How to Send Money from Saudi Arabia to India Using STC Pay

STC Pay has revolutionized digital banking in Saudi Arabia. Partnered directly with Western Union, it allows Indian expatriates to send Riyals (SAR) directly to Indian bank accounts or for cash pickup in a matter of seconds. But is it the cheapest way to send money home?

In this guide, we break down exactly how to use STC Pay, the hidden exchange rate margins, and the exact steps to add an international beneficiary.

Understanding STC Pay Fees and Exchange Rates

When you send money to India via STC Pay, you pay for the service in two ways: the flat transfer fee and the exchange rate margin.

• The Flat Fee: STC Pay typically charges 15 SAR + 15% VAT (Total: 17.25 SAR) for an international transfer to India.
• The Exchange Rate: STC Pay uses Western Union's exchange rates. These rates are usually 0.5% to 1.5% lower than the true mid-market rate you see on Google or our live calculator.

Step-by-Step: How to Add an Indian Beneficiary

Before you can send money, you must add the receiver's details. Have their Indian bank account number and IFSC code ready.

• 1
  Open STC Pay: Log into the app using your passcode or FaceID and tap on the "International Transfer" icon.
• 2
  Add New Receiver: Tap "Add New Receiver." Enter their full legal name exactly as it appears on their Indian bank account.
• 3
  Choose Delivery Method: Select "India" as the country. Choose either "Bank Account" (for direct deposit) or "Cash Pickup" (if they will collect it from a Western Union branch).
• 4
  Enter Bank Details: Input their Account Number, the bank's IFSC Code, and the purpose of transfer (e.g., "Family Support"). Save the beneficiary.

How to Track Your Transfer

Once you hit send, STC Pay will generate an MTCN (Money Transfer Control Number) provided by Western Union. You can share this MTCN with your family in India. They can use the Western Union tracking website to see exactly when the funds are available in their account.