RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – Mastercard has announced the launch of a world-class technology infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, designed to facilitate local processing of e-commerce transactions. This initiative aims to provide a seamless and secure payment experience for both Mastercard partners and consumers, further accelerating the Kingdom’s digital commerce landscape.
Under the patronage of The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), the establishment of the Mastercard Gateway enhances the company’s footprint in the region, demonstrating Mastercard’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation, economic diversification, and innovation goals.
Mastercard Gateway serves as a single touchpoint for powering payment and digital acceptance solutions across both new and existing markets and channels, locally and globally. Merchants will benefit from support for over 30 different payment methods and risk management solutions, including fraud detection and prevention, while customers receive advanced protection against cybercrime.
This innovative infrastructure, combined with tailor-made applications and services, will enable efficient and secure processing of local e-commerce transactions.
Adam Jones, Division President for West Arabia at Mastercard, stated, “As a company that powers economies and empowers people, we recognize the importance of a world-class payment infrastructure. We are proud of our long legacy in the Kingdom, and the launch of our secure technology infrastructure is a landmark moment reinforcing our commitment to digitization and diversification. We will continue to collaborate closely with local leadership to enhance the payments ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.”
In line with Saudi Vision 2030, this project aims to strengthen payment platforms and the broader ecosystem, drive digital transformation, and bolster the national economy through locally relevant technology.
Mastercard has seen substantial growth in digital payment acceptance in Saudi Arabia, offering secure payment options for consumers and businesses. The rapid evolution of payments is enriching the financial ecosystem with innovative solutions in fintech, cybersecurity, retail, and e-commerce.
The Mastercard Gateway technology, paired with a global network of over 200 acquirers, provides more than 500,000 merchants with access to ongoing innovation and over 110 million acceptance locations. In 2023, Mastercard Gateway processed over 950 million payments in Saudi Arabia across all payment methods, contributing to the growth of digital commerce in the market.
As commerce evolves, embracing digitization is crucial for communities to thrive in today’s interconnected and rapidly changing environment. Through investments in resilient financial systems, diverse fintech solutions, local and regional partnerships, and a dedication to promoting financial inclusion, Mastercard is shaping the future of digital payments in Saudi Arabia.
About Mastercard (NYSE: MA)
Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere, by making transactions safe, simple, smart, and accessible. Through secure data and networks, partnerships, and innovation, we help individuals, financial institutions, governments, and businesses realize their greatest potential. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.
