Najd Gateway Holding Company has announced its intention to acquire approximately 84.51 percent of Samba Bank Limited, a transaction that would grant the Saudi-based firm majority control of the Pakistani lender. The proposed acquisition is structured through a share purchase agreement and remains subject to regulatory approvals, underscoring the strategic and compliance-driven nature of cross-border investments in Pakistan’s banking sector. Arif Habib Limited, acting as manager to the offer, disclosed the development in an official submission to the Pakistan Stock Exchange, highlighting adherence to the Securities Act, 2015, which governs such corporate actions in the country.
The public announcement reveals that the acquiring company plans to purchase 852.04 million shares from Samba Bank’s current majority owner, The Saudi National Bank, which presently holds an 84.51 percent stake in the bank. In line with takeover regulations, a mandatory public offer will also be launched to acquire a minimum of 78.1 million shares, representing roughly 1.15 percent of the bank’s total equity. This step ensures compliance with regulatory requirements while providing minority shareholders an opportunity to participate in the transaction.
Najd Gateway Holding is a privately owned investment and holding company headquartered in Riyadh, wholly owned by Prince Mansour bin Mohammed S. Al Saud. The acquisition is positioned as a strategic move to establish a stronger platform within Pakistan’s regulated financial sector, enhancing bilateral financial cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. By gaining a controlling stake, the firm aims to support long-term growth and development of Samba Bank while leveraging synergies to expand its footprint in the South Asian market.
The transaction is contingent upon satisfactory completion of due diligence and the receipt of all required regulatory approvals. Officials have clarified that if these approvals are not obtained, the acquiring company reserves the right to withdraw from the intended purchase. Arif Habib Limited has been formally appointed to manage the offer, overseeing compliance, shareholder communications, and execution of the acquisition process.
As of February 16, 2026, Samba Bank shares closed at Rs14.01 per share, while the 28-day volume-weighted average price stood at Rs14.61, reflecting the market’s pricing dynamics ahead of the proposed acquisition. The bank has 1.01 billion issued shares of Rs10 each and has been listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange since August 2003, establishing a longstanding presence in Pakistan’s financial sector. Analysts suggest that this transaction may serve as a catalyst for increased foreign investment interest in Pakistan’s banking industry, particularly from Gulf-based investors seeking exposure to regulated financial markets in emerging economies.
The proposed acquisition of Samba Bank by Najd Gateway Holding is expected to create a platform for strategic growth, potentially introducing capital, expertise, and stronger financial governance to the bank. For Pakistan’s banking sector, the deal could enhance operational efficiencies, foster new financial products, and encourage deeper cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, supporting broader economic engagement. The transaction represents a significant milestone in cross-border investment activity, reinforcing the role of foreign investors in shaping the future of Pakistan’s regulated financial ecosystem.
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