Picture this: It’s 2021, and I’m sitting in my Jeddah apartment, nervously clicking through a crypto exchange for the first time. My heart’s pounding, my palms are sweaty, and I’m wondering, “Is this the future of money-or am I about to lose my savings to the digital abyss?” Fast forward to 2025, and the crypto scene in Saudi Arabia is buzzing like never before. From coffee shops in Riyadh to university campuses in Dammam, everyone seems to be talking about Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and the latest meme coin.
If you’re a beginner in Saudi Arabia, you’re probably excited-but also overwhelmed. Which exchange is safe? Can you buy with Saudi Riyals? What about regulations? I’ve been there, and I know how confusing it can be. That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate, beginner-friendly guide to the best crypto exchanges for Saudi users in 2025.
Ready to start your crypto journey? Let’s dive into the best crypto exchanges in Saudi Arabia one by one.
Why is Crypto Gaining Traction in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is in the midst of a digital revolution, and crypto is riding the wave. Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious plan to diversify the economy and embrace technology, has created fertile ground for innovation-including digital assets like cryptocurrencies. The government’s push for digital transformation is everywhere, from smart city projects to fintech sandboxes.
What’s fueling the crypto surge, though, is the Kingdom’s young, tech-savvy population. Did you know that over 60% of Saudis are under 35? Many of us grew up with smartphones and social media, so it’s no surprise that we’re quick to explore new financial frontiers. According to some estimates, crypto adoption in Saudi Arabia has grown by over 25% in the past year alone number that’s only expected to rise as more people look for alternative investments and ways to access global markets.
Crypto offers exciting benefits: portfolio diversification, easy cross-border payments, and exposure to global innovation. But let’s be real, there are risks. Regulations in Saudi Arabia are still evolving, and not all platforms are created equal. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the landscape and choose your exchange wisely.
Understanding Crypto Exchanges: A Beginner’s Quick Start
Before we jump into the best platforms, let’s clarify what a crypto exchange is. Think of an exchange as a digital marketplace where you can buy, sell, or swap cryptocurrencies like you’d use a currency exchange at the airport, but online and for digital assets.
There are two main types:
- Centralized Exchanges (CEX): These are run by companies, act as intermediaries, and handle your funds for you. They’re beginner-friendly, offer customer support, and usually let you buy crypto with regular money (fiat).
- Decentralized Exchanges (DEX): These run on blockchain tech, connect buyers and sellers directly, and don’t hold your funds. They’re more advanced and less suited for beginners.
In this guide, we’ll focus on centralized exchanges, as they’re the best starting point for most Saudi users.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Exchange in KSA
Not all crypto exchanges are created equal-especially when you’re in Saudi Arabia. Here’s what I learned (sometimes the hard way!) about what matters most:
Regulation and Licensing
- Look for exchanges that are licensed or compliant with local authorities like SAMA (Saudi Central Bank) or the CMA (Capital Market Authority), or at least well-regulated internationally.
- Platforms like Rain and BitOasis operate under regional regulations, while others like Binance and OKX are licensed in major global jurisdictions.
Security
- Always check for two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage (keeping most funds offline), and insurance funds to protect against hacks.
- Exchanges like OKX, Bybit and Binance are known for robust security measures.
Fees
- Trading fees can eat into your profits. Most exchanges use a “maker/taker” fee model-makers add liquidity, takers remove it.
- Watch for deposit and withdrawal fees, especially if you’re using SAR (Saudi Riyal).
Supported Cryptocurrencies
- Beginners often stick to big names like Bitcoin and Ethereum, Solana but a wider selection lets you explore more options as you learn.
Payment Methods
- Can you deposit and withdraw in SAR? Bank transfers, debit/credit cards, and peer-to-peer (P2P) options are all important for local users.
User Interface (UI) & User Experience (UX)
A clean, intuitive interface makes a huge difference when you’re just starting out.
Customer Support
- Responsive, Arabic-language support is a major plus!
Educational Resources
- Some exchanges offer tutorials, webinars, and demo accounts- super helpful for beginners.
Deep Dive: Best Crypto Exchanges In Saudi Arabia in 2025
Let’s break down the top picks, focusing on what matters most for Saudi beginners.
Binance – The Global Giant
Quick Overview & Company History
Founded in 2017, Binance is the world’s largest crypto exchange by trading volume. Headquartered in Dubai and globally recognized, it’s a powerhouse for both beginners and pros.
Regulation and KSA Compliance
- Binance is not directly regulated by Saudi authorities but is licensed in several global jurisdictions. It’s accessible in KSA, but users should stay updated on any regulatory changes.
Standout Features & USPs
- Massive selection of coins (over 1200).
- Advanced trading tools, staking, and savings products.
- Binance Earn, Launchpad, and NFT marketplace.
- Extensive educational resources.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
- All major coins: BTC, ETH, BNB, XRP, ADA, and hundreds more.
Trading Fees
- Standard 0.1% for both makers and takers, with discounts for using BNB (Binance’s native token).
Deposit & Withdrawal Methods and Fees for KSA Users
- SAR Deposit Methods: P2P trading is the primary method for SAR and Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Global users can use bank transfers and cards for other currencies.
- SAR Withdrawal Methods: P2P and crypto withdrawals.
Fees:
- P2P trades may have small spreads; crypto withdrawals depend on the coin and network fees.
Security Measures
- 2FA, cold storage, SAFU insurance fund.
- Huge coin selection.
- Low fees.
- Advanced features for when you’re ready.
- No direct SAR support; P2P required.
- Complex interface can be overwhelming at first.
Beginner-Friendliness Score: 3.5/5
Rain – Best for SAR Support and Regulation
Quick Overview & Company History
Launched in 2017, Rain is based in Bahrain and fully licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain. It’s designed for Gulf users and offers full Arabic support.
Regulation and KSA Compliance
- It is licensed and regulated in Bahrain, and it is widely used by Saudis for its local compliance and SAR support.
Standout Features & USPs
- Direct SAR deposits and withdrawals.
- Arabic and English support.
- Simple, clean interface.
- Rain Pro, OTC Desk
- Portfolio Tools
Supported Cryptocurrencies
200+ major coins: BTC, ETH, LTC, USDT, and more.
Trading Fees
- 0% crypto trading fees (as of 2025); withdrawal fees vary by asset (network fees).
Deposit & Withdrawal Methods and Fees for KSA Users
- SAR Deposit Methods: Bank Transfers, Fawri, Fawri+, Cards
- SAR Withdrawal Methods: Bank transfer.
Fees:
- Free SAR deposits; withdrawal fees depend on the asset.
Security Measures
- Bank-grade security, cold storage, and regular audits.
- Easiest SAR on/off ramp.
- Fully regulated regionally.
- Great for beginners.
- Limited coin selection.
- Fewer advanced features.
Beginner-Friendliness Score: 4/5
BitOasis – Best for Arabic Language Support
Quick Overview & Company History
Founded in 2015, BitOasis is based in Dubai and focuses on the Middle East. It’s one of the region’s oldest crypto exchanges.
Regulation and KSA Compliance
- Licensed by Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Not directly regulated by KSA, but widely used by Saudi residents.
Standout Features & USPs
- Full Arabic interface.
- Tailored for Gulf users.
- BitOasis Lite for beginners, Pro for advanced traders.
- Supported Cryptocurrencies
- 79+ coins, including all major assets.
Trading Fees
- Lite: 0% trading fees.
- Pro: 0.055%–0.18% depending on volume.
Deposit & Withdrawal Methods and Fees for KSA Users
- SAR Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit card.
- SAR Withdrawal Methods: Bank transfer.
Fees:
- Free bank transfers; card deposits ~3.99%; withdrawal fees flat per asset.
Security Measures
- Cold storage, multi-factor authentication.
- Arabic support.
- Beginner-friendly Lite mode.
- Regional focus.
- Fewer coins than Rain, Binance, Bybit, and OKX.
- Card deposit fees.
Beginner-Friendliness Score: 3.9/5
OKX – Best for Advanced Features
Quick Overview & Company History
Founded in 2017, OKX is a major global exchange with a strong reputation for security and advanced trading tools.
Regulation and KSA Compliance
- Licensed in the EU and other jurisdictions. Not directly regulated by KSA, but accessible to Saudi users.
Standout Features & USPs
- 1000+ coins.
- Advanced trading: futures, options, staking, and DeFi.
- NFT marketplace.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
- 0.08% maker, 0.1% taker; discounts for OKB token holders.
Deposit & Withdrawal Methods and Fees for KSA Users
- SAR Deposit Methods: Crypto deposits; fiat via third-party providers (fees vary).
SAR Withdrawal Methods: Crypto withdrawals.
Fees:
- Crypto deposits are free; withdrawal fees depend on the asset.
Security Measures
- 2FA, cold storage, insurance.
- Huge coin selection.
- Advanced features for when you level up.
- No direct SAR currency support, but expected soon.
- Can be complex for first-timers.
Beginner-Friendliness Score: 4.2/5
Bybit – Best for Derivatives and Islamic Accounts
Quick Overview & Company History
Founded in 2018, Bybit is a fast-growing exchange known for derivatives and high-leverage trading.
Regulation and KSA Compliance
- It is not directly regulated in KSA but offers an Islamic account for Shariah-compliant trading. (Holds a VARA license in Dubai and is available in Saudi Arabia.)
Standout Features & USPs
- Up to 100x leverage (for advanced users).
- Islamic Account option.
- 1300+ coins and tokens.
- TradeGPT
- Copy Trading
Supported Cryptocurrencies
- All major coins, plus many altcoins.
Trading Fees
- Spot: 0.1% maker/taker; discounts for high volume.
Deposit & Withdrawal Methods and Fees for KSA Users
- SAR Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay, P2P, and fiat via third-party partners.
- SAR Withdrawal Methods: Crypto withdrawals, P2P
Fees:
- Crypto deposits are free; withdrawal fees vary per asset.
Security Measures
- Multi-signature wallets, cold storage, and insurance.
- Islamic Account option.
- Great for learning about derivatives.
- High Trade Volume
- No direct SAR support (expected to be added in Q2 2025)
Beginner-Friendliness Score: 4.9/5
Comparison Table
Exchange | Year Founded | Primary Regulator(s) / KSA Status | Trading Fee Range | Common SAR Deposit Methods | SAR Deposit Fees | Common SAR Withdrawal Methods | SAR Withdrawal Fees | Supported Cryptos (approx.) | Key Security Features |
Binance | 2017 | Global (EU, Dubai, etc.) | 0.1% | P2P, Card | Varies | P2P, Crypto, Card | Varies | 1200+ | 2FA, cold storage, SAFU fund |
Rain | 2017 | CBB (Bahrain, regional) | 0% | Bank transfer, card | Free (bank) | Bank transfer | Varies (asset) | 200+ | Cold storage, audits |
BitOasis | 2015 | VARA (Dubai, regional) | 0–0.18% | Bank transfer, card | Free/card 3.99% | Bank transfer | Flat per asset | 79+ | Cold storage, MFA |
OKX | 2017 | EU, global | 0.08–0.1% | Crypto, 3rd-party fiat | Varies | Crypto and OKX Card, P2P | Varies | 1000+ | 2FA, cold storage, insurance |
Bybit | 2018 | Global, Islamic Account | 0.1% | Crypto, 3rd-party fiat | Varies | Crypto and Bybit Card, P2P | Varies | 1300+ | Multi-sig, cold storage |
Navigating the Regulatory Landscape in Saudi Arabia
Crypto regulation in Saudi Arabia is a moving target. The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) and the Capital Market Authority (CMA) have issued warnings about the risks of crypto trading but haven’t banned it outright. Instead, they’re monitoring the space and working on frameworks to protect consumers and prevent money laundering.
For now, crypto isn’t considered legal tender, but it’s legal to trade on licensed international exchanges. Always check the latest guidance, as regulations could change quickly. And remember: This article isn’t financial or legal advice. Always do your own research (DYOR) and consult with professionals if you’re unsure.
Step-by-Step: Getting Started on an Exchange
Ready to take the plunge? Here’s a general roadmap for getting started:
Sign Up & KYC
- Register with your email or phone.
- Complete KYC (Know Your Customer) verification- upload your ID, proof of address, and sometimes a selfie.
Fund Your Account
- For SAR, use a bank transfer or card if supported (e.g., Rain, BitOasis).
- For others, deposit crypto from another wallet.
Place Your First Trade
- Choose a simple market order: enter the amount, click “Buy,” and you’re done!
Secure Your Account
- Enable 2FA (Google Authenticator or SMS).
- Consider moving large amounts to a personal wallet for extra security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for KSA Crypto Beginners
Is crypto trading legal in Saudi Arabia?
Can I buy Bitcoin with Saudi Riyal (SAR)?
Which exchange has the lowest fees in KSA?
Are my crypto earnings taxed in Saudi Arabia?
How do I keep my crypto safe?
Conclusion and My Final Thoughts
Choosing the right crypto exchange in Saudi Arabia can make or break your trading journey. Whether you prioritize low fees, Arabic support, or advanced features, there’s a platform for everyone. My advice? If you’re planning on trading, start with a platform with high trading volume, such as Bybit, Binance, OKX., and if your goal is to invest for the long term, then you should consider a MENA or regulated exchange, such as Rain or BitOasis.
Which exchange are you leaning towards? Let me know in the comments below-and happy trading, fellow crypto explorer!
If you have any more questions or want to dive deeper into a specific exchange, just ask!
