Understanding the Permissibility of Buying Jewelry in Saudi Arabia Without Tax When Paying in Cash
Question: Some gold shops in Saudi Arabia sell jewelry without a 15% government tax if paid in cash, while online payments include this tax. Is it permissible to purchase jewelry this way?
Answer: If jewelry purchased with cash does not incur a tax, then buying it in this manner is permissible. Cash transactions are the original form of buying and selling. Online payments are an added convenience, and sometimes legal issues arise for not paying online. Therefore, one should make purchases while keeping such legal matters in mind.
Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah
Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia
English Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail