Saudi Arabia has emerged as the most advanced market in the region for cross-channel shopping, according to the 2025 Global Digital Shopping Index commissioned by Visa Acceptance Solutions and conducted by PYMNTS Intelligence. The study highlights how the Kingdom’s retail landscape is being transformed by digital adoption, mobile commerce, and evolving consumer expectations.
The survey, which included 2,191 consumers and 240 merchants in Saudi Arabia, found that 34% of Saudi shoppers blend online and in-store purchasing experiences — far exceeding the global average of 27.5%. Nearly two-thirds (66%) used their mobile phones in their most recent retail purchase, compared to the global average of 48%.
The findings also reveal that 72% of Saudi consumers say their choice of merchant depends on the availability of their preferred payment method, significantly higher than the global benchmark of 55%. Additionally, almost half (46.7%) of consumers store payment information with merchants for convenience.
Ali Bailoun, Visa’s Regional General Manager for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman, said, “Saudi Arabia’s retail sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by a tech-savvy population, strong digital infrastructure, and progressive regulations. We’re proud to work with the Kingdom’s government partners, banks, and merchants to deliver secure, flexible payment experiences across all channels.”
The report encourages Saudi retailers to focus on frictionless checkout experiences, offer multiple secure payment options, and provide incentives like free delivery and loyalty rewards to meet evolving shopper expectations and align with Vision 2030’s goals for a world-class digital economy.
The Global Digital Shopping Index 2025 surveyed 18,468 consumers and 3,464 merchants across eight countries, including the U.S., U.K., Brazil, Mexico, Singapore, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
