NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) in partnership with Qatar National Bank has enabled the acceptance of QR code-based Unified Payments Interface (UPI) across Qatar via point-of-sale (POS) terminals for merchants acquired by QNB and powered by NETSTARS’ payment solution. This move will allow Indian travelers to carry out UPI payments seamlessly at major tourist attractions and Qatar Duty Free outlets, which is the first merchant to go live on UPI.
Indians are the second largest group of international visitors to Qatar*. This partnership will help them to make real-time transactions across the country, limiting the need to carry cash and currency exchange hassle. The acceptance of UPI in Qatar promotes interoperability and expands UPI's global reach.
Moreover, it is expected to benefit Qatar's retail and tourism sectors as UPI acceptance will increase transaction volumes of merchants acquired by QNB. This will further help them in scaling their business while offering convenience to customers.
Mr. Yousef Mahmoud Al-Neama, Group Chief Business Officer, QNB, said “We are excited to introduce UPI in Qatar and proud to be at the forefront of innovating the payment landscape. This milestone not only enhances the convenience for Indian travelers but also brings significant benefits to the Qatari market by promoting cashless transactions, boosting retail and tourist sectors, and strengthening interoperability in the payments ecosystem. Importantly, it will also enable local merchants to thrive by attracting more customers and providing them with seamless digital payment options.”
Mr. Thabet Musleh, Chief Retail & Hospitality Officer, Qatar Airways Group said, “At Qatar Duty Free, we are committed to enhancing convenience and accessibility for travellers. As the first entity in Qatar to enable UPI as a payment option, we are proud to offer Indian travellers a seamless, secure, and cashless transaction experience at our outlets. This partnership with NPCI International and Qatar National Bank reflects our dedication to embracing innovative payment solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our diverse customer base. By integrating UPI, we aim to elevate the retail experience at Hamad International Airport, ensuring a smoother journey for millions of visitors.”
The partnership strengthens India's digital payment footprint while offering a seamless and secure payment experience for Indian travelers in Qatar.
Tsuyoshi Ri, Representative Director and CEO of NETSTARS Co., Ltd., said, “We are honoured to be part of this strategic partnership and milestone, enabling UPI for the first time in Qatar together with NPCI International, Qatar Airways Group and Qatar National Bank. This aligns with our mission to expand seamless and secure payment experiences globally. We are proud to contribute to this launch in Qatar, which will empower local merchants in Qatar to accept digital payments conveniently and efficiently from millions of international travellers.”