Al Etihad Payments prepares to launch new domestic card scheme in UAE this month

Launch of Jaywan Card Scheme by CBUAE

  • Overview:
    • The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) is launching a domestic card scheme named Jaywan through its subsidiary, Al Etihad Payments.
    • Developed in partnership with India’s NPCI International.
  • Objectives:
    • Part of nine Financial Infrastructure Transformation (FIT) initiatives launched last year.
    • Aims to enhance payment options with a focus on e-commerce, digital transactions, and financial inclusion.
  • Progress:
    • Follow-up to the launch of the instant payment platform Aani in October.
    • Collaboration with Core42 to set global standards for the open finance sector in April.
  • Implementation:
    • Roll-out will be phased, prioritizing acquirer acceptance over customer issuance initially.
    • E-commerce acceptance to be introduced later in the year.
  • Initial Acquirer:
    • Network International, a Dubai-based digital commerce company, will be among the first to activate Jaywan.
    • Plans to introduce Jaywan to the 60,000 merchants it serves across the UAE.
  • Key Comments:
    • Jan Pilbauer, CEO of Al Etihad Payments, confirmed the phased roll-out.
    • Nandan Mer, Group CEO of Network International, emphasizes the importance of digitalizing the UAE economy.
    • Jamal Al Nassai, Group Managing Director for Merchant Services at Network International, highlights the scheme’s role in reducing dependence on cash transactions and fostering a robust digital payments ecosystem in the UAE.
Laura M
Laura M
Laura is a financial reporter, editor, and researcher with a particular interest in fintech innovation, capital markets, and the evolving global banking landscape.

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