Emirates has signed a strategic agreement with Al Etihad Payments to integrate Jaywan, the UAE's national card scheme, into its booking channels. Starting 16 September 2026, passengers will be able to use Jaywan cards to purchase flights through Emirates' website, mobile app, and retail stores, marking a significant step in the carrier's push toward cashless transactions.
The agreement was formalized by Abdulla Al Olama, Emirates' Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, and Andrea Cianchetti, Chief Commercial Officer at Al Etihad Payments. The collaboration aims to strengthen the UAE's homegrown payments ecosystem while giving Jaywan cardholders access to exclusive fares across all cabin classes and most fare types.
Discounts and booking window
Jaywan cardholders will enjoy discounts on bookings made until 31 August 2027, with travel valid through 29 February 2028. The offer applies to both online and in-store purchases, providing flexibility for leisure and corporate travelers alike.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates' Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the partnership's role in expanding payment options for customers. "Jaywan is now added as a homegrown option that adds further choice and simplicity when booking," he said. "This aligns with our commitment to supporting the UAE's digital payments infrastructure and enhancing the overall customer experience."
Dr Tariq Al Hawi, Chief Operating Officer at Al Etihad Payments, emphasized the value proposition for cardholders. "Jaywan brings tangible benefits to users, both online and in-store, by offering a secure and efficient payment method," he noted. "We are proud to partner with Emirates to bring this convenience to a global audience."
Strategic implications for travel payments
The move is part of Emirates' broader strategy to promote cashless transactions. Earlier this year, the airline collaborated with Dubai Finance to streamline payment processes and launched Cryptocom Pay for digital currency transactions. By adding Jaywan, Emirates now supports a diverse range of payment methods, catering to the UAE's increasingly digital-savvy population.
Jaywan, introduced by Al Etihad Payments, is designed to localize card transactions and reduce reliance on international card networks. It is widely accepted across retail, healthcare, and transportation sectors, reinforcing the UAE's financial sovereignty. For travel professionals, this development signals a growing trend toward regional payment schemes in the Gulf, which could influence how airlines and travel agencies handle payments in the future.
Industry observers note that the integration of local payment systems is becoming a competitive differentiator. As AI agents and NDC reshape travel tech, payment flexibility is emerging as a key factor in customer satisfaction. Emirates' adoption of Jaywan may prompt other Gulf carriers to explore similar partnerships, potentially reshaping the region's travel payment landscape.
For travel agents and corporate buyers, the new payment option could simplify transactions for clients based in the UAE. The discounts offered through Jaywan may also influence booking decisions, particularly for price-sensitive travelers. Emirates' expanded premium cabins and strong winter demand, as noted in recent reports, suggest the airline is keen to maintain momentum in a competitive market.
The partnership also aligns with the UAE's broader digital transformation goals. By supporting a national card scheme, Emirates is contributing to the country's efforts to build a robust financial infrastructure. This move is expected to enhance the travel experience for Jaywan cardholders, offering them a seamless and rewarding booking process.
As the travel industry continues to evolve, payment innovation remains a critical area. Emirates' collaboration with Al Etihad Payments underscores the importance of adapting to local market needs while maintaining a global standard of service. With the rollout set for September 2026, the industry will be watching to see how this initiative influences payment trends across the region.
