Currency and Payment Options in Saudi Arabia

Currency of Saudi Arabia

The currency of Saudi Arabia

The official currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR), in Arabic ريال سعودي (Riyāl suʿūdī). It was introduced in 1932 with the founding of the Kingdom and has since been a fixed part of the national identity. One Riyal is subdivided into 100 Halala – a practical decimal structure that has been in place since 1963.

Circulating coins include 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 Halala as well as 1 and 2 Riyal coins. Common banknotes include values of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 Riyal. Currently, the exchange rate in May 2025 is about 1 SAR = 0.24 EUR or 1 SAR = 0.27 USD – with the rate remaining stable against the US dollar.

Role of the Saudi Riyal worldwide

The Saudi Riyal plays a special role in the region and beyond. Since the establishment of a fixed exchange rate of 1 US dollar = 3.75 SAR in 2003 – based on the previous peg to the IMF's Special Drawing Rights – the currency enjoys a high degree of stability. This coupling ensures that international financial transactions remain predictable for travelers and investors.

The economic strength of Saudi Arabia, particularly as one of the world's leading oil exporters, further supports the currency. The Saudi Riyal is therefore considered one of the most stable currencies in the Middle East – a clear advantage for individual travelers who value reliable financial conditions.

Handling cash in Saudi Arabia

Despite the increasing trend towards cashless payment methods, cash remains an important part of everyday life in Saudi Arabia. Especially in smaller stores, traditional souqs, taxi rides, or rural areas, cash is often the preferred or even the only form of payment. For individual travelers, this means that good preparation regarding cash supply, exchange options, and security is essential.

Below you will find practical tips on how to handle cash safely and easily in Saudi Arabia – from withdrawal to secure storage.

Safety measures when handling cash

Even though Saudi Arabia is generally considered a safe travel destination, travelers should remain vigilant when handling cash. In busy areas such as markets, public transport, or shopping malls, pickpockets may be active. Therefore, it is best to carry cash close to your body – for example, in a chest pouch or money belt – and keep larger amounts in the safe of your accommodation.

When withdrawing cash, it is advisable to use well-frequented ATMs, for example, in shopping centers or bank branches. Keep an eye out for unusual devices that might indicate skimming, and cover the keypad while entering your PIN. Never write down your PIN openly and do not keep it together with the card.

Only exchange money at official places like banks or licensed exchange offices – street exchanges carry risks and should be avoided. For additional security, you can distribute cash, cards, and documents across different locations to minimize losses in case of emergency.

Currency exchange options

Saudi Arabia offers various reliable options for obtaining or exchanging cash. In cities and at airports, ATMs are widespread and usually compatible with international systems like Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, or Cirrus. Machines from major banks – such as Riyadh Bank or Al Rajhi – are considered particularly reliable. Depending on the bank, fees of between 1 and 5 euros per withdrawal may apply.

If you want to exchange cash, authorized exchange places or banks in city centers are often the best choice. They usually offer better rates than at the airport or in hotels. The latter are suitable only for small amounts immediately upon arrival. Euro or US dollar is easily exchangeable, while other currencies are rarely accepted.

Those who want to remain flexible can also use digital banking apps with multi-currency cards, such as those from providers like Revolut. These offer favorable exchange rates and easy cash availability on-site. A mix of cash and card offers the greatest security and mobility – especially on individual trips away from the major cities.

Credit cards and digital payment methods

As part of its economic modernization, Saudi Arabia has consistently expanded its payment infrastructure in recent years. Particularly in cities and tourist areas, cashless payment has become firmly established. Credit cards and digital wallets offer travelers a comfortable and secure way to make their expenses on-site – provided one understands the important conditions and fees.

Use of credit cards

Credit cards are among the common payment methods in Saudi Arabia and are easily accepted at hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and many service providers. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely used, followed by American Express, Diners Club, and JCB. Girocards with Maestro or Cirrus symbols are increasingly accepted, while V Pay cards cannot be used.

The fee structure may vary depending on the card-issuing bank. When paying with a card, travelers should expect a foreign transaction fee of 1.75–4%. Additionally, a merchant fee of 2–3% may be charged on the invoice amount, so the total costs can add up to as much as 7%. Anyone wishing to avoid fees should check their bank's conditions before departure or consider a specialized travel credit card.

Availability of contactless payment systems

Saudi Arabia is also well-equipped in the area of contactless and mobile payments. Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted and are used in many stores, at international chains, and in modern restaurants. The use is possible both in physical stores and in apps and online shops, particularly in urban regions like Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam.

A particularly popular local alternative is mada Pay, based on the Saudi debit card system. It allows for contactless payments via smartphone and is supported by numerous banks and merchants across the country. Samsung Pay is also available and can be used in combination with supported devices.

Digital payment methods provide a flexible complement to cash in Saudi Arabia – especially where modern infrastructure is available. However, in more remote areas, travelers should not forego a certain amount of cash.

Cash transactions and cultural aspects

Travelers to Saudi Arabia will encounter not only a variety of payment methods but also culturally shaped practices in handling money. Cash, in particular, plays a role in certain situations that goes beyond mere practicality. It's worthwhile to know typical everyday scenarios as well as the nuances in social and legal contexts.

Cash in everyday situations

Not everywhere in the country is card payment taken for granted – especially when the situation is personal, spontaneous, or traditional. When strolling through local markets (souqs), at street stalls, in small grocery stores, or during a taxi ride outside the metropolises, cash is often the only accepted payment method. Cash is also preferred when it comes to tipping – for example, in hotels, restaurants, or private transport services.

In many of these situations, cash not only ensures smooth processes but can also facilitate price negotiations. It is particularly common to haggle over prices in markets – a practice that works much more smoothly with cash. Therefore, anyone wanting to be well-prepared should always have smaller amounts of cash readily available.

Cultural and legal peculiarities

When paying in Saudi Arabia, not only the amount counts, but also the manner. Generosity and discretion are values that are highly appreciated when giving tips. In restaurants, a tip of about 10-15% is considered normal, provided there is no service charge included. Porters, room staff, drivers, or tour guides also appreciate a small thank you in cash. It is important to note: tipping is voluntary but should be presented respectfully – not displayed openly.

Legally, there are no restrictions on cash transactions in everyday life. However, upon entering or leaving the country, as in many countries, there are reporting obligations for larger amounts of cash starting from around 60,000 SAR. In practice, this is rarely relevant for travelers. What is crucial is to behave sensitively and culturally adapted when handling money – not least to promote authentic encounters on-site.

Practical financial tips for individual travelers

Those who embark on a trip to Saudi Arabia well-prepared not only avoid unpleasant surprises but also ensure greater security and comfort on the road. Particularly when it comes to money, thoughtful planning pays off – from selecting payment methods to handling emergencies. The following tips help to minimize financial risks and respond flexibly to all eventualities.

Special precautions and insurance options

Even before departure, some basic measures should be taken to ensure financial security. It is advisable to carry at least two different payment methods – such as a credit card and a debit card – to remain operational in case of loss or technical problems. Additionally, inform your home bank about your trip to prevent unwanted card suspensions due to supposedly suspicious international activities.

Important emergency numbers – especially for card blocking – should be carried both digitally and in paper form separately. Also useful: cash insurance or travel luggage insurance, which kicks in in the event of theft or loss. Copies of the most important travel documents should also be kept in carry-on luggage – safely stored and easily accessible. For everyday life on-site: never display cash openly, keep large sums in the hotel safe, and carry only what is necessary.

Managing and transferring large amounts of money

For longer stays or business trips, the question arises of how to manage and transfer larger sums of money safely. The safest way is typically an international bank transfer (e.g., via SWIFT) to a Saudi account – ideally organized in advance. Keep an eye on fees and transfer duration. Companies or project managers should also look into options such as export credit guarantees or letters of credit.

For ongoing needs on-site, it is advisable to split larger sums and carry only a smaller amount of cash. Cash withdrawals should preferably occur at ATMs in banks or shopping centers. And again, the same rule applies: exchange only at official places – street exchanges are not only dubious but often also illegal. Lastly, you should inform yourself in advance about legal regulations for the import and export of foreign currency to avoid formal issues at borders.

Travel well-prepared

Saudi Arabia offers travelers a stable yet dynamic payment landscape: While the Saudi Riyal is considered a reliable currency, digital payment methods and regulatory frameworks are continually evolving. For individual travelers, this means: Those who are prepared and informed can move not only securely but also flexibly through the country.

Summary of key recommendations

For a smooth travel experience, it is advisable to carry a balanced mix of cash and cards. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist facilities, but cash remains important – especially in markets, taxis, or rural areas.

Two independent payment methods, secured emergency plans (e.g., card blocking numbers), and avoiding large amounts of cash in the wallet are among the most important precautions. Travel insurance with cash protection can also be useful. Currency exchange should only occur at official places, and large transfers can be best handled via international bank connections.

Latest changes in payment transactions

The payment market in Saudi Arabia is undergoing a profound transformation. Digital solutions such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and local providers like urpay are gaining increasing importance, particularly in urban areas. The high density of smartphones in the country further accelerates this trend.

Moreover, geopolitical changes, such as the expiration of the petrodollar agreement, could have long-term effects on international transactions and currency diversification. At the same time, regulations like reporting obligations starting from 100,000 SAR or the declaration obligation for importing larger amounts of cash remain in place – important points for business travelers and long-term stays.

Tourists should also be aware of the current visa regulations, vaccination requirements, and digital application procedures, which have been tightened in 2025 – especially around pilgrimage times or for the e-transit visa. Reliable information sources such as GTAI, the Foreign Office, or Mordor Intelligence regularly provide updates on regulatory and technological developments.