Saudi Riyal to USD exchange rate and influence to international trade

The exchange rate of the Saudi Riyal (SAR) against the United States Dollar (USD) remained stable overall in 2025, rising slightly. The average exchange rate of the Saudi Riyal against the US dollar in 2025 was 1 Saudi Riyal = 0.2665 USD, the highest rate was 1 Saudi Riyal = 0.2667 USD on January 28 and February 5, and the lowest rate was 1 Saudi Riyal = 0.2662 USD on January 1 and January 5. As of February 15, 2025, the exchange rate of the Saudi Riyal against the US dollar was 0.267, little changed from the previous day, with little volatility over the past week. The exchange rate has also fluctuated smoothly over the past year, with the highest exchange rate of 1 Saudi riyal to $0.2667 on May 8, 2024, and the lowest exchange rate of 1 Saudi riyal to $0.2661 on December 11, 2024.

You can search for real time exchange rate through XTransfer exchange rate platform to monitor the latest rate.

Ⅰ The impact of the Saudi Riyal/US Dollar exchange rate on foreign trade

Changes in the Saudi Riyal exchange rate against the U.S. Dollar (USD) have implications for trade and the economy.

Saudi Arabia is the world's leading oil exporter.Thus, the riyal is closely linked to the oil price. When the Saudi riyal depreciates, its oil exports will become more competitive and increase export revenues.

And when the rial rises, oil becomes more expensive, potentially dampening demand. In terms of non-oil products, the depreciation of the Saudi Riyal will help improve the market competitiveness of these products and promote economic diversification; Appreciation, in turn, could weigh on non-oil industries.

For the United States, the depreciation of the Saudi riyal will reduce the cost of imports and reduce inflationary pressure in the United States, but the appreciation of the Saudi riyal will raise the cost of imports, which may affect the energy market and related industries. In addition, exchange rate fluctuations will affect the trade balance and structure of the two countries. If the Saudi riyal depreciates, Saudi exports become more competitive, which could lead to a larger trade surplus, and vice versa, which could exacerbate the U.S. trade deficit. Exchange rate fluctuations may also prompt both sides to restructure their trade, for example by increasing exports or imports of non-oil products.

On the investment side, the depreciation of the Saudi riyal could attract more US companies to invest in Saudi Arabia because of the lower investment costs. Exchange rate stability is crucial for economic cooperation between the two countries, especially in the energy and infrastructure sectors. Changes in the Saudi riyal could also have implications for the international position of the dollar, especially in oil trading, where a rise in the riyal could weaken the dollar's dominance. At the same time, the use of RMB in Saudi Arabia is gradually increasing, and the change of exchange rate may also affect the process of RMB internationalization.

Ⅱ How to exchange Saudi riyals and USD?

The method of exchanging Saudi riyals (SAR) and U.S. dollars (USD) in the United States and Saudi Arabia is basically similar, but the specific circumstances and channels are slightly different. The following are common exchange methods in both places:

1. Exchange in the US

Bank exchange:

Banks in the United States usually offer currency exchange services. You can visit a bank branch and use the counter service to exchange Saudi riyals for US dollars. Different banks may offer different exchange rates and fees, so it is recommended to compare before exchanging. Many banks also offer online currency exchange services. You can complete online and then transfer dollars into your account.

Currency Exchange Service Company:

Some specialized currency exchange companies, such as Western Union, often offer more convenient exchange services and may offer more competitive exchange rates than banks. Still, they usually charge a fee.

Online exchange Platform:

Online currency exchange platforms, such as Wise, XTransfer, etc., are usually able to provide real-time exchange rate inquiry and online transaction services with lower fees than banks, suitable for users who need flexible exchange.

ATM:

Some ATMs in the United States also support foreign currency exchange. But the exchange rate is usually not ideal and there are additional fees, so it is not recommended as a preferred method.

2. Exchange in Saudi Arabia

Bank exchange:

Major Saudi banks also offer currency exchange services, where you can exchange dollars for Saudi riyals at bank branches. Exchange rates and fees may vary depending on the bank, so it is advisable to know in advance.

Currency exchange point:

Shopping malls, airports and tourist areas in Saudi Arabia usually have many currency exchange points that provide convenient exchange services. You should compare exchange rates and fees at different points to reduce unnecessary loss.

Online exchange Platform:

XTransfer is one example of an online platform that allows you to exchange money. You may look up the currency rate online using these tools. Additionally, online platforms make it simple to move money between places.

Note, when exchanging money, especially at a bank, you can usually get better exchange rates and services by choosing trading hours on weekdays.
In general, whether in the United States or Saudi Arabia, the way to exchange Saudi riyals and dollars is flexible, and the specific choice should be based on individual needs, taking into account the exchange rate, fees and convenience factors.