Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)
๐ธ๐ฆ SAR 1 โ ๐ฎ๐ณ INR 22
At the Airport
Item | Price | Payment Method |
---|---|---|
Sim card (STC, Mobily, Zain) | From SAR 30 | Card / Cash |
eVisa fees | SAR 535 (online) | Card |
Taxi from airport to city | From SAR 50 | Card / Cash |
Bus from airport | From SAR 10 | Cash |
Pro Tip:
Download the Careem or Uber app for convenient and often cheaper rides.
Money Forms in Saudi Arabia
- SAR cash
- Credit/Debit cards (widely accepted)
- USD cash (for emergencies)
- Backup: Additional cards
Payment Acceptance
Location | Cash | Card |
---|---|---|
Small shops | (mostly) | |
Supermarkets | ||
Hotels | ||
Restaurants | ||
Taxis | (app-based) |
Activities & Transport
Service | Payment Method |
---|---|
Public buses | Cash |
Metro (in Riyadh) | Card / Cash |
Taxis | Cash / Card (app-based) |
Car rental | Card |
Tourist attractions | Card / Cash |
Shopping malls | Card / Cash |
Important Tips
Always choose to pay in SAR when using a card Never choose the INR value on the screen (includes high conversion fees) Tipping is not customary but becoming more common in tourist areas (5-10%)
Using ATMs in Saudi Arabia
- ATMs are widely available in cities and towns
- Most banks donโt charge fees for foreign card withdrawals
- Major banks: Al Rajhi Bank, Saudi National Bank, Riyad Bank
- Look for ATMs inside banks or shopping malls for added security
- Inform your bank about your travel to avoid card blocks
Daily Budget Guide
Type of Spend | Starting From |
---|---|
Stay | Budget hotels: SAR 100 Mid-range hotels: SAR 250 |
Food | Local restaurant: SAR 20-30 Mid-range restaurant: SAR 50-80 |
Transport | Metro ride: SAR 3-7 Short taxi ride: SAR 20-30 |
Sightseeing | Many attractions are free or low-cost |
This is a moderate budget. Adjust based on your travel style!
Money Exchange
- Banks and authorized money exchangers offer the best rates
- Many shopping malls have currency exchange offices
- Exchange some money at the airport for immediate needs
- Credit cards often offer better exchange rates than cash exchanges
Cultural Considerations
- Business hours may change during prayer times
- Be aware of different operating hours during Ramadan
- Dress modestly when visiting banks or official institutions
For more tips from fellow travelers who have been to Saudi Arabia, check out the latest discussions here: Niyo Travel Community
Cheers!