Global payment leader Mastercard has collaborated with Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) to launch a Digital City Partnership. It complements the emirate’s Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) goals to accelerate its economic growth.
The DET and Mastercard Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was made official on 22nd June 2023. It was signed by J.K. Khalil, Cluster General Manager of MENA East Mastercard, and Hadi Badri – the CEO of Dubai Economic Development Corporation at DET.
The Digital City Partnership comes at an opportune time as Dubai focuses on its Dubai Economic Agenda 2033 goals, said Badri. “Through this strategic alliance, we are partnering with a global connector of digital payments to further strengthen Dubai’s position as the world’s most connected city.”
Dubai will be able to harness Mastercard’s payment networks and digital commerce technology, making it a global first on a city level. Mastercard’s network and technology provide access to over a hundred million merchants worldwide and in numerous sectors.
“Mastercard has a proven track record of supporting governments in digitising public services, empowering small businesses, fostering talent and fuelling tourism. We are delighted to enter the region’s first Digital City partnership with the Department of Economy and Tourism as we harness the power of our advanced technology to help translate Dubai’s ambitious vision to reality,” remarked Khalil.
The partnership will also pave the way for the implementation and development of a multi-year Digital Partnership Programme in Dubai. Some key aspects are trade and export growth, SME development and innovation, attracting and developing talent, and boosting tourism growth.
Moreover, the Digital City Partnership will propel Dubai’s future with the advantage of digital technology and the best global practices. Alongside its strategic location and seamless connectivity, its role as a premier business, investment, and tourism destination is stronger than ever.
