Saudi Arabia’s logistics sector continues to gain momentum on the global stage, and SAL Logistics Services is emerging as one of its most prominent success stories. 

In a matter of weeks, the company has achieved two significant milestones that underline both its operational maturity and international ambitions: becoming the first Saudi company to earn the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Security Management System (SeMS) certification and completing its first overseas acquisition with the purchase of Belgium-based cargo handler Aviapartner Liège.

Together, these developments highlight SAL’s evolving role from a national cargo-handling leader to an increasingly influential player in global logistics, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goal of becoming a leading international transport and logistics hub.

Raising the Bar

SAL recently became the first company in Saudi Arabia and only the second in the Middle East and North Africa region to receive IATA’s Security Management System (SeMS) Level 1 certification. The achievement recognises the effectiveness of the company’s security management framework across cargo handling and ground operations.

The certification reflects SAL’s commitment to adopting internationally recognised security standards and embedding a proactive, risk-based approach throughout its operations. Obtained following a rigorous assessment process, the accolade serves as an endorsement of the company’s ability to manage aviation security challenges while maintaining operational efficiency.

The certification recognises the effectiveness of SAL’s security management framework across its cargo handling and ground operations. 

The certification was presented during a ceremony at IATA headquarters in Geneva.

For a country seeking to position itself as a major logistics gateway, robust security standards are increasingly becoming a competitive differentiator. By aligning its practices with global benchmarks, SAL is reinforcing confidence among airlines, freight forwarders and customers operating through Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding logistics ecosystem.

“Security is the foundation of trusted cargo operations,” said Omar Talal Hariri, Chief Executive Officer of SAL. “Achieving the IATA Security Management System certification as the first company in Saudi Arabia reflects the advancement of SAL’s security practices. It is a testament to the dedication of our teams. It reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class standards that safeguard our customers while enhancing operational excellence across Saudi Arabia’s aviation and logistics sectors.”

Expanding Beyond Saudi

While the SeMS certification strengthens SAL’s operational credentials, the company’s acquisition of Aviapartner Liège marks a major strategic leap beyond the Kingdom.

The SAR120 million ($31.4 million) all-cash acquisition gives SAL full ownership of the Belgian cargo handling and ground services provider, creating the company’s first operational base outside Saudi Arabia. The deal also expands SAL’s network to 20 stations and establishes a direct presence at Liège Airport, one of Europe’s most important cargo gateways.

Liège Airport handles more than one million tonnes of freight annually and ranks among Europe’s top cargo airports. Its strategic location within Europe’s so-called “Golden Triangle” provides access to a region through which more than 70 per cent of the continent’s freight flows, connecting major economic centres in Germany, France, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

The airport’s 24/7 operations, extensive cargo infrastructure and lack of night-flight restrictions have made it particularly attractive for time-sensitive shipments.

Through the acquisition, SAL not only gains an established operational platform in Europe but also inherits decades of industry expertise and long-standing customer relationships built by Aviapartner Liège. The company brings specialised capabilities spanning cargo handling, ramp services, warehouse logistics and complex freight processing, offering SAL opportunities to broaden its service portfolio and strengthen links between Saudi Arabia and key international markets.