Jaywan enables secure domestic and international payments while supporting the UAE’s digital payments ecosystem
Abu Dhabi, UAE: The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has officially launched Jaywan, the country’s first national payment card scheme, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s efforts to strengthen its digital payments ecosystem and promote financial innovation.
The rollout is being carried out in phases, with banks, licensed financial institutions, and exchange houses beginning to issue Jaywan cards to customers across the country.
The Jaywan payment card supports contactless payments, online shopping, cash withdrawals, and digital wallet transactions. It is accepted at point-of-sale (POS) terminals, ATMs, and e-commerce platforms throughout the UAE, while also enabling international transactions in line with applicable regulations.
To enhance customer value, Jaywan cardholders will also benefit from a rewards programme developed in collaboration with partners across the travel, retail, hospitality, and lifestyle sectors.
The launch was announced during an event in Abu Dhabi attended by CBUAE Governor Khaled Mohamed Balama, members of the Board of Directors of Al Etihad Payments, and senior executives from banks and payment companies.
Commenting on the launch, H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court and Chairman of the Central Bank of the UAE, said:
“The launch reflects the country’s commitment to building a more efficient, resilient and competitive financial sector while supporting innovation, financial inclusion and digital transformation.”
The introduction of Jaywan represents an important step in advancing the UAE’s national payment infrastructure, supporting secure digital transactions, increasing financial inclusion, and reinforcing the country’s vision of becoming a leading hub for financial technology and digital payments.





