchise will be required to draft at least one player from Saudi Arabia.
In the future, the partnership will expand to include hosting DP World ILT20 matches within Saudi Arabia. This move is designed to bring world-class cricket closer to fans in the Kingdom and to help develop cricketing infrastructure.
A Shared Vision for Growth
Chairman of the ILT20, Khalid Al Zarooni, expressed his pride in the partnership, stating, “We are very proud to announce our partnership with the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation. Saudi Arabia is a key part of the Gulf region, and its commitment to developing cricket is inspiring.
“This partnership is built on our shared vision of growing the game beyond borders. The DP World ILT20 will create opportunities for players and hopefully bring world-class cricket closer to the fans.”
Prince Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud, Chairman of Saudi Arabia Cricket Federation (SACF): Chairman of the SACF, “We are proud to partner with the DP World ILT20. This collaboration reflects our commitment to developing cricket in the country and providing our players with opportunities to grow and succeed on an international stage. It also provides a platform for fan engagement within the Kingdom and opens up further avenues for developing the game across infrastructure and tourism.
“With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 placing strong emphasis on sport and community engagement, we believe this partnership will inspire more young men and women to take up cricket and will play a vital role in the sport’s growth in the country as part of SACF’s strategy to enable the private sector within Saudi Arabia.
“This partnership is of immense significance to both SACF and the DP World ILT20, as we jointly expand across borders and become a catalyst for the growth of cricket in the Gulf region.”
New Opportunities for Saudi Cricketers
David White, CEO DP World ILT20: “This is a significant step in our vision to grow the game across the Gulf region. We have seen first-hand how young players from the UAE, and the broader ecosystem, have benefited from the DP World ILT20 platform under world-class coaching and playing alongside international stars. With Saudi Arabia’s dynamic growth in sport and entertainment, this partnership provides a tremendous opportunity for Saudi cricketers to develop.”
“In the coming years we will be hosting DP World ILT20 tournament matches in Saudi Arabia while from next year, a development tournament will also be staged there which will provide an excellent opportunity to the local talent to make a claim for the main event. The league will also help Saudi Arabia in cricketing infrastructure development.”
The DP World ILT20 Season 4 is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, December 2, with the final set for Sunday, January 4, 2026.
