payments
How to Send Money from Saudi Arabia — Best Ways to Transfer Abroad
Saudi Arabia is one of the world's largest sources of international remittances — billions of riyals are sent abroad every month by expat workers. Whether you are sending money home to family or transferring to an overseas account, there are multiple fast, cheap options available. This guide covers the best methods, what they cost, and what to watch out for.
Highlights
- ★Saudi Arabia has no restrictions on remittances for legal residents — you can send money abroad freely with a valid Iqama.
- ★Exchange houses (Western Union, Al Rajhi Exchange, STC Pay) are the most common method used by expat workers.
- ★Wise (formerly TransferWise) offers the best exchange rates for transfers to most countries — closest to the mid-market rate.
- ★STC Pay is a popular digital wallet in Saudi Arabia that supports international transfers to 40+ countries.
- ★Al Rajhi Bank's exchange service is widely trusted and has branches everywhere — but check their rates vs. specialist services.
- ★Transfer fees range from SAR 10 (digital services) to SAR 50+ (exchange houses), but the exchange rate margin is often the bigger cost.
Who Is This For?
Expats and residents in Saudi Arabia who need to send money abroad — to their home country, to family, or to their own overseas accounts.
Directory
Best exchange rates — uses the mid-market rate with a small transparent fee. Fully digital. Transfers to 80+ countries. Requires Iqama and Saudi bank account for verification.
Saudi Arabia's leading digital wallet. Supports international transfers to 40+ countries. Fast and convenient from your phone. Widely used by expats.
Saudi Arabia's largest bank with nationwide branches and exchange counters. Reliable and widely trusted. Rates are competitive but not always the best — compare before transferring large amounts.
Available at thousands of locations including exchange houses and some pharmacies. Cash pickup available in recipient country. Fees vary by destination.
Similar to Western Union — widely available for cash transfers to 200+ countries. Good for recipients without bank accounts.
Online international wire transfers through SNB's banking app. Good for larger transfers to bank accounts. Standard SWIFT fees apply.
Practical Tips
- 💡Always compare the total cost — not just the transfer fee. The exchange rate margin is often the biggest hidden cost. A service charging SAR 5 fee but a poor rate can cost you more than one charging SAR 30 with a better rate.
- 💡For large transfers (SAR 10,000+), using a bank wire or Wise is usually cheaper than exchange houses due to better rates.
- 💡STC Pay and Wise are the most cost-effective for regular monthly transfers. Set up the account once and transfers take minutes.
- 💡Keep your Iqama valid — expired Iqama can block your ability to transfer money, especially through regulated exchange services.
- 💡Saudi Arabia requires AML (anti-money laundering) checks for large transfers. Keep proof of your salary and source of funds for transfers above SAR 5,000.
- 💡Exchange rates fluctuate — if your home currency has weakened, consider sending in smaller batches rather than one large annual transfer.
- 💡Some exchange houses offer loyalty programs or better rates for regular customers — ask at your local branch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a limit on how much money I can send from Saudi Arabia?
There is no legal cap on personal remittances for residents with valid Iqama. However, transfers above certain amounts trigger compliance checks (AML/KYC requirements). Exchange houses and banks may ask for documentation for large transfers.
Can I send money without a Saudi bank account?
Yes. Exchange houses like Western Union and MoneyGram allow cash-in transfers — you pay in cash at the counter and the recipient receives cash or a bank deposit abroad. You will need your Iqama for identification.
How long do transfers take?
Wise and STC Pay: typically 1–3 hours for most countries. Bank wire transfers (SWIFT): 1–3 business days. Western Union cash pickup: usually available within minutes to hours depending on destination.
What is the cheapest way to send money from Saudi Arabia?
Wise consistently offers the best combination of low fees and close-to-market exchange rates for bank transfers. STC Pay is competitive for smaller transfers to supported countries. Always compare before sending.
Can I send money on a visit visa?
It is possible but more difficult. Exchange houses may require an Iqama rather than just a passport for compliance reasons. Bank transfers require a Saudi bank account, which itself requires an Iqama.