USD to SAR Travel Money Compared

Currency Guide for Saudi Arabia (SA)

When planning a one-week mid-range stay in Saudi Arabia, travelers should budget approximately 4,500 to 7,000 SAR (Saudi Riyals) based on typical expenditures. Within a week's timeframe, you can expect to spend around 600 SAR on your daily meals, including a mix of local restaurants and cafes, which cost about 40 SAR for a meal at a local eatery 🍽️. A cup of coffee will set you back approximately 15 SAR ☕, while public transport fares are about 10 SAR for one-way trips. If you're considering a prepaid SIM card for local connectivity, expect to pay around 100 SAR. For accommodation, budget hotels and Airbnb options can vary from 200 to 400 SAR per night, making the total for a week around 1,400 to 2,800 SAR. Overall, Saudi Arabia can be considered an average destination in terms of cost when compared to the United States, where similar expenses might add up to around 1.5 times more. When paired with the UK, Saudi Arabia typically offers slightly cheaper options for travelers.

Living Costs for Expats in Saudi Arabia

For expats settling in Saudi Arabia, monthly living costs are generally around 6,000 to 10,000 SAR, depending on lifestyle choices, housing, and personal needs. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages about 2,500 to 4,000 SAR, while utilities generally cost around 500 SAR. For those used to international banking, it's advisable to utilize local banks for convenience and to take advantage of easier access to cash withdrawal and deposit services. Although credit cards are widely accepted, having some cash on hand is beneficial for small transactions. When it comes to sending and receiving money, services like Wise or OFX often offer better exchange rates and lower fees compared to traditional banks. However, for day-to-day expenses, exchanging money locally typically remains the most straightforward approach, ensuring you have the local currency readily available without incurring additional service charges.