The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) is the Central Bank of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. SAMA was established in 1371H (1952). The objectives of the Bank are as follows:
1- Maintaining monetary stability.
2- Supporting financial sector stability, and promoting confidence in it.
3- Supporting economic growth.
SAMA’s functions are as stipulated in the Central Bank Law. Some of the functions and powers to achieve its objectives are listed below.
• Issuing the national currency
• Oversighting and supervising financial institutions
• Issuing regulations and instructions relevant to financial institutions and their business.
• Formulating and conducting monetary policy
• Managing FX reserves
• Acting as banker and advisor to the government
• Developing and operating the infrastructures of national payment, settlement and clearing systems
• Establishing procedures to ensure protection of financial institutions’ customers