Saudi Riyal Guide: Cash & Cards for International Pilgrims

Managing Money in Saudi Arabia

The official currency of Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). It is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of $1 USD = 3.75 SAR. Understanding how money works in the Kingdom will save you time and exchange fees during your trip.

Cash vs. Cards: A Cashless Push

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has aggressively pushed towards a cashless society. The local payment network, Mada, is accepted virtually everywhere.

Where Cards (Visa/Mastercard/Apple Pay) are Accepted:

• Hotels and premium restaurants
• Shopping malls and large supermarkets (e.g., Bin Dawood, Panda)
• Pharmacies
• Ride-hailing apps and premium taxi services (like Taxi Saudi Arabia)
• Most shops around the Haram in Makkah and Madinah

Note: Apple Pay and Google Pay are extremely popular and accepted at 99% of contactless terminals in the country.

When You Will Need Cash:

• Tipping hotel porters or bellboys.
• Buying from street vendors, small tea stalls, or local markets (Souqs).
• Donating Sadaqah (charity) in the mosques.
• Some smaller, older laundromats or barbershops.

Currency Exchange Tips

1. At the Airport: Exchange a small amount (e.g., $50-$100) at Jeddah or Madinah airport for immediate cash needs. Airport rates are usually slightly worse than city rates.
2. In Makkah/Madinah: There are dozens of currency exchange offices (like Al-Amoudi or Al-Rajhi) right outside the Haram boundaries. They offer highly competitive rates, especially for major currencies (USD, EUR, GBP).
3. ATMs: ATMs are everywhere and are the best way to get Riyals. Check your home bank's foreign transaction fees. Using an ATM usually gives a better conversion rate than a physical exchange counter.

What to Pack

Bring a Visa or Mastercard with no foreign transaction fees, set up Apple/Google Pay on your phone, and carry about 500 SAR in small denominations (5, 10, and 50 Riyal notes) for daily minor expenses and tips.