If you’ve ever been hit with unexpected credit card fees in Saudi Arabia, you’re not alone and not anymore.
The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has officially rolled out updated credit card rules in Saudi Arabia aimed at lowering costs and boosting transparency for cardholders.
These new regulations will take effect within the next 30 to 90 days, and they bring major changes that will impact everyone from students to business travelers and digital nomads.
Let’s break down what the new credit card rules in Saudi Arabia mean for your day-to-day life, and how you can take advantage of them starting in 2025.
Why Did SAMA Update Credit Card Rules in Saudi Arabia?
SAMA’s latest overhaul of the credit card rules in Saudi Arabia is part of its wider push to create a more transparent, digital, and consumer-first financial environment.
After working closely with global payment companies, SAMA identified areas where hidden costs and unclear terms were hurting consumer trust.
The result?
A more regulated and customer-friendly credit card ecosystem that protects your wallet, especially when you’re using cards for cash withdrawals, international purchases, and e-wallet top-ups.
Also Read: The Best Safety Apps in Dubai You Need to Download Now
What’s New in the 2025 Credit Card Rules in Saudi Arabia?
Here’s a breakdown of the most important changes in the credit card rules in Saudi Arabia:
1. Real-Time Transaction Notifications via SMS
Banks and credit card issuers must now send immediate SMS alerts for every transaction made on your card, whether it’s in-store, online, or an automatic payment.
You’ll also receive account statements via SMS, increasing visibility into your spending.
Why it matters:
You’ll always know when your card is used, which means better fraud protection and financial awareness.
2. Lower Fees on Cash Withdrawals
Under the new Credit Card Rules in Saudi Arabia, SAMA has capped withdrawal fees to reduce financial burden:
- Withdrawals below SAR 2,500: Fee capped at 3%
- Withdrawals above SAR 2,500: Flat fee of SAR 75
Previously, cash withdrawals could cost up to SAR 300. This is a significant reduction.
Why it matters:
You can access emergency cash without worrying about high penalties.
3. Flat 2% Fee on International Transactions
Traveling or shopping abroad? International transactions now carry a flat 2% fee of the transaction amount, no more guessing or hidden foreign exchange fees.
Why it matters:
This makes budgeting for international expenses much more predictable and fairer.
4. Free E-Wallet Top-Ups with Credit Cards
Top up your e-wallets like STC Pay or Apple Pay using your credit card? Great news: there are no extra charges anymore.
Why it matters:
More flexibility in how you use your credit card, especially for cashless daily payments.
5. Add Funds Above Your Credit Limit And Withdraw Anytime
SAMA now allows customers to deposit extra amounts above their credit limit and withdraw that money whenever needed without fees.
Why it matters:
This gives you more flexibility to manage expenses, especially during travel or emergencies.
6. 25-Day Grace Period on Repayments
Credit card issuers must now offer a mandatory grace period of at least 25 days to repay the full amount without incurring late fees.
Why it matters:
You get more breathing room to settle your payments interest-free.
7. Full Fee Disclosure & Templates
The updated Credit Card Rules in Saudi Arabia require banks to use standardized templates to list out all fees, benefits, and terms in both Arabic and English.
Why it matters:
No more fine print surprises. Everything must be easy to compare and understand.
8. SMS Notice for Any Fee Changes + 14-Day Exit Option
If your credit card provider wants to change any fees, they’re now required to notify you via SMS and you’ll get 14 days to cancel your contract if you don’t agree.
Why it matters:
You’re no longer locked into unfair terms.
9. Tools to Estimate Rewards and Charges
Banks must now provide digital tools that help you estimate how much you’ll earn in rewards or pay in international fees before you swipe.
Why it matters:
You can make smarter, more informed decisions about how you spend.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Before vs After
| Feature | Before | 2025 Rules |
| Cash Withdrawal Fees | Up to SAR 300 | Capped at SAR 75 |
| International Purchase Fee | Variable, not always disclosed | Fixed at 2% of transaction |
| E-Wallet Top-Up | Often came with charges | Now completely free |
| Grace Period | Dependent on issuer | Mandatory 25-day minimum |
| Extra Deposits Above Limit | Often penalized | Now allowed and free to withdraw |
| Fee Disclosure | Inconsistent formats | Standardized, mandatory templates |
| Transaction Notifications | Often email only | Real-time SMS required |
| Change in Fees | Often unclear | Mandatory SMS + 14-day cancellation |
Also Read: Best Digital Wallets & Payment Apps in the Gulf
Who Benefits from the New Credit Card Rules in Saudi Arabia?
- Expats managing salaries and remittances
- Frequent travelers booking flights or shopping online
- Students who rely on cards for daily expenses
- Digital wallet users topping up regularly
- Anyone trying to avoid surprise fees or long statements
In short, the new Credit Card Rules in Saudi Arabia make managing your money simpler, safer, and more transparent.
Final Thoughts
SAMA’s decision to revamp the credit card rules in Saudi Arabia signals a clear shift toward user-first banking in the Kingdom.
By capping fees, boosting transparency, and giving customers real tools to make smarter choices, these changes mark a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s digital finance evolution.
Whether you’re swiping at a café in Riyadh, booking a ticket in Jeddah, or shopping online from Dammam, the new credit card rules in Saudi Arabia are designed to put you in control and keep more riyals in your pocket.
