As of May 24, 2025, the exchange rate between the Saudi Riyal (SAR) and the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) has shown a slight upward trend in the open market, reflecting the dynamic interplay of economic factors between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. According to the latest updates from the Forex Association of Pakistan, 1 Saudi Riyal is trading at approximately Rs. 75.38 for buying and Rs. 75.92 for selling in the open market. This marks a marginal increase of a few paisas compared to the previous day’s rates, signaling continued stability in the currency pair.
The Saudi Riyal, the official currency of Saudi Arabia, remains a critical financial anchor for Pakistan due to the strong economic ties between the two nations. With an estimated 2.5 million Pakistani expatriates working in Saudi Arabia, remittances play a pivotal role in stabilizing Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves. In February 2025 alone, remittances from Saudi Arabia reached $744.4 million, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s economic resilience.
The stability of the SAR to PKR exchange rate is underpinned by several factors, including consistent remittance inflows, robust trade relations, and Pakistan’s improving economic indicators. The State Bank of Pakistan reported total liquid foreign reserves of $15.58 billion as of late March 2025, providing a buffer against potential currency fluctuations. Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s fixed exchange rate policy, pegging the Riyal to the U.S. Dollar at 3.75 SAR to 1 USD since 1986, indirectly supports the stability of the SAR-PKR pair.
Market analysts note that the slight uptick in the exchange rate reflects moderate demand for the Riyal in Pakistan, driven by seasonal factors such as travel and trade. However, the open market rates can vary slightly from interbank rates, which stood at approximately Rs. 75.20 on May 23, 2025. Traders and expatriates are advised to monitor rates closely, as minor fluctuations are expected in the coming days due to global economic trends and local market dynamics.
For Pakistanis planning to exchange currency, experts recommend using authorized exchange companies to avoid inflated rates or potential fraud. The strong economic and cultural bonds between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia continue to foster a stable financial environment, with the SAR-PKR exchange rate serving as a key indicator of this enduring partnership.
