The 28-year-old World Cup defender had spent the past 18 months with Korean club Suwon Bluewings but joins Al Ittihad on a two-year deal.

Jurman and Al Ittihad completed the formalities of the deal in Dubai.

The eight-time Saudi Arabian champions and two-time AFC Champions League winners confirmed the signing on Monday morning AEST, with Jurman also revealing the news on social media.

The former Sydney FC defender, who had been linked with a move to the Middle East over the past fortnight, said that he was excited to join Al Ittihad who haven't won the league title since 2009.

He also thanked Suwon Bluewings for his time there, but said it was time for the "next step" in his career.

Jurman made 36 appearances across his season and a half in Korea in all competitions, including the AFC Champions League, although he missed several months earlier this year with a knee injury.

 

From the day I became a @suwonsamsungfc player, I loved every minute of it. Being my first move overseas for my career it had its ups and downs, but I thoroughly enjoyed every moment and loved learning the Korean culture and way of living! I always gave my best when I played for Suwon to always try to help the team win. I’ll miss the city, the fans, my teammates and all the coaching staff and office staff. I’ll never forget the friends and experiences I made there! From now, I’ll be a Suwon fan & will be following the team from afar and one day we will meet again! Now, I’m looking forward to my next step in my career @ittihadclub.sa ! Good luck @suwonsamsungfc ! 👊 Fighting! #forzasuwon 🔵⚪🔴

A post shared by Matthew Jurman ✞ (@matthew_jurman) on

Mark Milligan recently left Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli, while Socceroo James Troisi previously spent time at Al Ittihad. 

Al Ittihad are based in the western coastal city of Jeddah and finished ninth in the league last season.

The move could boost Jurman's hopes of playing a key role at the 2019 Asian Cup which will be played in similar conditions in the Middle East, in the United Arab Emirates in January.