Thunes, the global payments platform known as the “Smart Superhighway” for moving money worldwide, has launched real-time cross-border payments into Saudi Arabia.
Through its Direct Global Network, Thunes’ Members can now deliver instant payouts directly to bank accounts and wallets in Saudi Riyals (SAR), enhancing convenience for both businesses and individuals, according to FF News.
The initiative comes as Saudi Arabia accelerates the transformation of its financial sector under Vision 2030. Demand for transparent, rapid cross-border transactions has grown sharply, with the value of inbound remittances into the Kingdom forecast to reach $232bn in 2025, reflecting strong digital adoption and a rising volume of international transfers.
Thunes, headquartered in Singapore, connects global businesses and financial institutions through its extensive payment network, enabling faster, more reliable international transfers across emerging and developed markets.
The new product enables Thunes’ Members to connect directly with the Saudi banking network, providing faster, more cost-efficient and more transparent payments compared to traditional channels. The service addresses the critical need for speed in money transfers, highlighted in Thunes’ 2025 Report: Money Without Borders, which found that 65% of expatriates consider transaction speed the most important factor when sending funds.
The rollout will be especially valuable for overseas businesses managing Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage campaigns, who can now pay fees directly into the Kingdom seamlessly and securely. This ensures quicker settlement times and smoother experiences for millions of pilgrims.
The launch further strengthens Thunes’ leadership in real-time cross-border payments and underlines its role in supporting financial inclusion. By providing instant and secure payment infrastructure, the company enables individuals and businesses worldwide to engage more fully in the global economy.
Ahmad Yaacoub, VP MENA and country head for Saudi Arabia at Thunes, said, “Saudi Arabia’s financial sector is undergoing a rapid digital shift, and demand for faster, reliable cross-border payments has never been higher. Our launch of real-time payments into the Kingdom gives our Members the tools to meet these expectations and better serve both consumers and businesses.”
Aik Boon Tan, chief network officer at Thunes, added, “Speed is now a necessity in cross-border payments. Our real-time direct payout capability in Saudi Arabia equips our Members to deliver instant, secure, and transparent transfers into one of the Middle East’s most dynamic and rapidly-growing economies.”
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