Point-of-sale transactions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia recorded approximately 13.7 billion riyals during the week ending May 16 of this year, through 249.8 million sales transactions, according to data from the Saudi Central Bank.

Food and beverages lead the way

The data showed the food and beverage sector topping the spending list with 2.14 billion riyals, followed by restaurants with 1.73 billion riyals, and then clothing and accessories with 1.22 billion riyals.

Transport, fuel, and health sectors

The transport sector recorded spending of 1.04 billion riyals, while spending at fuel stations reached 1.01 billion riyals. Consumers spent 895.6 million riyals on health, and 772.1 million riyals on professional and commercial services.

Construction materials, culture, and entertainment

Spending on construction and building materials amounted to 410.1 million riyals, while culture and entertainment recorded 320.5 million riyals. Riyadh city topped the spending volume with 4.87 billion riyals, followed by Jeddah with 1.87 billion riyals.

Riyadh

Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia, located in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. Historically a small walled town centered around the Masmak Fortress, it was captured by King Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1902, which marked the beginning of the unification of the Kingdom. Today, Riyadh has transformed into a modern metropolis and a major political, financial, and cultural hub, blending its deep heritage with rapid contemporary development.

Jeddah

Jeddah is a major port city on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, historically serving as a key gateway for Muslim pilgrims traveling to Mecca. Its history dates back to pre-Islamic times, but it gained prominence in the 7th century under Caliph Uthman, who established it as the official port for Mecca. Today, Jeddah is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the historic Al-Balad district with its traditional coral-stone buildings, and its modern role as a commercial and diplomatic hub.