Saudi Arabia — Currency & Money

The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is pegged to the US dollar at about 3.75 to the dollar, a rate stable for decades, so costs are predictable. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, the domestic Mada debit network and contactless payments are ubiquitous, and ATMs are plentiful in cities; carry some cash for small vendors and taxis. A 15% VAT applies to most goods and services. There is no legal alcohol economy. Tipping is modest and is often already added as a service charge.