79% Cashless Milestone Sets the Stage for Saudi Digital Payments & Fintech M&A
Saudi Arabia’s fintech sector has crossed a pivotal threshold: a 79% cashless transaction rate achieved in 2024, surpassing its 2025 target. This milestone signals digital maturity that global investors watch closely. As the Kingdom transitions into a cashless economy, its fintech ecosystem becomes increasingly attractive for cross-border mergers and acquisitions.
$181B Payments Market Sets the Stage for Scalable M&A
With a payments market valued at USD 181.13 billion in 2025 and projected to reach USD 298.26 billion by 2030, Saudi Arabia offers scale that few emerging markets can match. A compound annual growth rate of 10.49% underscores the sector’s velocity. Saudi fintech platforms are expanding across verticals from e-commerce to pilgrim wallets, creating acquisition-ready infrastructure. For global firms seeking regional footholds, this scale is a compelling entry point into Saudi Digital Payments & Fintech M&A.
Google Pay Integration Adds Global Compatibility
Scale alone isn’t enough. Global buyers also look for seamless integration. Saudi’s mada system now works with Google Pay, allowing users to manage both mada and credit cards through Google Wallet. This kind of interoperability shows that Saudi fintechs are designed to work with international platforms. Something acquirers prioritize when planning post-deal operations.
Alipay+ Partnership Opens Doors to Asia
Saudi Arabia is teaming up with Ant International to connect mada with Alipay+ by 2026. This will let Saudi businesses accept payments from Alipay+ users worldwide. It’s a smart move that gives local fintechs access to Asian markets and makes them more valuable to international investors.
Thunes Enables Instant Cross-Border Transfers
Thunes has launched real-time transfers into Saudi Arabia. Money can now be sent instantly to Saudi bank accounts and wallets in SAR. This kind of infrastructure makes it easier for global firms to do business and shows that Saudi fintechs are ready for international growth.
25 Fintechs Licensed Through Regulatory Sandbox
Saudi’s central bank (SAMA) has licensed over 25 fintechs that graduated from its Regulatory Sandbox. This program lets companies test their products under supervision before going live. For investors, it’s a sign of a stable and clear regulatory process—important for reducing risk in M&A.
Vision 2030 Keeps Fintech Growth on Track
Saudi fintech growth is tied to Vision 2030 goals, including reaching 70% non-cash transactions and welcoming 150 million visitors by 2030. With the cashless goal already passed, fintechs are now focusing on inclusion, tourism, and job creation. These priorities make them strong candidates for long-term investment.
Partnerships Signal M&A Readiness
Deals with Google Pay, Alipay+, and Thunes show that Saudi fintechs have the infrastructure, regulation, and user adoption needed for global M&A. For international investors, Saudi Digital Payments & Fintech M&A offers a low-friction, high-growth opportunity. The groundwork is laid, and the next wave of acquisitions is already forming.
Also Read: Saudi Digital Riyal: A Strategic Catalyst for Cross-Border M&A
