Ford names SAT as new official distributor in Iraq

Ford Middle East and Africa has appointed North Al-Jazeera for Cars and Commercial Agencies (SAT) as its new official distributor in Iraq, effective Oct. 1, 2026. The move is meant to expand sales, parts and after-sales support while keeping service uninterrupted during a transition from Al Qassad through Sept. 30.

Why it matters: - Ford is reinforcing a long-term push in Iraq, one of the region’s key growth markets for the brand. - The new distributor is expected to broaden access to Ford vehicles, genuine parts and service support across the country. - The transition is designed to protect customers’ access to sales, warranty coverage and maintenance without disruption.

What happened: - Ford Middle East and Africa appointed North Al-Jazeera for Cars and Commercial Agencies (SAT) as its new official distributor in Iraq. - The appointment takes effect on Oct. 1, 2026. - SAT will handle Ford vehicle distribution, genuine parts supply and after-sales service throughout Iraq. - Ford will continue working with Al Qassad until Sept. 30, 2026 to ensure a smooth handover.

The details: - SAT is a strategic alliance between March Holding and Al Ahlan Group. - March Holding runs an investment portfolio with more than 10 companies across sectors in Iraq, including technology, financial services, digital solutions and e-commerce. - Al Ahlan Group has more than 50 years of experience in vehicle distribution in the region. - Ford said the partnership supports its ability to give Iraqi customers access to current models, genuine parts and advanced maintenance services. - During the transition period, customers can still buy Ford vehicles, get genuine parts and service their cars through Al Qassad facilities. - Warranty terms, maintenance support and parts availability remain fully in place after the transition to SAT. - Ford and SAT plan to announce SAT branch locations, authorized service centers and customer contact channels closer to launch.

Between the lines: - Ford is betting on a distributor structure that combines local market knowledge with regional business scale. - SAT’s ownership mix suggests Ford is seeking both established automotive expertise and broader commercial reach in Iraq. - The handover from Al Qassad after nine years signals continuity, not a reset, in Ford’s market strategy. - Rafi Ravishanthan, head of Ford Middle East and North Africa, said Iraq is a key growth hub and that SAT shares Ford’s customer-first, quality and sustainable-growth priorities. - Mohammed Allan, CEO of SAT, said the company’s role goes beyond distribution and includes preserving Ford’s legacy in Iraq. - Yaseen Al-Saati, general manager of SAT, said the Iraqi market offers strong opportunities for Ford and that SAT aims to convert them into sustainable growth.

What's next: - Ford and SAT will roll out more information on branches, service centers and customer channels as the Oct. 1 start date approaches. - Customers will continue using Al Qassad’s network through Sept. 30, 2026 before the formal switch to SAT. - Ford says it will work with Al Qassad to keep the transition smooth for customers.

The bottom line: - Ford is changing distributors in Iraq without changing its core promise: keep the brand visible, the service network stable and customer support intact.