🇸🇦 How to Pay in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has modernized rapidly, and apps are central to daily life. Careem is the go-to for rides, while HungerStation and Jahez dominate food delivery. The Mada payment network is everywhere, and contactless payments work at most places. If you are visiting for Hajj or Umrah, the Nusuk app is mandatory for permits and scheduling. WhatsApp is the universal communication tool. Note that the country is vast, so plan long-distance travel carefully using SAPTCO or domestic flights. Temperatures can be extreme, so expect to rely on ride-hailing rather than walking for most errands.

Payment & Finance Apps

Mada

Essential

Saudi Arabia's national payment network. Mada cards (debit) are used everywhere, and the Mada Pay app enables contactless phone payments. Most shops, restaurants, and even street vendors accept Mada.

Pro tip: While you likely won't get a Mada card as a tourist, knowing that Mada terminals accept Visa and Mastercard contactless payments means your existing cards should work at most places.

STC Pay

Nice to have

A popular Saudi digital wallet by the national telecom company STC. Allows money transfers, bill payments, and in-store payments via QR code.

All apps in Saudi Arabia →Saudi Arabia Payments guide →