Dubai Duty Free strikes partnership to enhance payment options for Indian shoppers

UAE. In a move aimed at enhancing the shopping experience for Indian travellers, Dubai Duty Free has introduced QR-based Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments via point-of-sale (POS) terminals from payment solutions provider Magnati and its strategic partner NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL).

Magnati and NIPL recently struck an alliance to enable more merchants to provide UPI as a payment method to Indian travellers in the UAE.

The partners noted that UPI is recognised among the world’s most successful real-time payment systems, processing over 15 billion transactions in November 2024 in India.

The mobile-first payment solution has become a dominant form of digital payments globally offering simplicity, safety and reliability for merchant payment transactions.

The roll-out with Dubai Duty Free should pave the way for future expansion across key merchant categories including retail, hospitality, transport and supermarkets among others, said Magnati.

Magnati MD Institutional Payments Salim Awan said: “With the NPCI collaboration, Magnati has expanded its alternative payment channels network for Dubai Duty Free as this partnership aims to bolster digital payments, facilitate cross border payments and provide a seamless payment experience catering to the Indian travellers and NRIs. This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to innovative digital solutions and create value through a globally connected ecosystem.”

NPCI International Chief Executive Officer Ritesh Shukla said: “The partnership with Magnati is a strategic step towards expanding UPI acceptance in the UAE. It offers Indian travellers a seamless and familiar payment experience at premier destinations like Dubai Duty Free. This collaboration aligns with our vision of providing Indians with a global digital payments acceptance network and enhancing their payment experience abroad. Furthermore, it paves the way for broader economic and cultural connections between India and the UAE.”

Dubai Duty Free Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi said: “We are delighted to partner with Magnati to provide another seamless payment solution for our customers. With India as our top source market in 2024, we are positive that this will be a welcome convenience for our Indian customers seeking a cashless and contactless payment option.”