eSewa celebrates its 16th anniversary in 2025, marking its pivotal role in transforming Nepal’s digital economy. From a beta launch in 2010, it now offers over 2,000 services, impacting millions of users. Future plans include saving and investment options, enhanced fraud detection, and expanding financial inclusion across Nepal.
Paymob has secured a full operating license from the UAE’s Central Bank, boosting its growth potential in the region. The company plans to expand its team and take advantage of the UAE’s standardized infrastructure and instant payment platform, Aani, to streamline merchant onboarding and offer instant settlement for payments.
SAMA has announced a partnership with Google to integrate Google Wallet into Saudi Arabia’s payment infrastructure, allowing users to securely manage and use their cards for purchases in stores, apps, and online. The initiative, set for launch in 2025, supports the country’s goal of a less-cash dependent society.
Mastercard and foodpanda have partnered to boost digital payment adoption in Pakistan, helping the country transition to a cashless economy. The collaboration introduces exclusive discounts for Mastercard users and launches the Payment Switch initiative to convert cash-on-delivery customers to online payments, accelerating financial inclusion and growth in Pakistan’s digital economy.
Visa has introduced Apple Pay in Egypt, offering a secure and convenient digital payment solution. The service allows Visa cardholders to make contactless payments using iPhones and Apple Watches, and it supports online and in-app transactions. The launch reflects Visa’s commitment to driving digital payment innovation in Egypt.
Nepal has seen a rapid shift towards digital payments, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and improved mobile and internet access. The Payment System Oversight Report 2023/24 highlights significant growth in platforms like connectIPS, QR codes, and mobile banking, as traditional payment methods like cheques and cards show slower adoption.
Al Baraka Islamic Bank has successfully implemented SafeNet, an AI-driven fraud prevention solution, in collaboration with Global Payment Services (GPS). The solution enhances the security of digital payment channels, ensuring real-time transaction analysis and compliance with Central Bank of Bahrain regulations, while boosting customer trust in the bank’s services.
TESS Payments has partnered with Al Fardan Exchange to enhance digital payments in Qatar. This collaboration aims to improve the efficiency and security of financial transactions, aligning with Qatar’s national vision for digital innovation. The partnership combines fintech innovation with Al Fardan’s industry expertise to advance remittance solutions.
Google Pay is set to launch in Pakistan by March 2025, allowing users to link debit and credit cards for contactless payments through the Google Wallet app. The service will initially focus on basic payments, with advanced features like loyalty cards and transport passes to follow in future phases.
The Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) has granted HyperPay a license to offer digital payment services via an electronic wallet in Saudi Arabia. This move supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by promoting cashless transactions and digital transformation in the financial sector, contributing to financial inclusion and innovation.
