Article details

Middle East Paper Co. (MEPCO) has finalized the title deed transfer for a 966,500-square-meter vacant land plot in the Hadda area, following a final court ruling in its favor. The property, previously classified as advances paid for land acquisition, will now be reclassified as an asset in MEPCO's financial statements. Legal fees associated with the transfer will be recognized in the company's Q2 2026 financial reports. The company had previously faced a lawsuit from Al Shorouq Al Motatawera Development Co. over ownership proof, which was resolved in MEPCO's favor in September 2023.

This development impacts MEPCO's balance sheet, particularly its current assets and liabilities. The reclassification of SAR 32.3 million from advances to current assets in 2022 highlights the company's long-term commitment to land acquisition. For traders, the resolution of the legal dispute reduces uncertainty around asset ownership, potentially stabilizing investor confidence. However, the financial impact remains unclear until Q2 2026, when full details will be disclosed.

For Gulf investors, the outcome underscores the importance of legal clarity in real estate investments. MEPCO's ability to resolve the dispute may signal stronger governance practices. Traders should monitor Q2 2026 earnings reports for clarity on the asset's valuation and potential effects on the company's financial health. The resolution also sets a precedent for similar corporate disputes in Saudi Arabia's evolving legal framework.