Doha, Qatar — Ooredoo Fintech, the financial arm of Ooredoo Qatar, has announced a strategic partnership with global payments leader PayPal. This groundbreaking collaboration enables Ooredoo Money users in Qatar to seamlessly transfer funds between their wallets and PayPal accounts, while unlocking access to PayPal’s global commerce capabilities.
This partnership is the first of its kind in the GCC region, marking a significant milestone for both companies. By integrating PayPal’s extensive international network with Ooredoo Fintech’s digital ecosystem, the initiative aims to empower consumers and businesses in Qatar with advanced cross-border payment solutions.
Seamless Access to Global Markets
Through this partnership, Ooredoo Money users will gain enhanced financial flexibility and access to global markets. Consumers can shop directly with PayPal’s worldwide network of merchants and transfer funds effortlessly between their PayPal and Ooredoo Money wallets. Small businesses in Qatar stand to benefit significantly, with streamlined access to international customers and new opportunities for growth.
“Our vision is to make sending money between cross-border digital wallets as easy as possible, removing unnecessary friction and delays,” said Otto Williams, PayPal’s Regional Head and General Manager for the Middle East, Africa, and CIS. “Our partnership with Ooredoo Fintech will help us expand access to PayPal’s global network, connecting Qatar consumers with millions of merchants around the world who accept PayPal. We are excited to launch our joint services with Ooredoo Money in Qatar early next year.”
A Gateway to Economic Diversification
Highlighting the significance of the partnership, Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor al-Thani, Chairman of Ooredoo Financial Services and CEO of Ooredoo Qatar, said, “Our collaboration with PayPal strengthens Ooredoo Fintech’s role as a gateway to the global economy for Qatar’s SMEs and consumers. This partnership allows us to offer unmatched access to international markets and payment solutions, helping small businesses in Qatar reach new customers abroad while enhancing the digital shopping experience for local consumers. Together, we’re building a fintech ecosystem that aligns with Qatar’s vision for economic diversification and digital empowerment.”
Regional Expansion on the Horizon
Mirko Giacco, Group CEO of Ooredoo Fintech, emphasized the broader implications of the collaboration. “Our partnership with PayPal represents a significant step toward extending our services to new markets across the region. We’re excited to expand this partnership beyond Qatar to empower consumers and businesses across the Gulf and MENA region with advanced financial capabilities, further strengthening our position as a regional leader in fintech innovation.”
Driving Cross-Border Commerce
The partnership aims to redefine cross-border commerce in the region, with an initial launch in Qatar slated for early 2025. By leveraging the strengths of both Ooredoo Fintech and PayPal, the collaboration is set to provide advanced financial tools and global connectivity, facilitating seamless transactions for consumers and businesses alike.
This strategic alliance represents a pivotal step in enhancing digital financial services in Qatar and beyond, aligning with the country’s broader vision for a diversified and digitally empowered economy.
