EA Says Saudi Takeover Deal Is Set To Close Next Week
Electronic Arts’ era as a publicly traded company is ending. The company’s $55 billion acquisition by a consortium led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund is set to close on August 4, 2026, according to an SEC filing from July 30. The deal, originally announced in September 2025, also includes private-equity firm Silver Lake and Affinity Partners.
All regulatory approvals required to complete the merger have now been obtained, with the European Union providing its recent approval. This transaction stands as one of the largest ever completed in the gaming industry, representing a major consolidation in the sector.
The acquisition has generated controversy, particularly due to Saudi Arabia’s involvement through its Public Investment Fund. While regulatory hurdles have been cleared, the filing notes that completion remains subject to satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions outlined in the merger agreement.
Once the deal closes, major gaming franchises including EA Sports FC and Battlefield will operate under the new ownership structure. EA’s transition from public to private ownership marks a significant shift in control over one of gaming’s largest publishers.