15/09/2021: Digitization of the Moroccan dirham
Morocco announced plans to digitize the dirham, introducing a central bank digital currency (CBDC) for financial transactions in the country.
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.
02/06/2014: Introduction of the fourth dirham
Another series of Moroccan dirham banknotes was issued, featuring new designs and enhanced security features.
02/07/2005: Dirham's exchange rate floatation
Morocco moved to a floating exchange rate regime, allowing the dirham to fluctuate based on market forces.
20/12/2003: Launch of Riyal Interbank Express (SARIE)
SAMA launched SARIE, a real-time gross settlement system, improving interbank transactions and money transfers.
01/05/1999: Introduction of the third dirham
A new series of Moroccan dirham banknotes was introduced with enhanced security features.
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.
12/12/1980: Introduction of the second dirham
A new series of Moroccan dirham banknotes was issued to replace the first series.
17/10/1974: Adoption of the dirham as the currency
The Moroccan franc was replaced by the Moroccan dirham (MAD) as the official currency.
26/11/1960: Introduction of the Moroccan franc (FRF)
The Moroccan franc was introduced as the official currency of Morocco.
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.