Cryptocurrency Regulations in Saudi Arabia: What You Need to Know in 2025

When it comes to cryptocurrency regulations Saudi, the legal framework governing digital asset use, trading, and taxation in Saudi Arabia. Also known as Saudi crypto law, it’s one of the most aggressive and rapidly evolving systems in the Middle East. Unlike countries that banned crypto outright, Saudi Arabia chose control—strict licensing, heavy oversight, and zero tolerance for unregistered platforms. The Central Bank of Saudi Arabia (SAMA) now requires every crypto exchange operating in the kingdom to hold a formal license, prove financial stability, and comply with anti-money laundering rules that mirror global standards from the FATF.

This isn’t just about exchanges. crypto taxation Saudi, how the government treats crypto as a taxable asset. Also known as crypto income rules Saudi, it’s still being clarified, but early guidance suggests capital gains on crypto sales are taxable under personal income law, and businesses must report holdings like any other asset. Meanwhile, crypto exchanges Saudi, platforms legally allowed to operate in the country. Also known as licensed crypto platforms Saudi, must now partner with local banks, implement full KYC, and submit daily transaction reports. No more anonymous trading. No more offshore wallets. If you’re using Binance, KuCoin, or any unlicensed platform inside Saudi Arabia, you’re breaking the law.

The government’s push isn’t just about control—it’s about integration. Saudi Arabia wants to be a regional crypto hub, but only on its own terms. That means crypto compliance Middle East, the standards and practices adopted by Gulf nations to align with global financial norms. Also known as GCC crypto rules, Saudi Arabia is setting the tone for the whole region. Other countries are watching closely, and many are copying its licensing model. This isn’t a temporary crackdown. It’s the new normal.

What does this mean for you? If you’re trading crypto in Saudi Arabia, you need to use only licensed platforms. If you’re holding crypto, you need to track every transaction. If you’re thinking of launching a crypto project, you need legal counsel before you write a single line of code. The rules are clear, the penalties are harsh, and the enforcement is real. The days of gray-area trading are over.

Below, you’ll find real reviews and investigations into platforms that claim to serve Saudi users—and the ones that don’t. Some are outright scams. Others are trying to operate in the shadows. We’ve dug into the details so you don’t have to risk your money on the wrong exchange, fake airdrop, or unregulated token. This isn’t theory. It’s what’s happening right now in the Saudi crypto space.