Saudi Arabian entertainment and sports tech platform webook.com has ventured into Europe by acquiring SmartMove, a Portugal-based event technology firm boasting over 30 years of industry expertise.
The agreement provides webook.com with a functional base in Europe while enhancing its abilities in managing memberships, ticketing systems, access control, customer relationship management, e-commerce, and operating digital events, according to a press announcement.
The transaction's financial details were not revealed, but the company reported having over 17 million users in more than 180 countries and handling over 40 million ticket bookings.
The purchase represents a significant milestone for the technology sector in the Kingdom, showcasing the increasing global aspirations of Saudi-founded firms and aligning with the larger objectives of Vision 2030.
"Webook.com was established in Saudi Arabia with a worldwide vision from the very beginning," stated Nadeem Bakhsh, CEO of webook.com.
Also Read: Medline Expands Slovakia Manufacturing for European Growth
“This purchase is a narrative of Saudi technology exports." "It demonstrates how firms from the Kingdom are creating platforms that can compete on a global scale, gaining international capabilities, and contributing to the advancement of sports and entertainment technology," he mentioned.
Bakhsh stated that Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 has facilitated an environment for domestic technology firms to grow globally.
Saudi Arabia's market for live events has grown swiftly due to the strategy, with the General Entertainment Authority noting over 89 million attendees to entertainment activities in 2025, an increase from 76.9 million visitors at 423 entertainment sites in 2024.
Also Read: UK Commits $1.5 Billion to Expand AI Computing and Chip Capabilities
The sports industry in Saudi Arabia is rapidly expanding, with its market worth expected to increase from approximately $8 billion to $22.4 billion by 2030, as per SURJ Sports Investments.
Since 2019, the Kingdom has hosted over 100 significant international events in 40 different sports, showcasing the increasing importance of sports and entertainment in its efforts for economic diversification.
“Vision 2030 has fostered an atmosphere where Saudi firms can expand their aspirations and cater to a global market,” Bakhsh stated, further noting: “SmartMove provides us with a robust operational base in Europe, featuring extensive knowledge in football memberships, ticket sales, and matchday entry.”
SmartMove offers technology solutions for sports teams, leagues, venues, and event organizers.
“This exemplifies the type of worldwide expansion achievable by Saudi tech firms,” Bakhsh noted. "We are also broadening our reach globally." We are bringing Saudi-developed infrastructure, operational skills, and aspirations to international markets.
Also Read: Europe Backs Battery Sector with €1.5 Billion Investment Drive
Webook.com stated that it anticipates revealing additional European collaborations and initiatives in the next few weeks while it continues to grow its global footprint.