DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The UAE has started rolling out Jaywan, the country’s first domestic card payment scheme, giving residents a locally developed alternative alongside international payment networks such as Visa and Mastercard.
The new payment system is being introduced gradually by banks, financial institutions and licensed exchange houses as the UAE strengthens its digital financial infrastructure.
Jaywan was launched by Al Etihad Payments, a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE, with the aim of creating a nationally governed payment network for domestic transactions.
The scheme includes debit and prepaid card options and is designed to support everyday payments while increasing the UAE’s control over its payment ecosystem.
The launch places the UAE among countries that have developed their own national card networks, including India’s RuPay, Saudi Arabia’s mada, China’s UnionPay and Brazil’s Elo.
How Jaywan works
Jaywan cards can be used for regular payment services, including in-store purchases, online transactions, ATM withdrawals and compatible digital wallets.
The rollout is being conducted in phases, with several UAE financial institutions already introducing Jaywan products.
First Abu Dhabi Bank has launched a Jaywan debit card, while Commercial Bank of Dubai is introducing Jaywan prepaid cards. Network International has also enabled online payments through the network across thousands of merchants in the UAE.
More banks and financial institutions are expected to join as the system expands.
What benefits could Jaywan offer?
Officials say the domestic payment network could help improve transaction efficiency and provide greater flexibility for consumers and businesses.
Because payments are processed through a UAE-based system, the scheme is expected to strengthen local payment infrastructure and reduce reliance on overseas networks.
The system is also designed to support faster processing of domestic transactions through the UAE’s existing payment infrastructure.
For consumers, Jaywan could eventually contribute to more competitive banking products, while merchants may benefit from lower transaction costs associated with domestic payments.
Jaywan card options
The scheme currently includes three main card categories: Jaywan Prestige Debit Card, Jaywan Royal Debit Card and Jaywan Prepaid Card.
Debit cardholders can access offers covering areas such as travel, shopping, dining, hotels, car rentals and entertainment.
The prepaid option is designed more toward budgeting and expense management while offering access to selected benefits.
Acceptance details and available offers will depend on the issuing institution and participating merchants.
Jaywan and India’s RuPay connection
The development of Jaywan has also involved cooperation with India’s domestic payment network.
In 2023, Al Etihad Payments partnered with NPCI International Payments Limited, the international arm of India’s National Payments Corporation of India, to support the development of the UAE’s national card scheme.
India’s RuPay network, launched in 2012, became a model for building a locally controlled alternative to international payment systems.
What residents should know
Jaywan cards will continue expanding as more banks participate and additional services become available.
Residents planning to use the cards abroad should check with their issuing bank, as international acceptance will depend on the specific card and associated agreements.
The UAE’s move toward a domestic payment network reflects a broader push to strengthen fintech capabilities, improve digital payment options and build greater resilience within the country’s financial sector.
