2026-02-04
The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) issued this circular to mandate that money changers operating in Makkah, Madinah, and other Holy City areas maintain full operational readiness and high service standards throughout Ramadan and Hajj 1447H. The directive requires strict compliance with sixteen operational guidelines, including adequate foreign currency and cash reserves, integrated digital systems, enhanced security infrastructure, and sufficient qualified staff. These measures aim to align money changer services with Vision 2030 objectives and ensure optimal support for Hajj and Umrah guests.
Respected Sirs,
Peace, mercy and blessings of God be upon you,
Regarding the emphasis on the readiness of premises and full operational capacity of money changers for the seasons of Ramadan and Hajj for the year 1447H.
Based on paragraph (b) of the General Conditions for the Organization and Operation of Money Changers, SAMA has issued various circulars or guidelines regarding the operational capacity of money changers. This emphasis is one of the main objectives to achieve Vision 2030, which aims to enhance the quality of services provided by money changers and ensure that money changers are among the key services provided to guests of Hajj and Umrah.
Therefore, the Governor of SAMA has emphasized that money changers operating in Makkah Al-Mukarramah, Madinah Al-Munawwarah, and other cities within the boundaries of the Holy Cities should maintain a high level of readiness and provide early services to enhance the quality of services provided by money changers and ensure they meet the highest standards during the seasons of Ramadan and Hajj, with the implementation of all systems and guidelines as specified in Table 1 below.
For your information and action, Yours faithfully, Yazeed bin Ahmed Al-Sheikh Deputy Governor for Supervision Saudi Central Bank (SAMA)
Money Changers operating in Makkah Al-Mukarramah, Madinah Al-Munawwarah and other cities within the boundaries of the Holy Cities.