Saudi E-Commerce Growth Sparks 17.5% Increase in Consumer Spending
RIYADH — Saudi Arabia’s consumer spending surged 17.5% year on year in April, reaching SR133.9 billion ($35.64 billion) — the largest monthly growth rate since May 2021, according to new data.
E‑commerce continued to reshape shopping habits, capturing nearly a quarter of total consumer spending, a historically high share. Point‑of‑sale sales also rose 11.8%, marking the fastest growth in more than two years and accounting for 44% of total spending.
Cash withdrawals increased 10% to SR42.4 billion, but cash’s share of spending remained near record lows, reinforcing the shift toward digital payments.
Fashion and telecommunications led POS sector growth, rising 48% and 36% respectively. Spending on clothing and accessories hit SR4.4 billion, or 7.5% of total POS spending.
Entertainment spending rose 19% in April, marking the ninth consecutive month of growth, reaching SR968 million as local events and activities expand.
The average transaction value fell nearly 9% to SR117, suggesting seasonal discounts or shifting patterns, while a broader consumer base drove higher transaction volumes.
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