Saudi Arabia — Shopping
Shopping
Souks (markets) sell incense and holders, jewelry, bronze and brassware, richly decorated daggers and swords, and in the Eastern Province, huge brass-bonded chests. Bargaining is often expected, even for modern goods such as cameras and electrical equipment (which can be very good value).
Shopping hours: Sat-Thurs 0900-1300 and 1630-2000 (Ramadan 2000-0100). These hours differ in various parts of the country.
Currency
Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR) = 100 halala; 5 halala = 20 qurush. Notes are in denominations of SAR500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of 50, 25, 10, and 5 halala.
Currency Exchange
Most foreign currencies can be exchanged at commercial banks and money-changers, which stay open longer.
Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are all widely accepted. Some ATMs are available.
Travelers Checks
Widely accepted although they can be hard to change. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler's checks in Saudi Riyal, Euros, US Dollars or Pounds Sterling and to carry the purchase receipt.
Currency Restrictions
There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency, but amounts exceeding SAR60,000 must be declared.
Banking Hours
Sat-Wed 0800-1200 and 1700-2000; Thurs 0800-1200. Money-changers stay open longer.
Exchange Rate
| 1.00 GBP = 6.02 SAR |
| 1.00 USD = 3.75 SAR |
| 1.00 EUR = 5.29 SAR |
| Currency conversion rates as of 19 July 2011 |
