Saudi Franchise Firms Eye Tadawul Listings, Al-Ghamdi Says

Several franchise companies are interested in listing their shares on the Saudi Exchange, Khalid Al-Ghamdi, head of the National Franchise Committee at the Federation of Saudi Chambers, said. Some have already listed, he added, without naming specific firms.

The committee, which represents franchise operators within the Saudi private sector, has been working to support companies through the listing process. Al-Ghamdi's remarks come as Saudi Arabia pushes to broaden its capital markets under Vision 2030. The Tadawul has introduced a parallel market, Nomu, with lighter listing requirements for smaller companies. That venue could suit franchise firms looking to raise capital for expansion.

The franchise sector in Saudi Arabia has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by international brands entering the market and domestic chains scaling up. Listing on Tadawul would give these companies access to a wider investor base and a currency for acquisitions. Al-Ghamdi said the committee plans to hold workshops on listing requirements to help franchise companies prepare.

The comments suggest that the pipeline of potential listings on Tadawul could include a wave of franchise operators. The exchange has seen a steady flow of new listings this year, including several from the retail and consumer sectors. A franchise listing would add to that diversity.

Al-Ghamdi did not provide a timeline for any specific listings. The committee's next workshop is scheduled for later this quarter, he said.