Overview of the Saudi Arabian Riyal:
Saudi Arabia is considered as one of the most powerful Muslim country in the Middle–East. Mecca, a city of Saudi Arabia considered as the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad who is the prophet of Islamic religion. For all the Muslim in this world Mecca is considered sacred and important part of their lives. While visiting this beautiful country we should know about the currency which people are using daily for their transaction. The Riyal is not only a currency but the very identity of currency is shaped by it thus playing a very crucial role in the economy and growth of Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Riyal not only plays an essential medium role in the daily transaction but also shows the country’s development in financially and globally.
History of the Saudi Arabian Riyal:
To understand the currency better first we need to understand the creation of the currency. The first Saudi coins were introduced in 1935.
Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA) was created in 1952 and in following year 1953 it printed the very first currency of country. Bills printed were in denominations of riyal and it has image of king on one side while the other side of note has coat of arms. Currency printed in 1953 was introduced had similarities to that of Haj Pilgrim Receipts issued to people to use in pilgrim foreign exchange transactions.
Riyal is issued by the Central Bank and circulation in country controlled by it. Riyal as currency is divided into 100 halalas. Anyone travelling to Saudi Arabia needs to have riyal which is minted in denominations of 1 riyal, 5 riyal or 20 riyal, 10riyal,100 riyal,50riyal ,200 riyal and 500 riyal while coins mintedss in denominations of 1 riyal or 2 riyal, 5 halalas and 25, 10 ,50 halalas. In September 2020, Central Bank of Saudi Arabia introduced polymer made currency of 5 riyal having same design as that of currency in circulation.
Right from the hajj pilgrim notes until today currency has gone through several changes which celebrates the images of leaders of Saudi Arabia. King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud who authorized the Saudi riyal symbol has led to Saudi Arbian identity being recognised widely throughout the world.
Evaluation of Riyal:
Oil prices: As Saudi Arabia is the largest exporter of oil any fluctuations in global oil prices results in affecting riyal as a currency.
Economic factors: Controlled inflation, regulated interest rates based on monetary policies taken and growth in GDP would bring positive impact onto a currency. If we look at current data with GDP growth of nearly 3.9% for second quarter of 2025 while inflation in first quarter of 2025 remained at 2.3% which is moderate among the other countries contributes positively in providing stability and strengthening the position of riyal as a global currency.
Government policies and monetary policies: Policies and initiatives taken by government often influence investors’ confidence in the economy and bring in foreign investments into country thus positively influencing riyal. Policies like Vision 2030 an attempt to diversify countries economy and decisions taken like investment laws where equal treatment is guaranteed to both Saudi and non-Saudi investors not only brings confidence in investors but also builds trust thus bolstering riyal.
Exchange Rate: Initially the Saudi riyal’s value had been allowed to be flexible by varying it by plus or minus 7.5% of Riyal. Ever since the year 1986, US dollar is considered as a standard and is Riyals exchange value is fixed against it with 1$ equal to 3.75 Riyal. Fluctuations in the US dollar affect the value of the riyal as a currency however it helps in stabilizing the currency and to have predictability of the currency for Saudi Arabia.
Looking to Buy/Sell Saudi Riyal for Best Exchange Rate in India?
Looking to sell or buy Saudi Riyal (SAR) in India at the best exchange rate? Your search stops right here! Orient Exchange offers competitive rates, zero hidden charges, and a smooth currency exchange process. Experience quick, secure, and reliable forex services for travel, Hajj, Umrah, or business needs.
Your next thought would be why opt for orient exchange? Well Orient exchange is RBI authorised money changer which not only offers best exchange rate for Saudi Riyal in India but also provides best customer service experience making your business with us effortless and worthwhile.
Not keen on getting your currency exchange done online? Well Orient exchange has nearly 26 branches all over India you can visit your nearest branch and get best exchange rate for Saudi Riyal in India you can ask for. Want to get your currency exchange done at comfort of your home? Well Orient exchange has it covered you can place order and relax with features such as live order tracking simply login and track your order with ease.
Your next thought might be why is orient exchange an excellent choice for you to get your currency exchange for Saudi Riyal in India? Let’s us consider an example for exchange rate for Saudi Riyal on 09/10/2025
| Orient Exchange | Others | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Saudi Riyal | 24.07Rs. | Anywhere between 24.8 to 25Rs. |
Not only do other players in market have higher exchange rate but also has include mark-up fees and some even charge service charges for processing the currency exchange. Opt wisely Opt for Orient exchange.
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