The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has added the Electronic Check Clearing System (ECCS) to its official e-Services platform, enabling checks to be cleared within one business day. The new system upgrades the traditional check-clearing process by digitising paper checks and converting them into secure images and data, allowing faster and fully automated exchange between banks. By eliminating the need for physical handling, ECCS accelerates fund availability while lowering operational costs and reducing fraud risks.
The system uses Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) alongside image-based processing to ensure more efficient transaction handling and quicker clearing and settlement compared to manual methods.
In a press release, SAMA said the move supports its digital transformation strategy, which focuses on delivering secure, automated services through a unified digital portal. The e-Services Portal provides digital alternatives to conventional procedures, improving user experience through faster processing, easier access and enhanced data protection.
Since its launch, the portal has offered services such as account and deposit inquiries for deceased individuals, complaint submissions, personal data rights requests, applications to join the Regulatory Sandbox and non-objection requests for leadership roles, with more services planned.
