Best Credit Cards in Saudi Arabia for Expats (2026)

Yes. Most Saudi banks offer credit cards to expats with valid Iqama, salary transfer to the bank, and minimum salary of 5,000-8,000 SAR depending on the card. You typically need 3-6 months of employment history in Saudi Arabia. Some banks offer instant pre-approved cards to existing salary account holders.

Minimum salary requirements vary: basic cards require 5,000-7,000 SAR/month, mid-tier cards require 7,000-15,000 SAR/month, and premium cards require 15,000+ SAR/month. Some banks offer secured credit cards (backed by a deposit) with no minimum salary requirement.

Many Saudi credit cards are Sharia-compliant (they use a Tawarruq or Murabaha structure instead of traditional interest). Banks like Al Rajhi and Riyad Bank offer fully Islamic credit cards. Other banks (SABB, Emirates NBD) offer conventional cards. Both types function the same way for purchases - the difference is in how late payment charges are structured.

Mada is Saudi Arabia's debit card network (similar to Maestro/Visa Debit) - it deducts money directly from your bank account. Credit cards provide a credit line that you pay back monthly. Every Saudi bank account comes with a mada card. Credit cards require separate application and approval. Most merchants accept both mada and Visa/Mastercard credit cards.

For existing bank customers with salary transfer, approval can be instant (pre-approved offers) or 1-3 business days. For new applications, expect 5-10 business days including SIMAH credit check and salary verification. Premium cards may take longer due to additional verification. Card delivery takes 3-7 days after approval.

You must settle your full outstanding credit card balance before final exit from Saudi Arabia. Banks require full settlement before issuing a no-objection letter for final exit. If you leave with outstanding balances, the bank can take legal action, and you may face a travel ban if you return. Always settle all credit obligations before departure.

Yes. Visa and Mastercard credit cards issued in Saudi Arabia work internationally. Most cards charge 2-3% foreign transaction fee on purchases in other currencies. Some premium cards (like SABB Infinite) waive foreign transaction fees. mada cards have limited international acceptance - use your credit card when traveling abroad.

SIMAH is Saudi Arabia's credit bureau (equivalent to credit score agencies). It tracks your payment history, existing debts, and financial behavior. Banks check SIMAH when you apply for a credit card. A clean SIMAH record (no defaults or late payments) is essential for approval. Late payments on any financial obligation will appear on SIMAH and can hurt future applications.