Introduction: The Rising Demand for Digital Payments in Dubai
Dubai has firmly established itself as the fintech nucleus of the Middle East, driven by rapid digitalization, government initiatives like the Dubai Smart City program, and a thriving startup ecosystem. With eCommerce expected to exceed $10 billion in sales by 2025, the importance of reliable and scalable payment gateways is undeniable.
Whether you run a local online store, a high-risk venture, or a multinational SaaS platform, choosing the right payment gateway can make or break your business. This article dives into the top 12 payment gateways in Dubai that combine compliance, innovation, and merchant-centric features.
1. Network International
Why It Stands Out: As one of the oldest and most reputable UAE-based acquirers, Network International offers full-stack solutions, including POS and online payment gateways.
- Local Currency Support: AED and multiple currencies
- Integration: APIs, SDKs, eCommerce plugins
- Industries Served: Retail, hospitality, government, education
- Pros: Local settlement, high reliability, strong KYC support
- Cons: May not support high-risk industries
2. PayTabs
Why It Stands Out: A regional leader known for its focus on MENA and South Asian markets, PayTabs offers fast onboarding and diverse payment options.
- Currencies: Over 160 currencies
- Features: One-click checkout, subscription billing, mobile SDK
- Industries Served: eCommerce, services, education, logistics
- Pros: Regional expertise, multi-lingual dashboard
- Cons: Support can be delayed during peak hours
3. Telr
Why It Stands Out: Designed for SMEs and startups in Dubai, Telr provides multilingual dashboards, installment features, and fraud prevention tools.
- Settlement: AED and USD options
- Security: PCI DSS, 3D Secure, real-time fraud tools
- Industries Served: Retail, SaaS, education
- Pros: Low barrier to entry, social commerce support
- Cons: Fee structure may be complex for beginners
4. Checkout.com
Why It Stands Out: A global unicorn with a strong Dubai presence, Checkout.com provides enterprise-grade APIs and support for complex merchant needs.
- Features: Global acquiring, tokenization, fraud suite, APMs
- Currencies: Multi-currency settlements
- Industries Served: Airlines, SaaS, marketplaces, crypto
- Pros: Enterprise-level scalability
- Cons: Minimum volume requirements
5. Stripe (UAE)
Why It Stands Out: Stripe officially launched in the UAE, catering especially to tech startups and SaaS businesses looking for developer-friendly tools.
- Integration: Extensive API, plugins for Shopify, WooCommerce
- Currencies: Supports multiple international currencies
- Industries Served: Tech, subscriptions, marketplaces
- Pros: Transparent pricing, modern UX
- Cons: Limited support for high-risk industries
6. CCAvenue (UAE)
Why It Stands Out: A well-known player from India with strong UAE operations, CCAvenue offers highly customizable solutions.
- Currencies: AED, INR, USD, and others
- Features: Multilingual checkout, EMI options, retry logic
- Industries Served: Retail, events, education
- Pros: Highly customizable
- Cons: UI may seem dated
7. Amazon Payment Services (formerly Payfort)
Why It Stands Out: Backed by Amazon, this gateway focuses on risk mitigation, recurring billing, and regional compatibility.
- Strengths: Fraud management, KYC streamlining
- Industries Served: E-commerce, travel, finance
- Pros: Strong brand trust, excellent analytics
- Cons: Approval process is strict
8. PayPal (UAE Compliant)
Why It Stands Out: Despite limitations in the region, PayPal remains a key gateway for international transactions.
- Best For: Cross-border eCommerce, freelancers
- Currencies: Global currencies supported
- Pros: Customer trust, buyer/seller protection
- Cons: Higher transaction fees, not ideal for local settlement
9. Payoneer
Why It Stands Out: A preferred option for international sellers, Payoneer supports global payments, freelancing, and withdrawals to UAE bank accounts.
- Strengths: Global receiving accounts, currency conversions
- Industries: Freelancing, digital products, B2B
- Pros: Easy onboarding, mass payouts
- Cons: Not a true payment gateway; more of a PSP
10. HyperPay
Why It Stands Out: A rising player with advanced fraud prevention and regional expansion across MENA.
- Industries: Retail, airlines, telecom
- Features: Risk engine, tokenization, reporting tools
- Pros: Strong fraud suite, Arabic dashboard
- Cons: Less known among newer SMEs
11. Mamo Pay
Why It Stands Out: A fintech startup gaining traction in UAE for offering business wallets and seamless payment links.
- Best For: Freelancers, small eCommerce
- Strengths: QR payments, no-code setup
- Pros: Fast onboarding, mobile-first
- Cons: Still expanding features
12. Foloosi
Why It Stands Out: A local UAE fintech offering digital invoicing, POS, and gateway support for online businesses.
- Industries: Retail, small services
- Features: Easy UI, UPI-like interface, real-time reports
- Pros: Strong mobile features
- Cons: Limited to UAE merchants
Regulatory Landscape in Dubai
Dubai operates under strict financial oversight through the UAE Central Bank and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). Payment gateways must be PCI DSS compliant and, in many cases, require local licensing or partnerships with local banks.
Digital onboarding and eKYC are becoming mainstream, and newer fintech-friendly free zones like DIFC and ADGM have made it easier for international firms to operate.
How to Choose the Right Gateway in Dubai
- Nature of Business: High-risk vs low-risk
- Settlement Currency Needs
- International vs Local Focus
- Developer Support and APIs
- Fraud Protection Features
Future Outlook
With the UAE continuing to evolve as a fintech innovation hub, the payment gateway ecosystem in Dubai is expected to see increased competition, better support for crypto, and seamless integration with banking-as-a-service (BaaS) platforms. As open banking gains traction and instant payments become more common, gateways offering modular, compliance-driven, and developer-friendly features will lead the race
