ATM use Saudi/ JED

[simongr]

Hi all

Another Saudi question or two - is it relatively simple to get cash out of an ATM in Saudi from an Oz bank account? I never have any trouble pretty much anywhere getting cash but have never been to Saudi.

Also is it a very cash based or card based society - obviously the more card based the better.

Cheers

S

 

[thewinchester]

An interesting question - and went hunting for the answer myself.

Online consensus is that Saudia Arabia is still a primarily cash economy.

ATMs are ubiquitous throughout Saudi Arabia, but acceptance of credit cards outside of hotels and luxury malls/similar establishments is rare.

ATM networks will often have available either Cirrus/Maestro or Plus networks (sometimes both) for accessing money from your debit account, which should cover pretty much all your Australian major banks.

If you are stuck looking for an ATM, hit up the global locators from Visa and Mastercard. You can also download their respective applications for your smartphone or use their mobile sites to find an ATM when out and about.

 

[browski]

You will not have any problems. Saudi scores a F on alcohol, but an A on finance.
If you are flying in from DXB/SIN, you might find it prudent to pick up some cash there as well.

 

[simongr]

I am going in June and a colleague is going tomorrow - both flying via HKG on CX. I will advise him to get cash at the airport - I expect though that he and I wont leave the offices/hotel much on our respective trips.

 

[pblackm]

You will not have any problems. Saudi scores a F on alcohol, but an A on finance.
If you are flying in from DXB/SIN, you might find it prudent to pick up some cash there as well.

I agree, having been there a few times. I used Amex and Visa/Mastercard, got money out of ATMs etc. Generally do not use/need much cash.