ATMs and cards in Saudi Arabia

Practical rules for getting riyals, from ATM Fee Saver (updated February 2026) and the Ministry guide.

Information only. Rules, permits and timings change, so confirm with official sources and your scholar before you travel. We do not sell, book or guarantee anything.

ATMs

ATMs are widely available in major cities, and most work 24 hours with Arabic and English menus. Cash comes out in Saudi riyals only. The maximum per transaction is reported as SAR 5,000.

Fees

Most bank ATMs do not charge foreign cardholders an access fee, though one bank ATM may charge SAR 21 per transaction. Your own bank may add a foreign transaction or conversion fee, so check before you travel.

Dynamic currency conversion

Some ATMs ask whether to charge in your home currency or in SAR. Decline the conversion and choose SAR, because accepting means the ATM converts at its own rate and adds a fee.

Which cards work

Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus and Cirrus are generally accepted. American Express, JCB, UnionPay, Diners and Discover are generally not. Shops at the airport arrival hall accept cards including Mada and Apple Pay as well as cash.

Safety

Use ATMs in well lit, busy places or inside bank branches, and cover the keypad. Do not share your card details with anyone. See our money page for exchange rules and declaration limits, and our scams page.

Frequently asked

How much can I withdraw from a Saudi ATM?

One source reports a maximum of SAR 5,000 per transaction.

Should I accept the ATM currency conversion?

No, choose SAR, so your card network's rate applies.

Do foreign cards work in Saudi ATMs?

Visa and Mastercard generally do. American Express generally does not.

Sources

Reviewed by the Makkah Madina Guide editorial team on 20 October 2026.