Etisalat and MasterCard Worldwide have collaborated with industry leaders to announce an innovative cashless mobile payments programme in the UAE.

“This is just the beginning of a new era in how we make payments in the UAE,” said Rashid Al Abbar, VP Home Product.  “Soon your mobile will buy you lunch, a cinema ticket, transport and much more.  It could become the single solution for many of your purchase needs in the very near future.” 

Ram Chari, CEO, Network International, said:  “Contactless payment is the new generation payment technology with the capability to change the way customers shop at POS terminals.  Driven by NFC mobile phones, this technology will witness increasing penetration in the next couple of years. 

“Having been at the forefront of innovative card management solutions, Network International will be working closely with Etisalat and MasterCard to lead the revolution in payment technologies and supply this product to financial institutions.”

“We are delighted to join forces with industry leaders to make this milestone announcement.  This product has the potential to significantly change the way consumers in the UAE make payments, Raghu Malhotra, general manager, Middle East, MasterCard Worldwide.  

“Around the world MasterCard has led the transformation of mobile phones in to secure mobile payment devices, providing consumers with a quick, secure and convenient payment option.  We’re excited that together with Etisalat we are playing a key role in transforming the payment landscape in the UAE.”