Every expat in Saudi Arabia needs a local bank account to receive their salary, pay bills, and transfer money home. This guide walks you through opening an account at Al Rajhi Bank and Saudi National Bank — the two most expat-friendly options — along with a full bank comparison.
Yes. Expatriates with a valid iqama (residence permit) can open a bank account at any Saudi bank. The iqama is the essential document — you generally cannot open an account without one. You also need a Saudi mobile number registered in your name. The process takes 30–60 minutes in-branch and your account is ready to receive your salary immediately. Al Rajhi Bank and Saudi National Bank (SNB) are the most recommended options for expats.
Al Rajhi Bank is the most popular choice for expats in Saudi Arabia. Here is the complete step-by-step process:
Your iqama must be valid and registered in the Absher system. If your iqama is expired or about to expire, renew it before applying.
A Saudi mobile number registered in your name (via Absher) is required. Banks use OTP verification via SMS. If your SIM is registered under your employer's name, visit a telecom store to transfer it to your iqama.
Available on iOS and Android. Some branches can initiate the account opening process digitally. Have your iqama number, mobile number, and passport ready.
Bring your original iqama, original passport, and your registered Saudi mobile number. The branch officer will verify your identity and collect biometric data (fingerprint).
Al Rajhi offers current (cheque) accounts and savings accounts. For most expats, a current account with a Mada debit card is sufficient. Platinum and premium accounts offer higher transfer limits.
Your card is usually issued immediately or by next business day. Activate online and mobile banking using your registered mobile number. Your account is immediately ready to receive salary transfers.
Important: Your mobile SIM must be registered under your iqama number, not your employer's. If your SIM is under your company's name, visit an STC, Mobily, or Zain store with your iqama to transfer ownership before visiting the bank.
Comparing four banks frequently used by expats:
This comparison is editorial and based on branch access, English app availability, expat onboarding, and remittance options as of 31 May 2026. It is not a paid ranking. Confirm current eligibility and fees on each bank's official site or app.
Product structures vary by bank and account type. Ask the bank whether the specific current, savings, finance, or investment product is Sharia-compliant and what fees apply.
مصرف الراجحي
Branch Network
Large branch and ATM network across KSA
Mobile App
English-language mobile app
Expat Friendliness
Very high — large expat customer base, English app and support
Remittance
Al Rajhi Exchange — corridors to South Asia and Southeast Asia
Popular with expats for its wide ATM network and efficient salary processing.
البنك الأهلي السعودي
Branch Network
Large nationwide branch network
Mobile App
English app available
Expat Friendliness
High — strong corporate banking for company employees
Remittance
Supports international and GCC transfers
Good option if your employer banks with SNB. Wide SWIFT network.
بنك HSBC السعودية
Branch Network
Smaller network, mostly major cities
Mobile App
Global HSBC app
Expat Friendliness
Very high — designed for internationally mobile expats
Remittance
Global wire transfers; GBP/USD corridors
Suits expats with existing HSBC relationships abroad. Premium accounts may be available.
بنك الرياض
Branch Network
Wide branch network
Mobile App
Riyad Bank Mobile — English available
Expat Friendliness
Moderate — less commonly used by expats than Al Rajhi/SNB
Remittance
Riyad Bank Exchange available
Solid alternative. Popular with employees of government and semi-government entities.
Bank transfer rates for international remittances vary significantly. Compare bank and exchange-house rates for common remittance corridors such as INR, PKR, BDT, PHP, EGP, NPR, LKR, USD, GBP, and EUR before transferring. Dedicated services like Wise, Western Union, and local exchange houses often offer better rates than banks.
Compare Remittance RatesYes. Expatriates with a valid iqama can open a bank account at any Saudi bank. The iqama is the essential document. You also need a Saudi mobile number registered in your name.
You need your valid iqama, original passport, Saudi mobile number registered to your iqama, and typically an employment letter. Some banks may also ask for your Saudi address.
Al Rajhi Bank is a popular choice for expats due to its large branch and ATM network, English-language app, and efficient salary processing. SNB is a strong alternative, especially for expats working at companies that bank with SNB. HSBC Saudi Arabia suits expats with international banking needs. This is an editorial comparison, not a paid ranking; confirm current eligibility and fees on each bank's official site.
Al Rajhi allows digital account opening for Saudi citizens. Expats typically still need an in-branch visit to complete biometric verification. However, Al Rajhi's digital onboarding continues to improve — check the app or call their helpline for the latest process.
Opening a bank account in Saudi Arabia typically takes 30–60 minutes in-branch. Your debit card is usually issued same-day or within 1–3 business days. Online banking access is activated the same day.