Ford names SAT as its Iraq distributor partner

Ford Middle East and North Africa has appointed Shimal Al Jazeera Auto-Trading and Commercial Agencies as its distributor partner in Iraq, effective Oct. 1, 2026. The move is meant to expand sales, parts and aftersales support while keeping customer service continuity during the handover from Al Kasid.

Why it matters: - Ford is deepening its long-term presence in Iraq, a market the company views as important for growth. - The new distributor structure is designed to widen access to Ford vehicles, genuine parts and aftersales support across the country. - The transition is intended to protect service continuity for existing Ford customers while the network changes hands.

What happened: - Ford Middle East and North Africa appointed Shimal Al Jazeera Auto-Trading and Commercial Agencies, known as SAT, as its distributor partner in Iraq. - The appointment takes effect on 1 Oct. 2026. - SAT will handle Ford vehicle sales, genuine parts and aftersales services in Iraq. - SAT is a strategic alliance between March Holding and Alayyan Group. - Ford and Al Kasid will work together through 30 Sept. 2026 to manage the transition.

The details: - March Holding manages more than 10 companies across Iraqi market sectors including technology, financial services, digital solutions and e-commerce. - Alayyan Group has more than 50 years of automotive distribution experience in the region. - Ford said the combined local experience of March Holding and Alayyan Group positions SAT to support Ford’s growth and customer experience in Iraq. - During the transition period, customers can keep buying Ford vehicles and getting genuine parts and vehicle service through Al Kasid facilities. - Ford said vehicle warranties, service support and parts availability will continue after the transition. - Ford said more details on SAT locations, service centers and customer touchpoints will be shared closer to the start of operations. - Ford thanked Al Kasid for representing the brand in Iraq over the past nine years.

Between the lines: - The appointment gives Ford a distributor with both local market reach and regional automotive experience, which may help the brand expand in a market where aftersales support matters as much as sales. - The staged handover suggests Ford wants to avoid service disruption and preserve customer trust during the switch. - Ford leadership framed the move as both a commercial expansion and a long-term brand commitment to Iraqi customers.

What's next: - SAT will begin operating as Ford’s distributor partner in Iraq on 1 Oct. 2026. - Ford and SAT will share additional information on operating locations and service access before launch. - Customers are expected to continue receiving sales and service support through the transition period and beyond.

The bottom line: - Ford is changing distributors in Iraq, but the company is trying to make the switch feel seamless for customers while setting up a longer-term growth push.