The Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) published payments data showing electronic payments accounted for 85% of total retail payments in 2025, up from 79% in 2024. Electronic transactions increased to 14.6 billion in 2025 from 12.6 billion in 2024, supported by higher volumes through the “mada” payments system, particularly point-of-sale and e-commerce payments, alongside growth across other national payment systems. The update links the continued shift away from cash to SAMA-led initiatives with the financial sector to expand digital payment options in line with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives. SAMA indicated it will continue expanding payment options and promoting digital payments by advancing national payment systems infrastructure and enhancing related solutions.
Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority 2026-04-12
Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority reports electronic payments reached 85% of retail payments in 2025 with 14.6 billion transactions
The Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority published data showing electronic payments accounted for 85% of total retail payments in 2025, up from 79% in 2024, with electronic transactions rising to 14.6 billion from 12.6 billion. SAMA attributed the shift away from cash to increased use of the “mada” payments system and other national payment systems, and stated it will continue to expand payment options and promote digital payments in line with Saudi Vision 2030.