GCC outward remittances hit a record $161 billion in 2025 (up 13.6%), with Saudi expats alone sending SAR 165.5 billion. There is NO new tax, cap, or paperwork on outward personal remittances per GCC-Stat and SAMA reporting — only the existing 15% VAT on the transfer FEE (not the principal) plus the usual FX spread of 0.8–2.2%. What it means for you: ignore any ‘6%+ remittance levy’ claim — it is contradicted by official reporting — and ignore agents or messages charging a ‘remittance tax’; compare only the fee and the exchange rate. Sources: Saudi Life Guide, Expat Focus, GCC-Stat/SAMA reporting. Related: Saudi end-of-service calculator.