The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) and Ant International have signed an agreement to enable Alipay+ payments at merchants across Saudi Arabia by 2026.
Announced at Money20/20 Middle East in Riyadh, the deal will connect Alipay+ with mada, Saudi Arabia’s national payment system. Once launched, international visitors will be able to use wallets linked to Alipay+ at participating stores.
According to the announcement, the agreement supports SAMA’s efforts to expand digital payments and reduce reliance on cash. It also forms part of the Financial Sector Development Program under Saudi Vision 2030.
SAMA said it works with payment providers to approve digital payment solutions that meet international standards and address the needs of the Saudi market. The central bank added that the partnership will strengthen the Kingdom’s position in fintech and digital payments.
Source: Fintech News UAE
