Saudi Arabia’s POS spending remained above $3 billion for the 12th consecutive week, showing strong consumer demand and resilience. Moreover, food and beverages led the spending categories, while digital payments continued to grow across the Kingdom. These trends reflect both rising consumer confidence and the success of Vision 2030 initiatives in advancing a cashless economy.
According to official data, total POS spending reached SR13.10 billion ($3.49 billion), while transactions numbered 231.05 million. Although weekly spending fell 12.3 percent and transactions dropped 4.7 percent, the overall performance highlights ongoing consumer activity. Furthermore, these numbers underscore the impact of Vision 2030 initiatives in transforming the country’s financial sector.
Food and beverages continued to lead spending categories, generating SR1.96 billion, despite a 13.1 percent decline. Restaurants and cafes recorded SR1.57 billion, down 6.1 percent. Gas stations posted SR1.02 billion, reflecting a 5.6 percent drop. Transportation transactions fell 8.1 percent to SR966.76 million.
The education sector experienced the sharpest decline, with POS spending falling 57.6 percent to SR285.12 million. Meanwhile, professional and business services reached SR912.58 million, and apparel, clothing, and accessories totaled SR902.67 million. The healthcare sector dropped 5.8 percent to SR876.34 million.
Geographically, Riyadh dominated POS activity with SR4.65 billion and 75.95 million transactions, though spending decreased 10 percent compared to the previous week. Jeddah recorded SR1.84 billion, down 12.4 percent, while Dammam posted SR663.98 million. Makkah and Madinah reported SR506.11 million and SR496.20 million, respectively. Al-Khobar reached SR376.90 million, Buraidah SR318.46 million, and Abha SR167.80 million.
The data confirms that consumer confidence in Saudi Arabia remains strong despite global economic challenges. Moreover, these trends support the country’s broader economic transformation under the Financial Sector Development Program. By increasing digital transactions, the Kingdom strengthens its cashless economy and promotes convenience for consumers.
Additionally, non-cash retail transactions have expanded significantly, reaching 12.6 billion in 2024 compared to 10.8 billion in 2023. This growth illustrates the rising adoption of electronic payment systems and reinforces Saudi Arabia’s strategy to enhance financial infrastructure and accessibility.
Saudi Arabia’s point-of-sale spending demonstrates resilient consumer habits, widespread use of electronic payments, and strong economic participation. Furthermore, the steady spending across major cities shows the success of digital payment initiatives and reinforces confidence in the Kingdom’s economic transformation.
In summary, Saudi Arabia’s POS spending remains above $3 billion, led by food and beverage demand. Digital payments grow, supporting the country’s economic transformation.
