What the two central banks announced
On 15 September 2026, the Saudi Central Bank and Qatar Central Bank announced gradual acceptance of Saudi mada cards in Qatar and Qatar Himyan cards in Saudi Arabia. The authorities describe it as a step in integrating national payment systems and expanding GCC payment infrastructure.
The Gulf Payment Network supports cash withdrawals at ATMs and purchases at point-of-sale terminals using GCC national debit cards. “Gradual” is important: the announcement does not say that every card, bank, merchant terminal, ATM or online checkout became compatible on the same day.
Check with the issuing bank before travel
Ask whether the card is enabled for use in the other country, whether a separate cross-border setting is required, and what daily purchase and withdrawal limits apply. Confirm foreign-currency conversion, ATM operator charges and any issuer fee. The central-bank announcement does not publish one universal fee for every bank and transaction.
Make sure the bank has a current mobile number for alerts and that the card will not expire during travel. Save the issuer’s official support number separately. Do not disclose a PIN, one-time password or full card details to someone who claims activation must be completed by phone.
At a terminal or ATM
Check the amount and currency displayed before approving. Shield the PIN and keep the receipt or app notification until the transaction is reconciled. If the terminal declines the card, use a backup method rather than allowing repeated uncontrolled attempts.
For cash withdrawal, inspect the ATM, use a machine at a bank or well-managed location and review any fee or conversion choice displayed. If cash is not dispensed but the account is debited, record the ATM location, time and amount and contact the issuing bank through an official channel.
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Enable and confirm
Ask the issuing bank about cross-border access, limits, fees and alerts.
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Review the terminal
Confirm the merchant, amount and currency before entering the PIN.
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Keep transaction evidence
Retain the receipt or alert and report a duplicate or failed transaction promptly.
What cross-border acceptance does not mean
It does not mean a mada or Himyan card is a credit card, that every online merchant accepts it, or that transactions are fee-free. It also does not replace the issuer’s fraud controls, balance requirements, merchant restrictions or cardholder agreement.
The central-bank announcements confirm the infrastructure initiative, while the issuing bank remains the practical source for a particular card. Travelers should carry at least one alternative payment method and keep cards and phones secure.