Riyadh | BETH
24 Shawwal 1447H | 12 April 2026

The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) announced that the share of electronic payments reached 85% of the total number of payment transactions executed in the retail sector (individuals) by the end of 2025, compared to 79% recorded in 2024. This milestone reflects the accelerating pace of digital transformation within the Kingdom’s financial sector.

Overview

This achievement coincided with significant growth in the Kingdom’s national payment systems during 2025, with the number of electronic payment transactions reaching approximately 14.6 billion, compared to 12.6 billion transactions in the previous year.

These figures highlight the advanced global standing Saudi Arabia has achieved in digital payments, supported by the record performance of the national payment system “mada”, both in card payments through point-of-sale (POS) terminals and e-commerce transactions, in addition to the continuous increase in transaction volumes processed through other national payment systems.

This progress is the result of strategic initiatives launched by the Saudi Central Bank in collaboration with the financial sector to support the growth of the payments industry and encourage the adoption of diverse electronic payment options. These efforts contribute to achieving the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, particularly in reducing reliance on cash and enhancing the digitalization of payments.

Furthermore, the Saudi Central Bank continues to expand the adoption of electronic payment methods by developing the infrastructure of national payment systems and enhancing the quality of digital payment solutions. These initiatives aim to facilitate financial transactions, improve their efficiency, reduce costs, and support economic activities across the Kingdom.

BETH Analysis

The increase in the share of electronic payments to 85% reflects a qualitative shift in consumer behavior and growing confidence in the Kingdom’s digital financial infrastructure. It also underscores the success of the regulatory and technological policies led by the Saudi Central Bank in building an integrated digital economy. This advancement strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading financial and technological hub in the region and supports its efforts toward achieving a more efficient and sustainable economy.