Online shopping in Riyadh has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, transforming how both residents and tourists access products and services in Saudi Arabia’s capital. According to the Saudi E-commerce Council, the Kingdom’s e-commerce market reached $10 billion in 2023, with Riyadh accounting for a significant portion of this digital commerce activity. For tourists visiting Riyadh, online shopping platforms offer convenient access to everything from groceries and electronics to traditional souvenirs and local products, all deliverable to hotels or accommodations.
The convenience of online shopping in Riyadh extends beyond simple product purchases. Tourists can browse extensive product catalogs, compare prices across retailers, read reviews, and have items delivered without navigating unfamiliar streets or dealing with language barriers. Major e-commerce platforms in Saudi Arabia have developed robust infrastructure including multiple payment options, English-language interfaces, and reliable delivery services that make digital shopping accessible to international visitors.
This comprehensive guide explores the landscape of online shopping in Riyadh for tourists, covering major e-commerce platforms, essential shopping apps, delivery services, payment methods, and practical tips for maximizing the convenience and value of digital commerce while visiting Saudi Arabia’s capital. Whether tourists need groceries delivered to their hotel, want to purchase electronics with international warranties, or seek traditional Saudi products as gifts, online shopping in Riyadh provides efficient solutions.
The Growth of E-commerce in Riyadh and Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the Middle East’s largest and fastest-growing e-commerce markets. The country’s high internet penetration rate (over 97% according to DataReportal), widespread smartphone adoption, and young, tech-savvy population have created ideal conditions for digital commerce growth.
Riyadh, as the capital and largest city, serves as the epicenter of this e-commerce boom. The city’s extensive logistics infrastructure, concentration of retailers, and large consumer base make it the primary hub for online shopping operations in the Kingdom. Major international e-commerce platforms have established significant presence in Riyadh, while local platforms have developed sophisticated operations serving the capital’s diverse shopping needs.
For tourists, this mature e-commerce ecosystem means access to reliable platforms, extensive product selection, efficient delivery services, and customer support that can address international visitors’ specific needs. The infrastructure developed to serve Riyadh’s millions of residents extends seamlessly to tourists staying in the city’s hotels and accommodations.
Major E-commerce Platforms for Online Shopping in Riyadh
Several major e-commerce platforms dominate online shopping in Riyadh, each offering distinct advantages for tourists.
Amazon.sa
Amazon’s Saudi Arabian platform (amazon.sa) has become one of the most popular destinations for online shopping in Riyadh since its launch in 2020. The platform offers extensive product selection across virtually all categories, from electronics and books to fashion and home goods.
Advantages for Tourists:
- Familiar interface for international visitors already accustomed to Amazon
- English-language support throughout the platform
- Extensive product selection with millions of items
- Customer reviews and ratings to inform purchasing decisions
- Amazon Prime membership offering free delivery on eligible items
- Reliable delivery to hotels and accommodations
- International credit card acceptance
- Customer service available in English
Product Categories Available:
- •Electronics (smartphones, laptops, tablets, cameras)
- Books and e-readers
- Fashion and accessories
- Home and kitchen products
- Beauty and personal care
- Sports and outdoor equipment
- Toys and games
- Grocery items (through Amazon Fresh)
Amazon.sa has established fulfillment centers in Riyadh, enabling fast delivery (often same-day or next-day) for items stocked locally. For tourists staying in Riyadh for extended periods, Amazon Prime membership (available for a monthly or annual fee) provides free delivery on millions of items, making it cost-effective for multiple purchases.
Noon.com
Noon.com is a major regional e-commerce platform with strong presence in Saudi Arabia and significant operations in Riyadh. Founded in 2017, Noon has quickly become one of the leading online shopping destinations in the region, competing directly with international platforms through localized service and extensive Arabic and English support.
Advantages for Tourists:
- Bilingual platform (Arabic and English)
- Extensive selection of local and international products
- Competitive pricing with frequent promotions
- Noon Minutes service offering ultra-fast delivery (15 minutes) on selected items in certain areas
- NoonPay option for flexible payment
- Strong focus on electronics and fashion
- Delivery to hotels accepted
- Local customer service understanding regional context
Product Categories Available:
- Electronics and appliances
- Fashion (international and local brands)
- Beauty and fragrances
- Home and living
- Baby and toys
- Sports and fitness
- Grocery items (through NoonFood)
Noon’s competitive advantage lies in its understanding of regional preferences and its aggressive promotional campaigns. The platform frequently offers discount codes, flash sales, and special promotions that provide value for price-conscious shoppers. For tourists interested in purchasing local products or regional brands not available on international platforms, Noon offers excellent selection.
Jarir.com
Jarir Bookstore’s online platform extends the popular retailer’s physical presence into digital commerce. While the name suggests a bookstore, Jarir.com offers comprehensive selection of electronics, office supplies, and educational materials alongside books.
Advantages for Tourists:
- Specialization in electronics with competitive pricing
- Genuine products with manufacturer warranties
- Bilingual platform (Arabic and English)
- Integration with physical stores for pickup options
- Reliable delivery services
- Strong reputation for authentic electronics
- Educational discounts available
- Comprehensive product information and specifications
Product Categories Available:
- Electronics (computers, tablets, smartphones)
- Books (Arabic and English)
- Office supplies and stationery
- Software and digital products
- Gaming consoles and video games
- Cameras and photography equipment
- Smart home devices
For tourists interested in purchasing electronics while in Riyadh, Jarir.com provides reliable access to genuine products with proper warranties. The platform’s integration with physical Jarir stores throughout Riyadh also enables convenient pickup options for tourists who prefer to collect purchases rather than wait for delivery.
eXtra.com
eXtra’s online platform extends the electronics and appliances retailer’s extensive physical presence into e-commerce. The platform specializes in electronics, home appliances, and tech products.
Advantages for Tourists:
- Specialization in electronics and appliances
- Competitive pricing with frequent promotions
- Delivery and installation services for appliances
- Trade-in programs for old electronics
- Extended warranty options
- Integration with physical stores
- Bilingual support
Product Categories Available:
- Televisions and home entertainment
- Computers and tablets
- Smartphones and accessories
- Home appliances (refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners)
- Small appliances
- Gaming consoles and accessories
eXtra.com is particularly valuable for tourists making significant electronics purchases or expats setting up long-term accommodations in Riyadh. The platform’s delivery and installation services for large appliances provide convenience that extends beyond simple product delivery.
Carrefour Online
Carrefour’s online shopping platform brings the hypermarket’s extensive grocery and household product selection to digital commerce. For tourists staying in serviced apartments or accommodations with kitchens, Carrefour online provides convenient access to groceries and household essentials.
Advantages for Tourists:
- Comprehensive grocery selection
- Fresh food delivery
- Household products and essentials
- Competitive pricing with frequent promotions
- Integration with Carrefour’s MyClub loyalty program
- Scheduled delivery slots
- Bilingual platform
Product Categories Available:
- Fresh produce, meat, and seafood
- Dairy and bakery products
- Pantry staples and packaged foods
- Beverages
- Household cleaning products
- Personal care items
- Baby products
- Electronics and home goods
For tourists staying in Riyadh for extended periods, Carrefour online eliminates the need to visit physical stores for groceries and household items. The platform’s scheduled delivery slots allow tourists to plan deliveries around their itineraries, and the extensive selection ensures access to both international brands and local products. To maximize savings, tourists can explore Carrefour offers in Riyadh for current promotions and deals.
Essential Shopping Apps for Tourists in Riyadh
Beyond major e-commerce platforms, several specialized apps enhance the online shopping experience in Riyadh.
Delivery Apps
HungerStation: While primarily known for food delivery, HungerStation also offers grocery delivery and shopping services. The app provides access to restaurants, supermarkets, and convenience stores with delivery to hotels and accommodations.
Jahez: Another popular food and grocery delivery app with extensive restaurant and store partnerships throughout Riyadh. The app offers English interface and accepts international payment methods.
Marsool: A delivery app that can pick up and deliver items from virtually any store in Riyadh, even those without their own delivery services. Tourists can use Marsool to purchase items from specific stores and have them delivered to hotels.
Fashion and Lifestyle Apps
Namshi: The leading online fashion retailer in the Middle East, offering international and regional brands with delivery throughout Riyadh. The app features extensive fashion selection, frequent sales, and easy returns.
6thStreet: Fashion e-commerce platform offering clothing, footwear, and accessories from international brands. The app provides personalized recommendations and regular promotional campaigns.
Electronics and Tech Apps
Xcite: Electronics retailer app offering smartphones, computers, appliances, and tech accessories with competitive pricing and delivery services.
Virgin Megastore App: Access to electronics, books, music, and entertainment products with delivery throughout Riyadh.
Grocery and Household Apps
Nana: Grocery delivery app partnering with major supermarkets to deliver fresh food and household items. The app offers scheduled delivery and fresh product selection.
Trolley: Grocery shopping app aggregating products from multiple supermarkets, allowing price comparison and delivery from preferred retailers.
Payment Methods for Online Shopping in Riyadh
Understanding available payment methods is crucial for tourists engaging in online shopping in Riyadh.
International Credit and Debit Cards
Most major e-commerce platforms in Riyadh accept international credit and debit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Tourists can use their home country cards for purchases, though foreign transaction fees may apply depending on the card issuer.
Tips for Using International Cards:
- Notify your bank before traveling to avoid fraud blocks on international transactions
- Verify that your card has international transaction capabilities enabled
- Be aware of foreign transaction fees (typically 1-3% of purchase amount)
- Check exchange rates applied by your card issuer
- Keep receipts for all transactions
Digital Wallets
Several digital wallet options are available for online shopping in Riyadh:
Apple Pay: Widely accepted on major e-commerce platforms, Apple Pay provides secure, convenient payment for tourists with iPhones or Apple devices.
STC Pay: Saudi Telecom Company’s digital wallet, popular among residents but requiring local setup that may not be practical for short-term tourists.
Mada: The Saudi national payment system, primarily for local bank cards but increasingly integrated with digital wallets.
Cash on Delivery
Many e-commerce platforms and delivery services in Riyadh offer cash on delivery (COD) as a payment option. This allows tourists to pay in Saudi Riyals when items are delivered, avoiding the need to use international cards or set up local payment methods.
Advantages of Cash on Delivery:
- No need to provide credit card information online
- Pay in local currency
- Inspect items before paying
- Avoid foreign transaction fees
Considerations:
- Requires having sufficient Saudi Riyals cash available
- Some platforms charge small fees for COD
- May not be available for all products or high-value items
- Delivery personnel may not have change for large bills
Bank Transfers
For larger purchases, some retailers accept bank transfers, though this is less common for tourist transactions and typically requires local banking relationships.
Delivery Services and Logistics
Understanding delivery options and logistics is essential for successful online shopping in Riyadh as a tourist.
Delivery to Hotels
Most e-commerce platforms and delivery services in Riyadh readily deliver to hotels. When placing orders, tourists should:
- Provide complete hotel name and address
- Include hotel phone number as contact number
- Specify room number if required
- Inform hotel reception that a delivery is expected
- Be available to receive delivery or authorize hotel staff to accept on your behalf
Many hotels in Riyadh are accustomed to receiving deliveries for guests and will hold packages at reception for collection. Confirming the hotel’s policy on accepting deliveries before placing orders is advisable.
Delivery to Serviced Apartments and Accommodations
For tourists staying in serviced apartments, vacation rentals, or other accommodations, delivery procedures are similar to residential delivery. Providing complete address information, building name, apartment number, and contact phone number ensures successful delivery.
Delivery Timeframes
Delivery timeframes for online shopping in Riyadh vary by platform, product, and location:
Same-Day Delivery: Available from major platforms like Amazon, Noon, and grocery delivery apps for orders placed before cutoff times (typically early afternoon). Same-day delivery is particularly common for items stocked in local fulfillment centers.
Next-Day Delivery: Standard for most e-commerce orders in Riyadh, with next-day delivery available for orders placed before evening cutoff times.
2-3 Day Delivery: Common for items not stocked locally or requiring processing time.
Express Delivery: Some platforms offer express or rush delivery (within hours) for premium fees.
Scheduled Delivery: Grocery platforms typically offer scheduled delivery slots, allowing tourists to select specific delivery windows that align with their schedules.
Delivery Fees
Delivery fees vary by platform and order value:
- Many platforms offer free delivery for orders above minimum thresholds (commonly SAR 100-200)
- Prime or membership programs often include free delivery benefits
- Express or same-day delivery may incur additional fees
- Remote areas or locations outside central Riyadh may have higher delivery charges
Tracking Orders
Most e-commerce platforms provide order tracking functionality, allowing tourists to monitor delivery status in real-time. Tracking typically includes:
- Order confirmation and processing status
- Dispatch notification when items leave fulfillment center
- Courier assignment and contact information
- Real-time location tracking (on some platforms)
- Estimated delivery time updates
- Delivery confirmation
What to Buy Online vs. In-Store While in Riyadh
Strategic decisions about what to purchase online versus in physical stores can optimize the shopping experience for tourists in Riyadh.
Best Items to Buy Online
Groceries and Household Essentials: Online grocery shopping eliminates the need to navigate supermarkets, provides home delivery, and allows easy price comparison. For tourists in serviced apartments or extended stays, online grocery delivery is highly convenient.
Electronics with International Warranties: Purchasing electronics online from reputable platforms ensures genuine products with proper warranties, detailed specifications, and competitive pricing without the need to visit multiple stores.
Heavy or Bulky Items: Items that are difficult to transport (water, rice, cleaning supplies, furniture) are ideal for online purchase with delivery.
Gifts and Souvenirs: Traditional Saudi products, dates, perfumes, and gifts can be purchased online and delivered, avoiding the need to carry them during travel.
Books and Media: English-language books, e-books, and digital media are readily available online with delivery or instant digital access.
Best Items to Buy In-Store
Fresh Food Requiring Selection: While online grocery delivery is convenient, some tourists prefer to personally select fresh produce, meat, and seafood. Physical markets and supermarkets allow inspection of fresh items before purchase.
Traditional Souk Items: The experience of visiting traditional souks in Riyadh is part of the cultural experience. Items like gold jewelry, spices, and traditional crafts are best purchased in person where negotiation and personal selection are part of the experience.
Clothing Requiring Fitting: While online fashion shopping is convenient, items requiring fitting (shoes, tailored clothing) are better purchased in physical stores where trying before buying is possible.
High-Value Items Requiring Inspection: Expensive electronics, jewelry, or collectibles may warrant in-person inspection before purchase.
Immediate Need Items: When items are needed immediately, visiting physical stores is faster than waiting for delivery.
For comprehensive information about physical shopping options in Riyadh, including malls, souks, and specialty stores, tourists can explore the complete shopping in Riyadh guide.
Tips for Tourists Shopping Online in Riyadh
Several practical tips can enhance the online shopping experience for tourists in Riyadh.
Verify Delivery Address Accuracy
Ensure that delivery addresses are complete and accurate, including hotel name, street address, district, and contact phone number. Incomplete addresses can result in delivery delays or failures.
Check Product Specifications and Compatibility
When purchasing electronics, verify voltage compatibility (Saudi Arabia uses 220V), plug types (Type G), and regional specifications. Some electronics may have region-specific features or warranty limitations.
Read Reviews and Ratings
Product reviews from other customers provide valuable insights into quality, sizing, and performance. Reading reviews before purchasing reduces the likelihood of disappointment.
Understand Return Policies
Familiarize yourself with return policies before purchasing, particularly for expensive items. Most major platforms offer return windows (typically 7-15 days), but understanding specific terms, conditions, and procedures is important.
Save Confirmation Emails and Order Numbers
Keep all order confirmations, tracking numbers, and receipts. These documents are essential for tracking deliveries, processing returns, and addressing any issues.
Use Secure Internet Connections
When making online purchases, use secure internet connections rather than public Wi-Fi to protect payment information and personal data.
Check for Promotional Codes and Discounts
Before completing purchases, search for promotional codes, first-time user discounts, or ongoing sales. Many platforms offer welcome discounts for new users or regular promotional campaigns.
Consider Timing for Deliveries
Schedule deliveries for times when you’ll be at your accommodation to receive them. If you’ll be out exploring Riyadh, coordinate with hotel reception to accept deliveries on your behalf.
Verify Seller Reputation on Marketplace Platforms
On marketplace platforms where third-party sellers list products, verify seller ratings and reviews before purchasing. Stick to highly-rated sellers with positive feedback.
Compare Prices Across Platforms
Before making significant purchases, compare prices across multiple platforms. The same product may be available at different prices on Amazon, Noon, and specialty retailers.
Online Shopping for Specific Tourist Needs
Online shopping in Riyadh can address various specific needs that tourists may encounter.
Forgotten or Lost Items
Tourists who forgot to pack items or lost belongings during travel can quickly replace them through online shopping with delivery to hotels. Common items easily replaced online include:
- Phone chargers and electronics accessories
- Toiletries and personal care items
- Clothing and footwear
- Medications (over-the-counter)
- Travel accessories
Gifts and Souvenirs
Rather than carrying gifts and souvenirs throughout travel, tourists can purchase traditional Saudi products online and have them delivered to hotels shortly before departure. Popular items include:
- Dates (various premium varieties)
- Arabian perfumes and oud
- Traditional textiles and clothing
- Handicrafts and decorative items
- Spices and traditional foods
For information about authentic Saudi products and souvenirs, tourists can reference the guide on what to buy in Riyadh.
Extended Stay Provisions
Tourists staying in Riyadh for extended periods (business travel, long visits) can use online shopping to provision accommodations with:
- Groceries and food supplies
- Household cleaning products
- Kitchen supplies and cookware
- Linens and towels
- Entertainment (books, games, electronics)
Special Dietary Requirements
Online grocery platforms allow tourists with specific dietary requirements to search for appropriate products, read ingredient lists, and find specialty items that may be difficult to locate in unfamiliar physical stores.
Combining Online and Physical Shopping in Riyadh
The most effective shopping strategy for tourists often combines online and physical shopping, leveraging the advantages of each approach.
Online Shopping Advantages:
- Convenience and time savings
- Home delivery eliminating transport concerns
- Easy price comparison
- Access to extensive product ranges
- English-language interfaces
- Detailed product information and reviews
Physical Shopping Advantages:
- Immediate product access
- Personal inspection and selection
- Cultural and experiential aspects
- Negotiation opportunities (in traditional markets)
- No delivery wait times
- Ability to ask questions and receive immediate assistance
Tourists can use online shopping for groceries, household items, and products where convenience is paramount, while reserving physical shopping for experiences like visiting luxury shopping destinations, exploring traditional gold souks, or browsing budget-friendly markets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Shopping in Riyadh for Tourists
Q: Can tourists use international credit cards for online shopping in Riyadh?
A: Yes, most major e-commerce platforms in Riyadh accept international credit and debit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Tourists should notify their banks before traveling to avoid fraud blocks and be aware of potential foreign transaction fees (typically 1-3% of purchase amount).
Q: Will online retailers deliver to hotels in Riyadh?
A: Yes, most e-commerce platforms and delivery services readily deliver to hotels. Tourists should provide complete hotel information (name, address, phone number) when ordering and inform hotel reception that a delivery is expected. Many hotels routinely accept deliveries for guests and hold packages at reception.
Q: What are typical delivery timeframes for online shopping in Riyadh?
A: Delivery timeframes vary by platform and product. Same-day delivery is available from major platforms for orders placed before afternoon cutoff times. Next-day delivery is standard for most orders. Grocery delivery apps often offer scheduled delivery slots within hours. Express delivery options are available for premium fees.
Q: Is cash on delivery available for tourists?
A: Yes, many e-commerce platforms and delivery services offer cash on delivery (COD) as a payment option. This allows tourists to pay in Saudi Riyals when items are delivered, avoiding the need to use international cards. Tourists should ensure they have sufficient cash available and note that delivery personnel may not have change for large bills.
Q: Can tourists return items purchased online if they’re not satisfied?
A: Most major e-commerce platforms offer return policies (typically 7-15 days) for items that are unused and in original packaging. However, processing returns as a tourist can be complicated if the return window extends beyond your stay in Riyadh. Reading return policies carefully before purchasing and considering whether you’ll be able to complete returns if necessary is advisable.
Q: Are prices on online platforms competitive with physical stores in Riyadh?
A: Prices on major e-commerce platforms are generally competitive with physical stores, and online platforms frequently offer promotional discounts, flash sales, and exclusive online deals. Price comparison across platforms and with physical stores is straightforward using online tools and can help identify the best value.
Q: What items are best to buy online vs. in physical stores while visiting Riyadh?
A: Online shopping is ideal for groceries, household essentials, electronics with international warranties, heavy items, and gifts/souvenirs. Physical shopping is better for fresh food requiring personal selection, traditional souk items (gold, spices, crafts), clothing requiring fitting, and items needed immediately. The best approach combines both methods based on specific needs.
Q: Do online shopping platforms in Riyadh have English-language support?
A: Yes, major e-commerce platforms including Amazon.sa, Noon, Jarir, and eXtra offer comprehensive English-language interfaces. Customer service is also available in English on these platforms. Smaller or specialized platforms may have limited English support, though most major retailers recognize the importance of serving international customers.
Q: Can tourists purchase traditional Saudi products online?
A: Yes, traditional Saudi products including dates, perfumes, oud, spices, traditional clothing, and handicrafts are available through online platforms. Noon and specialized retailers offer extensive selection of local products. Purchasing these items online and having them delivered to hotels before departure eliminates the need to carry them during travel.
Q: Are there any restrictions on what tourists can purchase online in Riyadh?
A: Most consumer products are available for purchase without restrictions. However, certain items (alcohol, pork products, some medications) are prohibited in Saudi Arabia and not available for purchase. Prescription medications require valid prescriptions. Electronics and high-value items can be purchased freely, though tourists should be aware of customs regulations when taking purchases out of the country.
Conclusion
Online shopping in Riyadh provides tourists with convenient, efficient access to a comprehensive range of products and services, from groceries and household essentials to electronics and traditional Saudi souvenirs. The city’s mature e-commerce ecosystem, developed to serve millions of residents, extends seamlessly to international visitors through English-language platforms, international payment acceptance, reliable delivery services, and customer support that addresses tourists’ specific needs.
The major e-commerce platforms operating in Riyadh—Amazon.sa, Noon, Jarir, eXtra, and Carrefour online, offer extensive product selection, competitive pricing, and delivery services that eliminate many of the challenges associated with shopping in an unfamiliar city. For tourists staying in hotels or serviced apartments, the ability to browse products, compare prices, read reviews, and have items delivered directly to accommodations provides significant convenience and time savings.
The key to successful online shopping in Riyadh as a tourist lies in understanding available platforms, payment methods, delivery options, and best practices. Using international credit cards or cash on delivery for payment, providing accurate delivery addresses with hotel information, scheduling deliveries appropriately, and reading return policies before purchasing all contribute to smooth online shopping experiences.
Strategic combination of online and physical shopping optimizes the overall shopping experience in Riyadh. Online shopping excels for convenience items, groceries, electronics, and products where home delivery provides clear value. Physical shopping remains valuable for experiential aspects, items requiring personal selection or fitting, and cultural experiences like visiting traditional souks and markets. Tourists can explore comprehensive physical shopping options through guides to shopping in Riyadh and traditional markets.
As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in digital infrastructure and e-commerce capabilities, online shopping in Riyadh will become increasingly sophisticated, convenient, and accessible to international visitors. Tourists who embrace these digital shopping options alongside traditional physical shopping experiences will find that Riyadh offers comprehensive retail solutions that combine modern convenience with cultural authenticity, creating shopping experiences that serve both practical needs and exploratory interests.
