Jaywan card guide: Usage, acceptance points and what residents need to know.
Dubai: UAE banks, financial institutions and licensed exchange houses have begun introducing the Jaywan card, the country’s first domestic card payment scheme. The launch gives UAE residents another payment option alongside established international networks such as Visa and Mastercard.
For the UAE, the introduction of Jaywan represents a major step towards strengthening its financial infrastructure by reducing dependence on international card networks and enhancing control over domestic payment systems. For consumers, the card is expected to offer more cost-effective, convenient and secure payment solutions.
The UAE now joins a growing number of countries with their own national card schemes, including China’s UnionPay, Brazil’s Elo, Saudi Arabia’s mada and India’s RuPay.
So, what is the Jaywan card, how will it be introduced, and what advantages does it offer residents? Here is everything you need to know.
What is the Jaywan card?
Jaywan is the UAE’s first domestic card payment scheme, introduced by Al Etihad Payments, a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE. The system is designed to enhance the country’s payment infrastructure, with debit and prepaid cards being rolled out gradually by banks and financial institutions nationwide.
How Jaywan differs from existing card networks
Traditionally, most card payments in the UAE have been processed through international networks. Jaywan introduces a locally managed alternative, giving the country greater control over its payment ecosystem while ensuring that domestic payment data is processed and stored within the UAE.
Has the Jaywan card launched in the UAE?
Yes. The rollout of Jaywan is underway, with banks and other licensed financial institutions introducing the cards gradually over the coming months.
Current developments include:
- Eleven financial institutions, including FAB, ADCB, Emirates Islamic, CBD, Citi, Mbank and Botim, are ready to issue Jaywan cards, with additional banks, exchange houses and fintech companies expected to join in phases.
- Network International has enabled online payments through the Jaywan network across thousands of merchants in the UAE.
What are the benefits of Jaywan?
The domestic card scheme is expected to provide several benefits for consumers, businesses and the wider UAE economy:
Potentially lower banking costs
Over time, Jaywan could support more affordable banking services, including lower-fee or free debit card options. Merchants may also benefit from reduced transaction charges.
Reduced transaction costs
By providing a UAE-based alternative to international card networks, Jaywan can help lower processing costs, benefiting customers, local businesses and financial institutions.
Local payment data storage
Jaywan securely processes and stores payment-related data within the UAE, reducing reliance on overseas systems.
Faster and more efficient transactions
Domestic payments can be processed locally through the UAE’s payment infrastructure. Powered by UAESWITCH, Jaywan is designed to improve the speed and efficiency of local transactions.
Enhanced security features
Jaywan cards use advanced security measures, including 3D Secure, EMV chip technology, contactless payments and PIN protection.
Types of Jaywan cards
Currently, three types of Jaywan cards are available:
- Jaywan Prestige Debit Card
- Jaywan Royal Debit Card
- Jaywan Prepaid Card
Credit cards are expected to be introduced in the future.
The two debit card options provide access to a variety of offers across travel, shopping, dining, hotels, car rentals, groceries, attractions and amusement parks. The prepaid card is designed mainly for budgeting and expense management, while still providing access to many of the same benefits.
Customers can view the complete list of participating offers and locations through Al Etihad Payments’ official offers platform.
Premium card benefits
Premium Jaywan cardholders can enjoy benefits including:
- Priority Pass airport lounge access
- Travel insurance
- Purchase protection
- Jaywan Entertainer membership
- Careem+ discounts
- Reel Cinemas offers
- Airline-related benefits
- Discounts at more than 150 merchants across the UAE
Where is the Jaywan card accepted?
Jaywan cards can be used at:
- In-store and online purchases
- ATM cash withdrawals
- Compatible digital wallet services
Integration with major digital wallets, including Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay, is expected to be introduced soon.
Can Jaywan cards be used abroad?
Yes. Jaywan cards will support international usage across more than 100 countries, with the rollout taking place in phases. However, overseas acceptance will depend on the type of card issued and the terms set by the issuing bank. Customers are advised to check their card details before travelling internationally.
Jaywan and RuPay: UAE-India collaboration
Jaywan has strong links with India’s domestic card network, RuPay. In October 2023, Al Etihad Payments partnered with NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) to develop the UAE’s first national domestic card payment scheme.
NIPL’s parent organisation, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), developed RuPay, India’s homegrown card network launched in 2012. Jaywan follows a similar approach, using this expertise to create a locally governed alternative to international payment networks.
How to apply for a Jaywan card
Residents interested in getting a Jaywan card can contact their bank to confirm availability, as well as check the applicable offers, terms and conditions.
Jaywan represents a significant move towards strengthening the UAE’s financial independence by providing residents with a potentially more affordable, efficient and secure payment option. As the rollout expands, more banks, services and benefits are expected to be added to the scheme.
