Spending levels on various goods and services through point-of-sale terminals decreased by 9% to reach 12.2 billion riyals spent through 13.4 million transactions during the period from October 12-18.
Total spending on restaurants and cafes: 1.5 billion riyals
Data showed that total spending on restaurants and cafes was 1.5 billion riyals, baked goods and sweets 238.6 million riyals, transportation 914.8 million riyals, 818.6 million riyals on healthcare, in addition to 297.5 million riyals on hotels, and 1.9 billion riyals on food and beverages.
Consumers spent 880.5 million riyals on clothing and accessories, 289.3 million riyals on culture and entertainment, 671.2 million riyals on professional and business services, 182.3 million riyals on electronic and electrical appliances, while 405.3 million riyals were spent on furniture and household supplies, 395.6 million riyals on construction and building materials, 429.8 million riyals on jewelry, and 153 million riyals on communications.
Additionally, 105.1 million riyals were spent on education, 47.7 million riyals on utilities and public services, 944.8 million riyals on fuel stations, 47.4 million riyals on laundry services, along with 1.9 billion riyals on other spending categories.
At the city level, 143.1 million riyals were spent in Abha, 353.2 million riyals in Khobar, 46.8 million riyals in Al-Baha, 619.6 million riyals in Dammam, 4.3 billion riyals in Riyadh, 253.6 million riyals in Taif, 480.3 million riyals in Medina, 221.8 million riyals in Tabuk, 181.8 million riyals in Hail, 132.9 million riyals in Jazan, and 4.6 billion riyals in Jeddah.
Riyadh
Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia, serving as the nation’s political and administrative center. Historically a walled oasis town, it was the historic capital of the First Saudi State; its modern prominence began after Abdulaziz Al-Saud captured its fortress in 1902, unifying the kingdoms and leading to the formation of the modern Saudi state. Today, it is a modern metropolis and a major financial hub, known for its striking skyscrapers like the Kingdom Centre.
Abha
Abha is the capital of Asir Province in southwestern Saudi Arabia, a city known as the “Bride of the Mountain” due to its stunning highland scenery and moderate climate. Historically, it was a key settlement for various tribes and formed part of the ancient trade routes. Today, it is a popular summer tourist destination, celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, traditional mud-brick architecture, and vibrant souks.
Khobar
Khobar is a major city and commercial hub in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province, located on the coast of the Persian Gulf. It grew from a small fishing village in the early 20th century into a vital center for the Saudi oil industry following the discovery of petroleum in the region. Today, it forms part of the larger Dammam metropolitan area and is known for its modern corniche, bustling business district, and vibrant shopping malls.
Al-Baha
Al-Baha is a scenic mountainous region in southwestern Saudi Arabia known for its lush forests and moderate climate, earning it the nickname “The Garden of the Hejaz.” Historically, it was home to ancient tribes and served as an important crossroads for trade and pilgrimage routes. The area features traditional stone architecture and numerous archaeological sites that reflect its long-standing cultural heritage.
Dammam
Dammam is a major port city on the Persian Gulf in eastern Saudi Arabia, serving as the capital of the Eastern Province. It experienced rapid growth following the discovery of oil in the region in the 1930s, transforming from a small fishing village into a key commercial and administrative hub. Today, it forms the core of the Dammam metropolitan area, a vital center for the Saudi oil industry and economy.
Taif
Taif is a scenic city in the mountains of western Saudi Arabia, historically known as the summer capital due to its moderate climate. It has a rich history dating back to pre-Islamic times and is famous for its rose gardens, which produce the highly valued Taif rose oil used in perfumery.
Medina
The Medina refers to the historic old city found in many North African towns, most famously in Fez, Morocco, and Tunis, Tunisia. These ancient quarters are typically walled and feature a dense, maze-like layout of narrow streets, bustling souks (markets), mosques, and traditional houses. Historically, they served as the administrative, commercial, and social heart of the city and are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites, preserving centuries of Islamic urban design and culture.
Tabuk
Tabuk is a historic city in northwestern Saudi Arabia, known for its strategic location on ancient trade routes. It is most famously associated with the Expedition of Tabuk, a significant military campaign led by the Prophet Muhammad in 630 CE. Today, the region features archaeological sites and is a gateway to Saudi Arabia’s developing tourism projects in the northwest.
