Living in Saudi Arabia as an expatriate comes with financial considerations that differ from those of Saudi nationals. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right credit card. Whether you need to manage daily expenses, earn rewards, travel frequently, or simply want a backup payment method, the right card can make a significant difference in your financial life.
This guide covers everything expats need to know about credit cards in Saudi Arabia — from eligibility requirements and the best cards available to application tips and important regulations you should be aware of.
Are Credit Cards Widely Accepted in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted across the Kingdom. Both Visa and Mastercard are accepted at millions of merchants, restaurants, hotels, supermarkets, and online stores throughout Saudi Arabia. You can also use your credit card for:
- Shopping at malls and retail stores
- Paying at restaurants and cafes
- Booking hotels and flights
- Online shopping (local and international)
- Paying government fees via SADAD
- Taxi and ride-hailing apps
- Fuel stations
While card payments are common, it’s still wise to carry some cash for smaller shops, markets, and certain service providers who may prefer cash transactions.
Can Expats Get a Credit Card in Saudi Arabia?
Absolutely. Most Saudi banks welcome expatriate applications, though the requirements are slightly different from those for Saudi nationals.
Eligibility Requirements for Expats
To apply for a credit card in Saudi Arabia as an expatriate, you typically need:
- Valid Iqama: Your residency permit must have at least 6-12 months remaining validity. Some premium cards require 12-24 months.
- Minimum Salary: Usually SAR 4,000-5,000 per month for basic cards. Premium cards may require SAR 8,000-15,000 or higher.
- Salary Transfer: Most banks require your salary to be transferred to an account with them.
- Bank Account History: Maintaining a stable salary account for 3-6 months improves your approval chances significantly.
- Employment Verification: A salary certificate from your employer on official letterhead.
- Good Credit Record: A clean record with SIMAH (Saudi Credit Information Company). (How to check your credit score)
Best Credit Cards for Expats in Saudi Arabia 2026
After analyzing offerings from major Saudi banks, here are our top recommendations for expatriates based on different needs and spending habits.
1. SNB Global Multi-Currency Credit Card
Best For: Frequent international travelers and online shoppers
This card stands out for expats with international spending needs. It supports multiple currencies with 0% foreign exchange markup, which is a significant advantage if you shop online in different currencies or travel frequently.
Key Features:
- Zero forex markup on international transactions
- Multiple currency support
- Airport lounge access
- Travel insurance coverage
- Flexible payment options
Why It’s Great for Expats: If you regularly send money abroad, shop on international websites, or travel outside Saudi Arabia, this card eliminates the typical 2.5-3% forex fees that most cards charge.
2. Al Rajhi Platinum Credit Card
Best For: Islamic banking preference and accessible eligibility
Al Rajhi Bank, one of the largest Islamic banks in the region, offers a fully Shariah-compliant credit card based on Murabaha financing. It’s particularly accessible for existing account holders.
Key Features:
- Welcome bonus of 25,000 Mokafaa points (after spending SAR 15,000 in 90 days)
- Earn 3 points per SAR 1 on domestic spend, 5 points on international spend
- Access to over 25 global airport lounges
- Cash withdrawal up to 30% of credit limit
- 0% installment plans through partner merchants
- NFC payments via Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and MADA Pay
Why It’s Great for Expats: Al Rajhi has strong expat-friendly policies, a massive branch network across Saudi Arabia, and offers lower income requirements for existing account holders. The Islamic compliance is important for Muslim expats seeking Shariah-compliant financial products.
3. Alinma Infinite Credit Card
Best For: Premium benefits and rewards enthusiasts
Alinma Bank offers feature-rich cards with strong rewards through their “Akthr” loyalty program.
Key Features:
- Competitive rewards earning rates
- Purchase protection coverage
- Exclusive offers and discounts
- Airport lounge access worldwide
- Flexible installment programs
- Shariah-compliant structure
Why It’s Great for Expats: Alinma is known for efficient digital banking services and reasonable eligibility criteria. Their mobile app makes account management straightforward, which is helpful for expats who prefer digital banking.
4. Alinma AlFursan Credit Cards (Platinum/Signature/Infinite)
Best For: Saudia Airlines frequent flyers
If you travel frequently on Saudia, these co-branded cards with the AlFursan loyalty program offer excellent value.
Key Features:
- Earn up to 90,000 bonus miles annually (Infinite tier)
- 1 mile per SAR 1 spent internationally
- 1 mile per SAR 2.5-4 spent locally (varies by card tier)
- AlFursan lounge access
- Welcome miles bonus
- Monthly bonus miles
Why It’s Great for Expats: Many expats travel home regularly or fly for business. These cards accelerate your mile earning significantly compared to standard credit card rewards, making flights more affordable over time.
5. FAB KSA Credit Cards (Platinum/World Mastercard)
Best For: Cashback seekers and regional travelers
First Abu Dhabi Bank’s Saudi Arabian branch offers competitive cards with solid rewards and travel benefits.
Key Features:
- Cashback on various spending categories
- Complimentary airport lounge access (including guest access with World Mastercard)
- Mastercard Travel Pass benefits
- Exclusive merchant discounts
- Competitive profit rates
Why It’s Great for Expats: FAB has experience serving expatriates across the GCC region. Their cards often come with promotional offers including waived annual fees.
6. Riyad Bank Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card
Best For: Everyday cashback and local spending
For expats who want straightforward cash rewards on daily purchases, Riyad Bank offers competitive cashback rates.
Key Features:
- Up to 10% cashback on selected categories
- 5% cashback on dining, groceries, entertainment, pharmacies, and fuel
- 24/7 concierge service
- Muvi Cinema buy-one-get-one free offer
- 0% installment plans at partner merchants
- Travel and purchase protection
Why It’s Great for Expats: The category-based cashback works well for families or individuals with predictable monthly expenses in groceries, dining, and fuel.
7. SNB Flexi Credit Card
Best For: Budget-conscious expats seeking zero fees
This innovative card from Saudi National Bank offers a unique proposition.
Key Features:
- Zero annual fee
- Zero annual percentage rate for local transactions
- Four equal installments for purchases
- Simple and transparent structure
Why It’s Great for Expats: Perfect for expats who want basic credit card functionality without annual fees or complicated reward structures.
8. meem Platinum Credit Card
Best For: Digital banking enthusiasts
meem by Gulf International Bank offers a fully digital banking experience.
Key Features:
- Flexible installment programs
- Rewards program
- Low foreign exchange charges
- Access to 25+ airport lounges worldwide
- 6 complimentary lounge visits annually
- Full digital application and management
Why It’s Great for Expats: The entirely app-based banking experience appeals to tech-savvy expats. Account opening and card management can be done without visiting a branch.
Credit Cards Without Salary Transfer
While most banks prefer salary transfer, some options exist for expats who cannot or prefer not to transfer their salary:
- SAB Visa “My Card”: A low-limit Shariah-compliant card with minimal income requirements
- Secured Credit Cards: Some banks offer cards secured against a fixed deposit
- Higher Income Requirements: Banks may approve applications without salary transfer if your income is significantly higher than minimum requirements
Keep in mind that approval rates are generally higher and credit limits more generous when you have salary transfer with the issuing bank.
Understanding Islamic Credit Cards
All major Saudi banks offer Shariah-compliant credit cards, which is important for Muslim expats. These cards operate differently from conventional credit cards:
How They Work:
- Based on Murabaha (cost-plus financing) or Tawarruq (commodity trading) structures
- No interest charged; instead, a pre-agreed profit margin
- Late payment penalties go to charity rather than the bank’s profit
- Supervised by each bank’s Shariah board
Major Islamic Card Providers:
- Al Rajhi Bank (fully Islamic bank)
- Alinma Bank (fully Islamic bank)
- Bank Albilad (fully Islamic bank)
- Riyad Bank (Islamic products available)
- Saudi National Bank (Islamic products available)
For Muslim expats, using Islamic credit cards ensures financial transactions align with religious principles while still providing modern banking conveniences.
How to Apply for a Credit Card in Saudi Arabia
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather the following:
- Valid Iqama (with sufficient validity remaining)
- Passport copy
- Salary certificate from employer (recent, on letterhead)
- Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
- Employment contract (some banks)
Step 2: Choose Your Bank Wisely
Consider:
- Banks where you already have an account
- Banks where your salary is transferred
- Banks with expat-friendly policies
- Card features that match your needs
Step 3: Apply Through the Right Channel
Options:
- Mobile App: Most banks now offer in-app applications
- Online Banking: Apply through the bank’s website
- Branch Visit: Still required for some banks or premium cards
Digital applications generally process faster.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
- Basic cards: 7-14 days
- Premium cards: 14-30 days
- Existing customers often get faster processing
You’ll receive SMS notification upon approval, along with tracking details for card delivery.
Step 5: Activate Your Card
Activation methods include:
- Bank ATM
- Mobile banking app
- Internet banking
- Customer service call
Tips for Expats Applying for Credit Cards
Build a Banking Relationship First:
Open a salary account 3-6 months before applying. Maintain a positive balance and regular transactions. This significantly improves approval odds.
Start with Appropriate Cards:
Don’t apply for premium cards without qualifying income. Begin with entry-level cards and upgrade after building history.
Keep Your Iqama Updated:
Ensure you have enough Iqama validity before applying. Banks may reject applications with expiring Iqamas.
Check SIMAH Before Applying:
Request your free annual credit report to ensure no issues that might cause rejection.
Apply During Promotions:
Banks frequently offer waived annual fees, bonus rewards, or relaxed criteria during promotional periods.
Related: SAMA Reduces Fees for Key Banking Services
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum salary to get a credit card in Saudi Arabia?
Basic cards typically require SAR 3,000-5,000 monthly salary for Saudis and SAR 4,000-5,000 for expats. Premium cards may require SAR 8,000-25,000 or more depending on the card type and bank.
Can I get a credit card without salary transfer?
Yes, but it’s more difficult. Some banks accept applications without salary transfer if you meet higher income thresholds or provide additional documentation. Approval rates are lower.
What happens to my credit card if I leave Saudi Arabia?
You must settle all outstanding balances before your final exit. Unpaid credit card debt can lead to travel bans and legal issues. Always close your accounts properly when leaving the country permanently.
Can I use my Saudi credit card internationally?
Yes, Saudi credit cards work internationally wherever Visa or Mastercard are accepted. Be aware of foreign transaction fees, which typically range from 2.5-3% unless you have a card with reduced forex charges.
How long does credit card approval take?
Typically 7-14 days for standard cards and up to 30 days for premium cards. Existing bank customers often receive faster processing.
Are credit card rewards Halal?
Islamic banks structure their rewards programs using profit-sharing principles rather than interest-based mechanisms. Cards from Islamic banks like Al Rajhi, Alinma, and Bank Albilad are approved by their Shariah boards. However, individual interpretations vary, so consult with religious advisors if uncertain.
Conclusion
Choosing the right credit card as an expat in Saudi Arabia depends on your specific needs. For international travelers, the SNB Global Multi-Currency Card offers excellent value. If you prefer Islamic banking, Al Rajhi and Alinma provide comprehensive Shariah-compliant options. Frequent Saudia flyers benefit most from AlFursan co-branded cards, while cashback seekers should consider Riyad Bank or FAB KSA options.
Before applying, establish a banking relationship, ensure your Iqama has sufficient validity, and match your income level to appropriate card tiers. With the right preparation, getting approved for a credit card in Saudi Arabia is straightforward for most working expatriates.
Important Note: Credit card terms, fees, and promotions change frequently. Always verify current information directly with the bank before applying. Visit the bank's official website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date details.