Al Rajhi Bank
A large Saudi Islamic bank with a widely used mobile app, where residents holding an Iqama can open a current account digitally and get a mada debit card for salary, everyday payments and local transfers.
About Al Rajhi Bank
Al Rajhi Bank is a Saudi bank regulated by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) that operates on Islamic banking principles. In its 2025 results, published in January 2026, it reported total assets of about SAR 1,043 billion and customer deposits of SAR 667 billion. The bank's own guide for new arrivals says it offers digital account opening for Iqama and National ID holders, while people still on a work visa without an Iqama open accounts in a branch. Expat guides describe it as popular with foreign residents for everyday payments and local transfers.
Key Features
- Digital Onboarding: Iqama holders can apply for a current account in the Al Rajhi app instead of visiting a branch.
- Account Types: Current, savings, foreign currency and investment accounts are offered, all Sharia-compliant.
- Mobile and Online Banking: Transfers, bill payments and card management are handled in the app and online banking.
- Branch Option: Newcomers without an Iqama can open an account in a branch with a passport, visa and an employer letter.
How to Get Started
- Make sure you have a valid Iqama, an active Absher account, a registered National Address and a mobile number in your own name.
- Download the Al Rajhi Bank app, choose to open a new account and enter your mobile and Iqama numbers.
- Fill in your personal, employment and income details and confirm your identity through the national login service linked to Absher.
- Wait for activation, then collect or activate your debit card as the app instructs.
Online opening is for Iqama and Saudi ID holders; without an Iqama you need to visit a branch with your passport, visa, a company letter and proof of a temporary address. Collecting the debit card may still require a branch visit. Fees, documents and onboarding steps change from time to time, so check the current terms in the app or with the bank before applying.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Does Al Rajhi Bank work with a foreign bank card in Saudi Arabia? Not reliably — a foreign card may be declined. Check the notice above, or plan to use a local payment method.
Is Al Rajhi Bank available in English? Yes, Al Rajhi Bank has an English-language interface.
Do I need a local phone number to use Al Rajhi Bank? Yes, Al Rajhi Bank requires a local phone number to register.
Do I need local ID or residency for Al Rajhi Bank? Yes, Al Rajhi Bank requires local ID or residency status.