Saudi Central Bank approves use of visitor ID to open bank accounts

The policy shift is part of a broader financial inclusion and digital transformation push

Last updated: September 28, 2025 | 20:34

Khitam Al Amir

1 MIN READ

The update comes as part of the central bank’s ongoing review of account regulations.

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Dubai: Visitors to Saudi Arabia can now open bank accounts using a “Visitor ID,” the Saudi Central Bank (Sama) announced on Sunday, marking a notable shift in access to financial services across the Kingdom.

The “Visitor ID,” issued by the Ministry of Interior, is recognised as an official identification document and can be verified through authorised digital platforms, according to the central bank.

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SAMA said the change would enable banks to serve new consumer groups and improve the overall visitor experience, while also aligning account opening procedures with international standards.

The update comes as part of the central bank’s ongoing review of account regulations, designed to keep pace with regulatory developments, streamline banking processes, and advance the Kingdom’s financial inclusion and digital transformation agenda.

Khitam Al Amir

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

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