June 20, 2025
Dubai, UAE: A major shift is underway in the UAE’s payment landscape. Al Etihad Payments, under the UAE Central Bank, is set to roll out the much-anticipated Jaywan domestic debit card—a move poised to reshape everyday transactions across the country.
According to Jan Pilbauer, CEO of Al Etihad Payments, Jaywan is designed to meet the high expectations of UAE consumers, who are accustomed to feature-rich cards and seamless digital experiences. The card aims to become a go-to option for daily spending, online shopping, and ATM withdrawals, with added perks to match.
“People in the UAE have been so used to expecting more from their cards. That’s why Jaywan will come with generous incentives and various card variants, allowing banks and card issuers to tailor features according to customer needs,” said Pilbauer.
What Kind of Benefits Will Jaywan Offer?
Jaywan won’t be just another debit card—it’s set to offer value at every swipe. Cardholders can expect:
- Buy One Get One Free offers
- Cinema and entertainment discounts
- Insurance cover options
- Access to airport lounges
- Exclusive reward programs
This approach ensures Jaywan remains competitive with international brands, while being deeply rooted in the needs of the UAE market.
“Each time you use Jaywan, we want it to feel rewarding,” added Pilbauer.
When Will Jaywan Be Available?
Though technically already live, the full-scale rollout is expected to accelerate by mid-2025. Some users have already received their cards, and integration testing with POS merchants, ecommerce platforms, and ATM networks is in its final stages.
By the end of this year and throughout 2026, every debit card issued in the UAE will either be Jaywan or a co-branded version, as mandated by the Central Bank.
Who Will Get the Jaywan Card?
If you have a bank account or receive your salary through an exchange house, a Jaywan card is on the way. Banks across the UAE will begin issuing them to individual account holders as part of the national push toward financial digitization and independence.
Can Jaywan Be Used Internationally?
Yes. Jaywan is being developed in collaboration with global networks like Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and Union Pay, making it fully compatible for overseas transactions and travel use.
What About Digital Wallets and Online Shopping?
Al Etihad Payments is actively working with tech giants like Google, Apple, and Samsung to ensure Jaywan is integrated into major digital wallets and mobile operating systems. This process includes tokenization and compatibility testing to align with international standards and ensure smooth transactions across apps and devices.
“We’re ensuring platforms like Google Pay and Apple Pay can understand and interact with Jaywan—it’s about long-term integration,” Pilbauer noted.
Final Thoughts
The Jaywan card isn’t just a product—it’s a symbol of the UAE’s growing independence in the digital finance space. With a focus on convenience, rewards, and wide usability, Jaywan is well on its way to becoming the everyday card for millions across the Emirates.
Stay tuned as the UAE redefines payments—one card at a time.
