Saudi Arabia Rolls Out Google Pay, Sets Up Alipay+ for 2026
Saudi Arabia’s central bank (SAMA) has taken a major step in its digital payment revolution. In mid-September 2025, during the Money20/20 Middle East conference in Riyadh, SAMA announced the launch of Google Pay in the Kingdom. At the same event, the bank revealed an agreement with Ant International that will allow Alipay+ to be accepted across Saudi Arabia by 2026.
These developments are part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to transform the economy through digital innovation, increase financial inclusion, and reduce the dependence on cash. They also align with the Financial Sector Development Program, a core pillar of Vision 2030.
What’s New
Google Pay through mada: Saudi users can now add and manage their mada debit cards and digital credit cards in Google Wallet. All transactions will be processed through the country’s national payment system, known as mada.
Alipay+ coming in 2026: With the agreement between SAMA and Ant International, cross-border QR code payments via Alipay+ will be enabled. This will allow international travelers who use digital wallets linked to Alipay+ to make payments at Saudi merchants that support mada starting in 2026.
Why It Matters
Cashless economy boost: By 2024, almost 80 percent of all retail payments in Saudi Arabia were already electronic. The introduction of Google Pay and Alipay+ strengthens the move toward a more cashless society.
Greater financial inclusion: The expansion of digital payment options means more people, including those with limited access to traditional banking, can take part in the financial system. This is expected to help small businesses in particular.
Tourism and global trade: Alipay+ is widely used by travelers from Asia and other parts of the world. Allowing it in Saudi Arabia will make it easier for visitors to pay using wallets they already trust, improving the travel and shopping experience.
Fintech growth: SAMA Governor Ayman Al-Sayari highlighted that the number of fintech companies in the Kingdom has grown from around 80 in late 2022 to nearly 280 by mid-2025. Investments in this sector have also reached close to 9 billion Saudi riyals, showing strong momentum in the industry.
Challenges and Considerations
Merchant readiness: Not all merchants in Saudi Arabia are yet equipped to accept Google Pay or QR code payments. Investment in payment hardware, training, and awareness campaigns will be needed.
User adoption: While many consumers already use cards or cash, convincing them to fully embrace mobile wallets will require strong trust in security, ease of use, and reliability.
Security and privacy: Protecting user data and ensuring smooth and secure transactions across platforms will remain a top priority for regulators and service providers.
What’s Next
The rollout of Alipay+ is expected to be gradual, starting in 2026 with more merchants being added step by step. The Kingdom will likely see continued growth in fintech start-ups, further investments in payment infrastructure, and the possible arrival of other international digital wallet services.
Saudi Arabia’s launch of Google Pay and its upcoming adoption of Alipay+ are more than just new ways to pay. They represent a larger strategy to modernize financial services, welcome global commerce, and support a thriving digital economy. These moves are key milestones on the country’s journey toward achieving Vision 2030.
