Just landed in Saudi and not a physical Riyal in your pocket? No problem because SAMA just made some ground-breaking announcements.
The Kingdom is quickly becoming a global favorite when it comes to tourism. The spike can be attributed to winter celebrations like Riyadh Season, the city-wide activations of Jeddah Season, MDLBEAST Soundstorm, Noor Riyadh, Riyadh International Book Fair, and more.
With so many tourists visiting for the first time or returning for the umpteenth time, financial transactions need to be smoothened.
As such, the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has legalized the use of Saudi visitor ID to open bank accounts.
That’s right, you do not need to hold Saudi citizenship or residency to open bank accounts. No more struggling with money transfer apps and random exchange rates.
Here is everything to know about Saudi visitor ID to open bank accounts announcement.
Saudi visitor ID to open bank accounts 2025
SAMA, short for the Saudi Central Bank, has been at the heart of Saudi Arabia’s financial system since 1952. Once known as the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority, it’s the institution behind the Saudi Riyal, keeping the country’s money matters stable and secure.
From supervising banks and managing foreign reserves to maintaining steady prices and exchange rates, SAMA ensures the financial system runs smoothly. It also operates key electronic payment systems like MADA, SARIE, and SADAD, making everyday banking and transactions across the Kingdom fast and reliable,
Saudi visitor ID to open bank accounts benefits
Saudi Arabia just made life a whole lot easier for visitors. The new “Visitor ID,” issued by the Ministry of Interior, can now be verified through official digital platforms, making it a key to smoother travel and banking experiences. It’s all part of Vision 2030’s push to make the Kingdom more welcoming, connected, and tech-savvy for tourists, business travelers, and pilgrims alike.
This update isn’t random, it’s part of a regular review to keep regulations in step with the market’s needs. By recognizing the Visitor ID, the move simplifies how visitors open bank accounts, boosts financial inclusion, and fuels the digital transformation happening across Saudi banking services.
With this change, visitors no longer need to rely solely on cash. Linking a bank account to their Visitor ID through the Absher platform means they can now use mobile wallets, make digital payments, and enjoy a seamless, modern financial experience while exploring the Kingdom.
More reforms in Saudi
In addition to the Saudi visitor ID to open bank accounts, the Kingdom has also introduced new measures aimed at reducing real estate prices. For those needing fast cash, the Kingdom’s flexible salary initiative provides an easy advance-pay option, while a new voluntary pension and savings program has also been launched. The Saudi Expropriation law has also been updated. New land tax zones have also been revealed.
Across Saudi, sama.com.
