Money, Payments & Currency Tips for Visitors to Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦

Whether you’re visiting for business, tourism, Umrah, or preparing for the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2034, understanding how money works in Saudi Arabia will make your trip smoother, safer, and more convenient.

Here’s your complete financial guide before landing in the Kingdom.

1️⃣ The Official Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)

Saudi Arabia uses the Saudi Riyal (SAR).

• Symbol: ﷼
• Code: SAR
• Subunit: 1 Riyal = 100 Halalas
• The Riyal is pegged to the US Dollar, meaning the exchange rate is very stable (approximately 1 USD ≈ 3.75 SAR).

Because of this fixed peg, currency fluctuations are minimal compared to many other destinations.

2️⃣ Should You Bring Cash?

Saudi Arabia is increasingly cash-light and card-friendly, especially in major cities like:

• Riyadh
• Jeddah
• Dammam

✅ Where Cards Are Widely Accepted:

• Hotels
• Shopping malls
• Restaurants & cafés
• Ride apps
• Supermarkets
• Tourist attractions

💵 When You May Need Cash:

• Small local shops
• Traditional markets (souqs)
• Remote desert areas
• Small taxi operators

Tip: Carry around 200–500 SAR in cash for small purchases, but rely mostly on cards.

3️⃣ Credit & Debit Cards: What Works?

Saudi Arabia has excellent card acceptance infrastructure.

Accepted Cards:

• Visa
• Mastercard
• American Express (in major outlets)
• Mada (local Saudi debit network)

Contactless payments are extremely common. Simply tap and go.

Pro Tip: Inform your bank before traveling to avoid international transaction blocks.

4️⃣ Mobile Payments & Digital Wallets

Saudi Arabia is one of the fastest-growing digital payment markets in the Middle East.

Popular options include:

• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• STC Pay

Many stores prefer digital payments — even small coffee shops accept contactless.

5️⃣ ATMs & Currency Exchange

ATMs are everywhere in cities and shopping centers. They are safe and reliable.

ATM Tips:

• Choose machines inside banks or malls for extra security.
• Decline “dynamic currency conversion” if offered — let your bank handle conversion for better rates.
• Check your bank’s foreign withdrawal fees.

Currency Exchange:

Exchange services are available at:

• Airports
• Major malls
• Licensed exchange centers

Airport rates are usually slightly higher, so exchange only small amounts upon arrival.

6️⃣ Budgeting: What Things Cost in Saudi Arabia

Prices vary depending on city and lifestyle.

Everyday Costs (Approximate):

• Coffee: 10–20 SAR
• Fast food meal: 25–40 SAR
• Mid-range restaurant: 50–100 SAR
• Taxi ride (short city trip): 15–40 SAR

Luxury dining and premium hotels can be significantly higher.

7️⃣ Tipping Culture

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

• Restaurants: 5–10% if service charge isn’t included
• Hotel staff: 5–20 SAR
• Taxi drivers: Round up the fare

In high-end venues, service charges are often included in the bill.

8️⃣ Is Saudi Arabia Expensive?

Saudi Arabia can be:

• Affordable for food and transportation
• Mid-to-high range for hotels
• Premium-priced in luxury districts and mega-project destinations

Major events (like international tournaments) may increase accommodation and transport prices temporarily.

9️⃣ Safety & Financial Security

Saudi Arabia is generally very safe.

Financial safety tips:

• Use official exchange centers
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Keep receipts for VAT refunds (tourists may be eligible)
• Use hotel safes for large sums

🔟 VAT (Value Added Tax)

Saudi Arabia applies 15% VAT on most goods and services.

The price you see usually includes VAT, but always check your receipt.

Final Travel Money Checklist

Before You Travel:
✔ Inform your bank
✔ Bring at least two payment cards
✔ Exchange a small amount of cash
✔ Enable international transactions
✔ Set up mobile wallet payments

Final Thoughts

Saudi Arabia combines modern financial infrastructure with traditional hospitality. Whether you’re exploring ancient heritage sites, futuristic mega-projects, or preparing for the FIFA World Cup 2034, managing money in the Kingdom is simple if you plan ahead.

With stable currency, widespread digital payments, and strong banking systems, visitors can travel confidently and focus on enjoying the experience.