SAUDI EXPATRIATES

The change is happening because digital transfers are fast, safe, and easy. Recommend: Proposed new amendments to Saudi Labor Lawa violations and penalties table

➤ 59% of people in Saudi Arabia now send money through apps.

➤ 47% say apps are safer, quicker, and more private.

➤ 43% like apps because they are simple to use.

➤ Confidence in digital transfers went up 6% compared to last year.

The study also found that 93% of people send money at least once a year, and many do it more often.

Ali Bailoun, Visa’s Regional General Manager for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman, said:

“Fast, simple, and secure payments can make a big difference for people who send money abroad to help their families.”

✅ 51% send money for humanitarian needs.

✅ 42% send money to support family or loved ones.

Saudi Arabia has millions of expatriate workers, so remittances are critical. In 2024, remittances from Saudi Arabia reached SAR 144 billion, the highest in three years. Most Viewed: Saudi Arabia tightens penalties for traffic violations on expats

Even with the rise of digital apps, some problems remain:

🔹 29% say high fees make sending money difficult.

🔹 33% say receiving costs are still high for their families.

This shows more work is needed to make digital remittances cheaper and easier for everyone.

Visa’s New Services Visa is expanding Visa Direct, a service that lets people send money instantly to bank accounts, cards, or digital wallets worldwide. By working with local banks and financial institutions, Visa wants to make cross-border transfers simpler and faster in Saudi Arabia.

For many in Saudi Arabia, digital apps are now the main way to send money abroad. With stronger security, easier use, and growing trust, sending money digitally is becoming the best choice.

Instead of using cash or waiting in line, more people are turning to apps for quick and secure transfers to support loved ones abroad. Follow Saudi Expatriates on LinkedIn