Visa Releases Third Edition of Where Cash Hides Research Across the GCC
Visa has released the third edition of its Where Cash Hides research, offering one of the region’s most comprehensive views into how consumers across the GCC are shifting from cash to digital payments. It identifies opportunities for building a more connected, cash-lite future across the GCC, and forms part of Visa’s broader commitment to cash displacement, ecosystem innovation, and financial inclusion.
Based on a survey of 1,200 individuals across the GCC conducted in late 2025, the study highlights a clear and accelerating transition toward faster, safer, and more convenient digital payment experiences. Across markets, the findings confirm rising confidence in digital payments and a broad decline in cash usage — even in traditionally cash-heavy categories such as peer-to-peer transfers, tips, local markets, and public transport.
All countries show strong momentum toward card and mobile payments, with many consumers now identifying digital options as their preferred everyday method of payment. For instance, research shows 64% of Omani consumers and 67% of Saudi consumers are now largely non-cash users, while the UAE reports an expanding base of digital adopters with only 16% of consumers still using cash for everyday purchases.
To learn more, individual market releases for all six GCC countries, along with a short regional video summarizing the study’s overarching trends, are included below. These insights show where cash remains entrenched, why consumers choose it, and where the greatest opportunities lie for accelerating the region’s shift toward secure, digital-first commerce.
