Saudi Arabia's point-of-sale (POS) transaction value remained above the $3.5 billion mark during the week ending June 6, supported by increased spending in the transport, construction, and education sectors, according to data released by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA).
The report showed that the total transaction value reached SR13.67 billion ($3.64 billion), with the number of transactions recorded at 238.75 million. This sustained volume of POS activity reflects ongoing consumer confidence and the country’s accelerating shift toward digital payments, in line with the objectives of the Vision 2030 reform plan.
Despite this overall strength, the data revealed a 4.3 percent decline in the total transaction value and a 4.9 percent decrease in the number of transactions compared to the previous week.
Sector-specific figures indicated significant variation. Transport sector spending reached SR1.03 billion, marking a 38.8 percent rise from the prior seven days. Healthcare POS transactions increased by 19.5 percent to SR860.37 million. The construction and building materials sector saw the largest gain, with outlays climbing 71.3 percent to SR392.57 million.
Other sectors showed substantial activity as well. Food and beverage transactions totaled SR2.29 billion, while restaurants and cafes accounted for SR1.71 billion. Apparel, clothing, and accessories purchases amounted to SR1.06 billion. Spending at gas stations was recorded at SR980.40 million, and jewelry sales reached SR550.74 million. Education sector transactions surged 800.1 percent week-over-week, totaling SR147.39 million.
Geographically, Riyadh led POS spending with SR4.63 billion, a 4 percent increase from the previous week. Jeddah followed with SR1.85 billion, reflecting a 10.1 percent rise. Other notable centers included Dammam (SR674.29 million), Makkah (SR532.99 million), and Madinah (SR189.85 million). Alkhobar’s POS value was SR385.58 million, while Buraidah and Abha reported SR344.32 million and SR178.67 million, respectively.
The data underscore resilience in consumer behavior amid global economic challenges, offering vital support to Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification efforts under Vision 2030. The sustained level of digital transactions signals growing adoption of electronic payments across various sectors and regions within the Kingdom.
