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Banking in Saudi Arabia

Best banks in Saudi Arabia for expats & digital nomads

Opening a bank account is one of the first things you do after moving to Saudi Arabia. Here are the accounts that work for newcomers and non-residents, plus the fintech we would set up before you fly.

How to open a bank account in Saudi Arabia

A valid Iqama (residence permit) is the primary requirement, along with a passport, national address and a Saudi mobile number registered in your name on Absher; cash salary is non-compliant with the Wage Protection System so an account is essential. Several banks (Al Rajhi, SNB, Riyad Bank, SAB, Alinma) now allow fully digital opening via Absher/Nafath identity verification, no branch visit for most applicants.

Our top pick

Wise multi-currency account

Wise is the option we recommend for almost anyone moving to Saudi Arabia: hold and convert 40+ currencies, get local account details to be paid like a local, and send money at the real exchange rate with low, transparent fees. It works before you even arrive, so you can receive income and pay deposits while your local account is still being set up.

Open a free Wise account →

Affiliate link: we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Wise is a fintech, not a bank; balances are safeguarded, not covered by deposit insurance.

Top banks in Saudi Arabia

Al Rajhi Bank

traditional
Most expats: widest ATM network, easy opening

Most widely used bank by expats; largest ATM network, good English app, and digital opening via Absher/Nafath for Iqama holders.

Saudi National Bank (SNB)

traditional
Largest bank, professionals and premium banking

Kingdom's largest bank (formed from NCB + Samba); full product range and strong digital onboarding.

Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB)

traditional
Western expats and HSBC-linked clients

HSBC-affiliated (formerly SABB); best-in-class English support and cross-border service.

Riyad Bank

traditional
Multi-currency (USD/EUR/GBP) needs

Large bank with competitive products and foreign-currency accounts for savers.

Alinma Bank

traditional
Digital experience and Islamic finance

Sharia-compliant bank praised for its digital banking and low fees.

Arab National Bank (ANB)

traditional
All-round expat banking

Established bank with solid retail products and English support.

International accounts & neobanks

Payoneer

Available to Saudi-based freelancers/businesses to receive international payments (incl. an SAR receiving account) and withdraw to a local bank.

Availability changes; confirm on each provider's site.

Next steps in Saudi Arabia

See the full Saudi Arabia tax, cost and visa profile, or compare Saudi Arabia with other destinations. Not sure where to go yet? Take the finder quiz.