Saudi POS Transactions Rise Sharply as Education Spending Surges After Eid

Point-of-sale transactions in Saudi Arabia recorded a strong weekly increase, rising 13.4 percent to SR14.7 billion ($3.9 billion) in the week ending April 4, driven largely by a sharp jump in education-related spending following the Eid Al-Fitr holidays.

Data released by the Saudi Central Bank showed that the total number of transactions also climbed by 12.1 percent to reach 246.5 million, reflecting a broader uptick in consumer activity across the Kingdom.

The education sector posted the most significant growth, with spending surging 797.5 percent to SR296.5 million. Transaction volumes in the category also rose by 258 percent, as students returned to schools and universities after the holiday break, prompting increased purchases related to academic needs.

Healthcare-related spending also showed notable gains. Expenditure on medical services rose 69.4 percent to SR534.48 million, while spending on spare parts increased by 57.6 percent. Purchases at pharmacies and for medical supplies climbed 13.5 percent to SR247.57 million, indicating sustained demand in essential service sectors.

Consumer staples continued to play a central role in overall spending trends. Outlays on food and beverages rose 13.7 percent to SR2.45 billion, maintaining their position as one of the largest contributors to total transaction volumes. In contrast, spending at restaurants and cafes declined by 8.3 percent to SR1.82 billion, suggesting a shift in consumption patterns following the festive period.

The jewelry sector recorded the steepest drop, with spending falling by 29.6 percent during the week. Analysts say this decline may reflect a post-holiday slowdown after increased purchases during Eid celebrations.

Major cities across the Kingdom mirrored the broader upward trend in spending. Riyadh accounted for the largest share of total POS transactions, with spending rising 19.6 percent to SR4.97 billion. The number of transactions in the capital reached 78 million, marking an 18.1 percent weekly increase.

In Jeddah, transaction values grew 10.2 percent to SR2 billion, while Dammam saw a 27.3 percent rise to SR752.84 million.

Weekly POS data tracked by SAMA provides insight into consumer behaviour and highlights the continued expansion of digital payment systems across the country. The figures also point to the growing reach of electronic payment infrastructure, extending beyond major retail centres into smaller cities and a wider range of service sectors.

The steady increase in digital transactions aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 programme, which aims to reduce reliance on cash and support the development of a modern, technology-driven economy.