Saudi Arabia is shaping a fintech landscape that grows quickly yet still feels coordinated. SAMA Governor Ayman Al Sayari recently outlined how the Kingdom plans to keep that momentum going, and the picture is clear. Policy, infrastructure and regulation are all being tightened in ways that support long term scale.

Fast growth with real depth

The fintech sector has expanded from 82 active firms in 2022 to 281 by August 2025. Investment has passed the equivalent of about 2.4 billion US dollars. These numbers reflect more than enthusiasm. They show that the framework built under Vision 2030 is doing what it was designed to do. Startups can enter the market, test ideas through formal channels and then graduate into fully licensed operations.

Daily behaviour also confirms how far things have moved. In 2024, 79 percent of all retail payments in Saudi Arabia were electronic. Total digital payment volumes rose from 10.8 billion transactions in 2023 to 12.6 billion in 2024. It is rare to see a national shift toward cashless payments happen this quickly and with this level of adoption.

A stronger foundation for digital finance

SAMA is modernising core financial infrastructure so it can handle higher volumes and more complex services. This includes improvements to national payment rails, faster clearing for checks and upgrades that support real time transactions. Licensing processes have become more structured through dedicated digital portals. The goal is to lower friction for new entrants while maintaining strong oversight.

International cooperation is another priority. The Kingdom positions itself as a link between Middle East, Africa and Asia. Regulators are engaging with global peers so that cross border fintech services can scale without adding unnecessary risk. It is a practical approach that blends openness with stability.

Opportunities for fintech founders

Saudi Arabia offers clear strengths. The population is young and comfortable with digital services. The government continues to align national programs with fintech objectives. Infrastructure is improving and the market shows real appetite for new financial products. Startups that understand local expectations and the regulatory landscape stand a better chance of success.

A note on emerging founder talent

The ecosystem is also attracting young entrepreneurs. One example often mentioned in local media is Abdullah Najashi, a healthcare focused fintech founder. His work highlights how fintech in Saudi Arabia is broadening beyond payments and lending. Public information on specific age related records is limited, so the safest statement is that he is part of a younger wave of founders building specialised financial services.

Key takeaways for fintech startups

Here is what matters most for companies considering Saudi Arabia:

• The market is growing quickly and supported by strong policy guidance.
  
  
• Digital payments already dominate, which makes the environment easier for product adoption.
  
  
• Regulatory engagement is structured and transparent, so early conversations help.
  
  
• The country is building a regional role that can open paths into neighbouring markets.
  
  
• Sectors like healthcare and insurance show room for specialised fintech plays.

If you want to explore opportunities or design a focused market entry plan, Your Fintech Story can help you navigate strategy, partnerships and positioning. Reach out.