The UAE has launched its first national payment card scheme, with His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan inaugurating “Jiuan” and announcing the official rollout of the card across banks, financial institutions and licensed exchange houses, making it available for customers to use.
The launch took place during a meeting with Khalid Mohamed Balama, Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE, members of the board of directors of Al Etihad Payments, and several chief executives from local and international banks, financial institutions and payments companies, underscoring the close partnership between the Central Bank and the financial sector in supporting the national “Jiuan” payments ecosystem.
A strategic step for financial sovereignty
Sheikh Mansour said the launch of the UAE’s first national payments system, “Jiuan”, and the start of its national issuance represent a strategic step that strengthens the UAE’s sovereignty over its financial infrastructure. He said it also helps establish an advanced national payments framework that keeps pace with the country’s future ambitions and reflects the leadership’s vision for financial leadership.
He added that this achievement reflects the UAE’s commitment to continuing to build a more efficient, resilient and competitive financial sector, one that opens wider prospects for innovation, expands financial inclusion and consolidates the country’s position as a leading global hub for financial services. He said the move marks a key milestone in strengthening the national payments ecosystem, enhancing financial infrastructure efficiency and supporting the UAE’s digital transformation journey.
Phased rollout across the market
Banks and licensed financial institutions have begun issuing “Jiuan” cards in stages, and the rollout will continue over the coming months.
“Jiuan” cards in all categories are accepted at point-of-sale terminals, e-commerce platforms, ATMs and digital wallets. This supports contactless payments, online purchases and cash withdrawals, as well as domestic and international payment transactions, in line with approved regulations and in a way that provides customers with an integrated and secure payment experience.
Cardholders will also benefit from a comprehensive programme of privileges and offers, developed in cooperation with a number of strategic partners and spanning travel, shopping, hospitality and lifestyle sectors.
Central Bank leadership response
For his part, Khalid Mohamed Balama, Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE, said: “Inspired by the vision of the wise leadership and with the direct support and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the launch of Jiuan and the start of its national issuance represent a qualitative leap in the journey of developing payment services in the country, and confirm the ability of the financial sector to turn strategic visions into advanced national solutions in line with the objectives of We the UAE 2031, enhancing digital and innovative payments. We will continue to work with our partners to develop a more advanced financial ecosystem that supports economic growth and enhances the customer experience.”