Managing Money in Madinah: Operational Payment Options in Saudi

Managing Money in Madinah: Operational Payment Options in Saudi

For tourists, navigating payments in Madinah is straightforward with the right tools. Based on current operational status, here are your best and most reliable options.

1. Pre-Paid Travel Cards (The Top Recommendation)

This is the most efficient and cost-effective way to manage your money. These are physical or virtual cards you load with funds before your trip.

• How They Work: You load the card with your home currency via an app and convert it to Saudi Riyals (SAR) at excellent exchange rates.
• Examples: Wise, Revolut, Payoneer.
• Why They’re Best:
  • Superior Rates: Offer far better exchange rates than airports or hotels.
  • Budget Control: You only spend what you pre-load.
  • Security: Not linked to your main bank account. Cards can be frozen instantly via their app if lost.
  • Widely Accepted: Can be used at any ATM in Madinah for cash withdrawals and at most stores with card terminals.

2. International Credit/Debit Cards (A Reliable Backup)

Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted at all established businesses, malls, supermarkets, and hotels.

• How to Use: Simply insert or swipe your physical card at the point-of-sale terminal.
• Important Check:Contact your bank before you travel to:
  • Inform them of your travel dates to avoid your card being blocked for “suspicious activity.”
  • Ask about foreign transaction fees (typically 2-3% of each purchase) and international ATM withdrawal fees.
• Status: 100% operational and a dependable payment method everywhere except for small cash-only vendors.

3. Apple Pay (The Primary Digital Wallet)

Apple Pay is fully operational and widely accepted across Saudi Arabia. It is the dominant and most reliable mobile payment system for tourists.

• How to Use: Link your international credit/debit card or your pre-paid travel card to the Apple Wallet app. At checkout, hold your iPhone near the payment terminal.
• Where it Works: Accepted at most modern retailers, supermarkets (Panda, Carrefour), shopping malls, cafes, chain restaurants, and for ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem).
• Security: Uses tokenization, so your actual card number is never shared with merchants.

4. Google Pay: Coming Soon

Please Note: As of mid-2025, Google Pay is not yet operational for direct payments in Saudi Arabia.

• Official Update: However, according to official statements from the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), a launch is anticipated within the year 2025. The system will be rolled out in partnership with local banks and payment networks.
• Recommendation: Tourists should not rely on Google Pay for their upcoming trip until an official launch is confirmed by Google and local banks. Continue to use the operational options listed above.

5. Cash (Saudi Riyals – SAR) (Essential)

Despite the digital shift, cash remains essential for a smooth experience in certain situations.

• You will need cash for:
  • Small, traditional shops and souks.
  • Independent taxi drivers (not booked through an app).
  • Making donations around the Prophet’s Mosque and other holy sites.
  • Purchasing from street vendors or small market stalls.
• How to Get It: Use your Pre-Paid Travel Card or International Debit Card at any ATM to withdraw Saudi Riyals. This gives you a better rate than exchanging physical currency at an airport.

Summary: Your Practical Payment Strategy

1. Primary Tool: Get a Pre-Paid Travel Card (e.g., Wise, Revolut) before your trip for the best rates and low fees.
2. For Daily Spending: Use Apple Pay or Samsung Pay linked to your travel card for quick, secure contactless payments in stores and malls.
3. For Cash Needs: Use your Travel Card at ATMs to withdraw Saudi Riyals for small vendors and donations.
4. Reliable Backup: Carry your physical international Visa/Mastercard as a backup for all situations.
5. Watch for Updates: Keep an eye on official news for the launch of Google Pay later this year, but do not plan your current trip around it.

By combining these operational options, you can ensure secure, convenient, and cost-effective financial management throughout your visit to Madinah.