Network International, the leading enabler of digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, has announced its role in driving payments innovation in the UAE by being among the first acquirers to activate ‘Jaywan’, the UAE’s Domestic Card Scheme. This initiative is in partnership with Al Etihad Payments, a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE).
The Jaywan Domestic Card Scheme is a significant step towards advancing the UAE national agenda by promoting efficiency and enhancing digital payments through increased card-based transactions across all customer segments. Jaywan aims to expand its international acceptance points, offering greater convenience for UAE residents in making card-based transactions abroad.
The cards will be available for issuance to all customers of UAE’s licensed financial institutions, including banks, exchange houses, and other entities.
As the leading acquirer in the region, Network International will leverage its 30 years of expertise to introduce this initiative to its extensive merchant network, driving payments innovation, digitization, and global interoperability.
Network International’s over 60,000 merchants in the UAE, spanning sectors such as high-end retail, hospitality, electronics, jewelry, and hypermarkets, will benefit from this new instant payment solution.
Nandan Mer, Group CEO of Network International, commented on the initiative: “The launch of the Jaywan scheme is a vital step towards digitalizing the UAE economy, and we are proud to drive this innovation through our extensive merchant network and expertise.
It aligns with Network International’s ambitious strategy to lead in payment solutions in the region, strengthening our commitment to innovation and excellence. The partnership with Al Etihad Payments, endorsed by CBUAE, underscores Network’s vision to empower businesses and merchants with the latest payment technologies.”
Jamal Al Nassai, Group Managing Director for Merchant Services – Middle East and North Africa at Network International, added: “Network International’s extensive industry knowledge and large nexus of merchants, combined with Al Etihad Payments’ infrastructure, positions us for success in establishing a robust digital payments ecosystem in the UAE. This ecosystem will reduce dependence on cash transactions, supporting the country on its path of innovation and growth bolstered by technology.”
Jan Pilbauer, CEO of Al Etihad Payments, stated: “Jaywan is designed to build an accessible and affordable payments network tailored to the specific needs and preferences of everyone in the UAE.
Our partnership with Network International reflects our commitment to meeting the ever-evolving needs of merchants, delivering greater convenience and seamless transaction capabilities. This collaboration will enable customers to transact effortlessly across the UAE, enhancing the overall payments experience for everyone.”
- Network among the first acquirers to launch ‘Jaywan’ with merchants.
- Owned and operated by Al Etihad Payments, subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE. Jaywan Domestic Card Scheme drives security, innovation, efficiency and global interoperability.
- Network continues to enrich the UAE’s path to a robust digital payments ecosystem.
About Network International:
Network International is a leading provider of digital commerce solutions in the MEA region, committed to driving innovation and excellence in payment solutions. With a presence across several sectors, Network International continues to empower businesses and merchants with cutting-edge payment technologies.
