finpeel Answers · KSA · updated 2026-08-14

Do I need a licence for merchant acquiring in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, if your company itself provides the regulated acquiring/payment service. SAMA’s payment-services framework governs payment service providers and requires the relevant authorisation for the services performed.

A merchant-facing software platform can be different from the regulated acquirer if a licensed PSP holds the acquiring relationship and settlement responsibility.

Map merchant contracts, transaction acceptance, settlement and chargeback responsibility before classifying the model.

Regulator: Saudi Central Bank (SAMA)

Primary sources: SAMA — Law of Payments and Payment Services · SAMA — Implementing Regulations of the Law of Payments and Payment Services

Directional — not legal advice. Verify with the regulator before committing.

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