01/01/2021: Launch of a digital currency pilot program
Qatar announced the launch of a pilot program to test the use of a digital currency as part of its efforts to introduce blockchain technology in the financial sector.
20/05/2018: SAMA grants licenses for full-fledged digital banks
SAMA issued licenses to two banks for providing digital banking services, reflecting a shift towards digitalization in the financial sector.
05/06/2017: Qatar diplomatic crisis affects the currency
Following the diplomatic crisis and blockade imposed by neighboring countries, the Qatari rial faced volatility and depreciated against major currencies.
21/12/2016: Saudi Arabia introduces the SAR 200 note
A new 200 riyal banknote was introduced, featuring a portrait of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
27/05/2015: Qatari rial pegged to a basket of currencies
The Qatari rial's peg was diversified to include a basket of currencies, reducing its dependence on the US dollar.
20/12/2003: Launch of Riyal Interbank Express (SARIE)
SAMA launched SARIE, a real-time gross settlement system, improving interbank transactions and money transfers.
08/06/2001: Creation of the Qatar Central Bank
The Qatar Central Bank was established to replace the Qatar Currency Board and assume the responsibility of regulating the Qatari rial.
27/07/1997: Qatar Currency Board established
The Qatar Currency Board was established to regulate the issuance and circulation of the Qatari rial and maintain its stability.
27/05/1997: Introduction of Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency new design series
SAMA introduced a new series of banknotes with enhanced security features to combat counterfeiting.
30/06/1986: Saudi riyal pegged to the US dollar at 3.75 SAR per USD
Saudi Arabia pegged its currency to the USD, ensuring stability and ease of trade with international partners.
27/03/1976: Currency pegged to the US Dollar
The Qatari rial was pegged to the US dollar at a fixed exchange rate of 1 USD = 3.64 QAR to stabilize its value and promote trade.
24/06/1973: Introduction of Qatari Rial
Qatar officially introduced the Qatari rial as its currency, replacing the Gulf rupee at a rate of 1 rial = 1.65 rupees.
01/03/1952: Introduction of Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA)
SAMA was established as the central bank of Saudi Arabia, responsible for issuing and managing the Saudi riyal.
23/09/1932: Establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The Saudi riyal currency was introduced following the unification of the Kingdom under King Abdulaziz Al Saud.