Compare the best savings accounts in Saudi Arabia
Showing 10 of 48 accounts
Saudi National Bank
Saudi National Bank
Saudi National Bank
Saudi National Bank
Meem Digital Banking

Al Rajhi Bank

Bank Albilad
Alinma Bank

Bank Albilad

Saudi Awwal Bank
Showing 1-10 of 48
Everything you need to know about savings accounts and deposits from Saudi banks
A savings account is a bank account designed to grow your money by earning returns on your balance. All Saudi banks offer Sharia-compliant savings accounts, using structures like Mudaraba (profit-sharing) or Wakala (agency-based investing) instead of conventional interest.
All savings accounts are supervised by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), providing deposit protection. Returns vary by account type, balance, and tenure — with options ranging from instant-access accounts to term deposits offering higher returns in exchange for withdrawal restrictions.
Mudaraba accounts are the most common — you receive a share of the bank's profits (typically 50-70%) calculated on the lowest monthly balance. Term deposits offer higher returns in exchange for locking your funds for a set period (1 to 60 months). Goal-based accounts help you save toward specific targets with regular monthly contributions.
Other types include: prize-linked accounts that enter you into draws for large cash prizes, gold accounts for premium customers with higher returns, children's and student accounts with simplified requirements, and Wakala accounts where the bank invests on your behalf at a predetermined return.
Returns are displayed as Annual Equivalent Rate (AER) to enable fair comparison between different accounts. Current rates range from under 1% for instant-access accounts to over 5% for long-term deposits. Generally, the higher your balance or the longer the deposit term, the higher the return.
In Mudaraba accounts, profit is calculated on the lowest balance during the month — so mid-month withdrawals can affect your earnings. Profits are distributed monthly or quarterly depending on the bank. Term deposits distribute profits at maturity or periodically based on contract terms.
Withdrawal flexibility varies by account type. Mudaraba accounts typically allow withdrawal at any time, though it affects monthly profit. Term deposits may impose early withdrawal penalties — ranging from loss of accrued profits to a percentage penalty. Goal-based accounts may require sticking to monthly contributions to access full benefits.
Tip: if you need instant liquidity, choose a Mudaraba or call account. If you're certain you won't need the funds for a set period, a term deposit will give you a higher return. You can also split your savings across different accounts — some in a liquid account and some in a longer-term deposit.
Zakat is obligatory on savings accounts if the balance reaches the Nisab threshold (equivalent to approximately 85 grams of gold) and has been held for one full lunar year (Hawl). The Zakat rate is 2.5% of the balance. Some banks offer automatic Zakat calculation or direct transfer to authorized bodies.
There is no income tax on savings account profits for individuals in Saudi Arabia. All accounts listed on Bankkie are Sharia-compliant and approved by each bank's Sharia supervisory board. The financing structures used (Mudaraba, Wakala, Qard Hasan) are Sharia-approved.
When comparing savings accounts, focus on several factors: the Annual Equivalent Rate (AER) for fair return comparison, minimum balance (some accounts start from SAR 0), withdrawal flexibility, and profit distribution method. Use the "High Yield" filter to view accounts with 4% or higher returns.
For savings beginners, a Mudaraba account with no minimum balance is an excellent starting point. For serious savers with larger amounts, term deposits or gold accounts offer higher returns. If you're looking for an engaging experience, prize-linked accounts combine saving with chances to win large cash prizes. Compare all options on Bankkie to find the account that matches your goals.
Answers to common questions about savings accounts