The Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) will quarantine banknotes and coins it receives from local and international sources as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Currency and electronic payment tools, are considered possible ways in which the virus can be passed on by SAMA. They will therefore isolate notes and coins in sealed units for between 14 and 20 days, depending on where the cash came from. Banknotes and coins will undergo a special treatment mechanism to ensure they are safe to use. Then they will be sorted by machines automatically in accordance with the authority’s quality standards, and dirty or unfit notes destroyed immediately. The treated notes and coins will be stored in the authority’s treasury and delivered to banks upon request, allowing them to be held in isolation for a longer period. Full story
