Currency & Payment

Saudi Arabia uses the Saudi riyal (SAR, ﷼ or SR), divided into 100 halalas. The riyal is pegged to the US dollar, so its value is stable. Notes come in several denominations and coins are used for small change. Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted, but keep some cash for small shops and taxis.

You can exchange money at banks and licensed exchange houses in cities, airports and malls. Because the riyal is pegged to the US dollar, rates are fairly consistent. Compare a few exchange houses and check fees. ATM withdrawals often give a convenient rate, and cards are accepted almost everywhere.

Cards are widely accepted across Saudi Arabia, and contactless payment is common. Visa and Mastercard work almost everywhere, and the domestic mada network is used for local debit cards. Hotels, malls, restaurants and many shops take cards, but small shops, souqs and some taxis may prefer cash.

ATMs are widespread in Saudi Arabia, found at banks, malls, airports and petrol stations, and most accept international cards. They dispense riyals and usually have an English menu. Watch out for foreign-card fees, and always decline home-currency conversion (DCC) to get the better rate.

Mobile payment is popular in Saudi Arabia. Apple Pay and Google Pay work almost anywhere cards are accepted, and local options such as mada Pay and STC Pay are widely used by residents. For visitors, adding your card to Apple Pay or Google Pay is the easiest way to pay by phone.

Tipping in Saudi Arabia is optional, but leaving around 10-15% for good service is becoming increasingly common in restaurants. Some venues add a service charge, so check the bill first. Small tips for hotel staff, drivers and porters are appreciated but not required.

Prices vary widely in Saudi Arabia, with Riyadh and Jeddah being the most expensive cities. Hotels and taxis can add up, but local restaurants, street food and shawarma are affordable. Note that a value-added tax (VAT) applies to most goods and services. Bottled water and ride-hailing apps help keep everyday costs down.

Saudi Arabia has been introducing a VAT refund scheme for tourists on eligible purchases, but the details and rollout can change. If it applies, ask participating shops for a tax-free form and follow the validation steps when you leave the country. Conditions and minimum spend may apply, so confirm the current position with official sources (ZATCA) before you travel.