Need to send money home or check today’s exchange rates? This page provides real-time exchange rates for 1 Saudi Riyal (SAR) against major international currencies. Rates update automatically throughout the day to give you the most current market information.
Today’s Exchange Rate for 1 Saudi Riyal
Understanding Exchange Rates in Saudi Arabia
Exchange rates fluctuate based on global market conditions, supply and demand, economic indicators, and geopolitical events. The rates shown above are open market reference rates, which means they represent the mid-market rate used as a benchmark.
However, when you actually exchange money or send a remittance, you’ll encounter different rates depending on where and how you transfer funds.
Related: Best Money Transfer Services in Saudi Arabia 2026
Where You Exchange Matters
The exchange rate you receive can vary depending on where and how you convert your money in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Banks
- Best suited for large or official transfers
- Slower processing times
- Exchange rates are usually lower
- Additional service charges may apply
Exchange Houses
- Generally offer better rates than banks
- Faster service for cash exchange and remittance
- Widely used by expatriates
- Rates vary by provider and location
Online Money Transfer Apps
- Often provide the most competitive rates
- Lower fees compared to banks
- Fast transfers, sometimes instant
- Rates may change frequently based on market movement
ATM Withdrawals (Outside Saudi Arabia)
- Convenient for travel
- Includes ATM and foreign bank fees
- Exchange rate may be less favorable
- Not ideal for frequent withdrawals
Example: If the market rate shows 1 SAR = 22.50 INR, a bank might offer you 21.60 INR (4% difference), while an online service might give you 22.05 INR (2% difference). On a 5,000 SAR transfer, that’s a difference of 2,250 INR!
Also See: Today’s Gold Rates in Saudi Arabia
How to Use This Exchange Rate Tool
This currency converter shows you the baseline market rate for 1 Saudi Riyal. Here’s how to use it effectively:
- For quick reference: Find your home currency in the list above to see today’s rate
- For calculating remittances: Multiply the rate by the amount you want to send (e.g., 5,000 SAR × 22.50 INR = 112,500 INR at market rate)
- For comparing offers: Use this as your benchmark when banks or money transfer services quote you rates
- For budgeting: Check rates before major purchases or travel to gauge your spending power
Important: The actual amount you receive will be slightly less than these rates due to service fees and margins. Always confirm the final rate and total fees before completing any transaction.
Popular Currency Pairs for Expats
Based on Saudi Arabia’s expat demographics, these are the most commonly exchanged currencies:
- SAR to BDT (Bangladeshi Taka): Bangladesh is the largest expat community in Saudi Arabia
- SAR to INR (Indian Rupee): One of the largest expat community in Saudi Arabia
- SAR to PKR (Pakistani Rupee): Another largest expat group
- SAR to PHP (Philippine Peso): Large Filipino community, especially in healthcare
- SAR to EGP (Egyptian Pound): Significant Egyptian expat population
- SAR to USD (US Dollar): For international purchases and travel
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does 1 SAR exchange rate mean?
It shows the value of one Saudi Riyal (SAR) when converted to another currency at current open market rates. This is the baseline rate before any fees or margins are applied.
Are these exchange rates updated daily?
Yes, the exchange rates are updated automatically throughout the day to reflect real-time market conditions. The page shows live data from currency markets.
Are these rates applicable for bank transfers?
Not exactly. These are reference rates. Banks typically offer rates 2-4% below the market rate shown here, plus they charge transfer fees. Always ask your bank for their final offered rate including all charges.
Can I use these rates for sending money abroad?
These rates are useful as a benchmark for comparison. When a money transfer service quotes you a rate, compare it against this market rate to see their markup. A difference of 1-2% is reasonable; anything above 3-4% means you should shop around.
Why do exchange rates change frequently?
Exchange rates fluctuate based on global supply and demand for currencies, which is influenced by economic data, interest rate decisions, inflation, political events, trade balances, and market sentiment. Rates can change minute by minute during active trading hours.
Is this an official Saudi government exchange rate?
No. These are open market reference rates, not official central bank rates.
Which is better for sending money: banks or exchange houses?
It depends on the amount. Exchange houses typically offer better rates for smaller amounts (under 5,000 SAR) with lower fees. Banks may be better for large amounts due to security and documentation. Online services providers often beat both for convenience and rates.
What’s the difference between buy rate and sell rate?
The buy rate is what you get when selling SAR (sending money home). The sell rate is what you pay when buying SAR (receiving money). The difference between them is the exchange provider’s profit margin.
Disclaimer: Exchange rates shown are indicative open market rates and may vary across banks, money exchangers, and transfer platforms. Always confirm the final rate and total fees before making any financial transaction. This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.