Currency and money matters Saudi Arabia

Currency and money matters Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, the currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). At the time of writing, the exchange rate is: SAR 1.00 = €0.23. Here you can see the current exchange rate. In circulation are coins of 1 and 2 Saudi Riyal, in addition to bills of 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 Saudi Riyal. Maestro debit cards are accepted everywhere. It is also possible to pay with services such as Apple and Google Pay. Your debit card is set by default for use in Europe. Are you going to travel to Saudi Arabia? Then adjust your profile to 'World'. In towns and cities a credit card comes in handy. So to be on the safe side, carry a credit card as well as cash with you.

If you plan to withdraw or exchange money, it is best to do so after you land. Major airports in Saudi Arabia, such as King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, have currency exchange offices and ATMs where you can withdraw riyals.

The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is about 1.5 times lower than in The Netherlands. A meal for two in a mid-range restaurant costs an average of €40 and 0.33L soft drinks an average of €0.80.

Tipping is common in Saudi Arabia. Most of the time in restaurants, hotels and other hospitality industry you will encounter guest workers. Often from India and Pakistan but also from African countries. Wages for guest workers are low in Saudi Arabia and often these workers depend on tipping. 10% is common.

The guest workers themselves usually eat at local Indian restaurants. If you want delicious food for little, walk in and take a seat.