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.
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.
29/12/2014: 1 US Dollar = 3.891 Israeli Sheqel
The Israeli Sheqel (ILS) reaches a historical low against the US Dollar in the foreign exchange market.
04/05/2008: Introduction of New Banknotes
New Israeli Sheqel (ILS) banknotes with enhanced security features were issued.
20/12/2003: Launch of Riyal Interbank Express (SARIE)
SAMA launched SARIE, a real-time gross settlement system, improving interbank transactions and money transfers.
01/09/1999: Introduction of Sheqel Coins
Israeli Sheqel (ILS) coins were introduced, replacing the agora as the subunit of the currency.
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.
24/02/1985: Hyperinflation Crisis
Israel experiences hyperinflation, leading to the introduction of the new Israeli Sheqel (ILS).
16/03/1960: Introduction of the New Sheqel
The old Israeli pound (ILP) was replaced by the new Israeli Sheqel (ILS) as the official currency.
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.
24/02/1949: Introduction of the Israel Pound
The Israeli pound (ILP) was introduced as legal tender in Israel.
24/09/1948: Israeli Declaration of Independence
The Israeli pound (ILP) was introduced as the official currency of Israel.
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.