The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has launched Google Pay through the national payment system, mada, as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s digital payments infrastructure and reduce reliance on cash.
Google Pay in Saudi Arabia
The announcement was made during the Money20/20 Middle East Conference and Exhibition at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center in Malham.
The service allows users to add and manage mada cards and digital credit cards through Google Wallet, supporting SAMA’s strategy to expand fintech adoption, enhance financial inclusion, and modernize payment systems across the Kingdom.
The launch forms part of broader initiatives aimed at streamlining digital payments, meeting evolving market needs, and reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional fintech hub, in line with the Financial Sector Development Program under Vision 2030.
Google Pay is currently available to customers of Al Rajhi Bank and Riyad Bank, with additional banks set to join gradually. The service is expected to be rolled out to all users in Saudi Arabia in the coming weeks.
SAMA and Google signed an agreement in January to introduce Google Pay in the Kingdom through the mada network during the course of the year.
Middle East expansion
Google Pay expanded its footprint in the region earlier this year with launches in Lebanon and Oman, enabling payments via Android smartphones and Wear OS devices. The service is integrated with Google Wallet, allowing users to securely store and use their debit and credit cards.
Big number
Electronic payments in Saudi Arabia rose from 18% in 2016 to 79% by the end of 2024, according to the country’s finance minister.
