Best Banks for Expats in Saudi Arabia 2025: How to Open an Account

Can Expats Open a Bank Account in Saudi Arabia?

Yes — any expat with a valid Iqama can open a personal bank account in Saudi Arabia. You do not need to be a Saudi citizen. Most major banks offer full services to expatriates, and many have English-language apps and customer service.

Top Banks for Expats in Saudi Arabia

1. Al Rajhi Bank — Best Overall for Expats

Al Rajhi is the largest Islamic bank in the world and the most popular choice for expats in KSA. It has the widest branch network, excellent ATM coverage, and a strong mobile app available in English and Arabic.

• [OK] No monthly fees on basic accounts
• [OK] English-language app (Al Rajhi Mobile)
• [OK] Largest ATM network in KSA
• [OK] Fast international transfer via ARB Swift
• [!] Can be slow to open for brand-new Iqama holders (30-day rule)

2. Saudi National Bank (SNB) — Best for Premium Services

Formed from the merger of NCB and Samba, SNB is Saudi Arabia's largest bank by assets. It offers premium current accounts, wealth management, and excellent English support.

• [OK] Premium banking options for high-salary earners
• [OK] Al Ahli Mobile app is rated highly
• [OK] Good international transfer rates

3. Riyad Bank — Best for Professionals

Riyad Bank offers a sleek app, good English support, and competitive transfer rates. Popular among white-collar expats and professionals.

4. SABB (Saudi British Bank) — Best for Western Expats

Affiliated with HSBC, SABB is the go-to for British and Western expats, offering familiar banking practices and easy international connections.

• [OK] HSBC international account linking
• [OK] Excellent English customer service
• [OK] Competitive SWIFT transfer options

Documents Required to Open a Bank Account

• [OK] Valid Iqama (most banks require it to be at least 1–3 months old)
• [OK] Original passport
• [OK] Salary certificate or employment letter (some banks)
• [OK] Phone number registered on Absher
• [OK] Initial deposit (varies by bank and account type)

How to Open a Bank Account

1. Visit the nearest branch of your chosen bank with all documents.
2. Request to open a personal current account (حساب جاري).
3. Complete KYC (Know Your Customer) forms — most available in English.
4. Your Absher-linked phone number receives an OTP to verify identity.
5. Account is typically activated same day or within 24 hours.
6. mada debit card is issued (either immediately or mailed within a week).

Digital Banks & Alternatives

Saudi Arabia now has licensed digital banks that are expat-friendly:

• STC Pay — Saudi Telecom's digital wallet, great for day-to-day payments and local transfers. Requires Iqama.
• Urpay — A digital wallet popular for remittances to South and Southeast Asia.
• D360 Bank — Saudi Arabia's first fully digital bank, fully app-based with no branches.

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