A budget
Recalculate*Rates are subject to change throughout the day. In-store rates vary compared to online.
**The figures provided are indicative only and are there to provide an idea of the amount of travel money you may need during your trip.
Need Saudi Arabia Currency?
Get our best rates when you buy SAR online.
Today's SAR Online Exchange Rate*:
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- SAR = $1
- °F
The Low Down on Saudi Arabia Currency
| Currency: | Riyal |
| Currency code: | SAR |
| Central Bank: | Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority |
| Currency symbol: | SR or ر.س |
| Bank notes: | 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 riyals |
| Coins: | 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 halalas, 1 riyal, 2 riyals |
The official currency in Saudi Arabia is the riyal which is abbreviated to SAR. 1 Riyal is divided into 100 halalas.
The riyal has been the currency in Saudi Arabia since it came into being in 1902 and was the currency of Hejaz before Saudi Arabia was formed.
Originally a coin-based currency, the Saudi Arabian monetary agency began issuing banknotes in 1961 for denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50 and 100 riyals.
In 1983 the 500 riyal banknote was introduced, and in 2000 banknotes were issued as a celebration of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s centenary.
What to spend your Saudi Arabia riyals on:
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Cappuccino
10.5 SAR
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1 km taxi ride
5 SAR
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Movie ticket
65 SAR
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One-way Taif cable car trip
30 SAR
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Loaf of bread
2.3 SAR
Must-sees in Saudi Arabia
- Najran
- Situated on the Yemeni border, the city of Najran is a colourful smorgasbord of architecture, history and culture. Offering unforgettable sites and experiences, this is a top tourist spot for even the most experienced traveller.
- Farasan Islands
- A favourite diving destination; the Farasan Islands are a tranquil paradise of private beaches and turquoise waters. In addition to numerous historical sites, the Farasan islands are home to various species of birds, mangroves and a special species of gazelle that is only found here.
- Taif
- The mountain city of Taif is accessible by a scenic cable car and is famous for its roses and rosewater. Taif is an excellent area for trekking and mountain climbing among its blooming spring scenery and majestic peaks.
Buying Saudi Arabia Riyal Online is Easy
Simply order your Saudi Arabia riyal online to lock in the rate, then choose to collect at your local store or at the airport before you fly.
Travelling to Saudi Arabia in the Future?
Track Rates and get notified when the SAR matches your ideal rate so you can decide if it’s a good time to buy!
Track RatesPrefer to Buy in Store?
If buying online is not your thing, visit your nearest Travelex store around and one of our friendly sales consultants will help you organise your real for your trip to Saudi Arabia.
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