Market Trends of MENA Fintech Industry
Rising Digital & Cashless Payments is Driving the Growth of The Market
Across the Middle East, digital payments, cross-border instant payments, BPL (buy-now-later) services, and digital banking reign the market. The MENA region witnesses a surge in digital payments, bolstered by government backing and a push towards a digital economy. Over 85% of fintech firms in the MENA region focus on payment and transfer services.
The entry of global payment giants like Gpay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay fueled a surge in the adoption of digital wallets in MENA. Notably, the United Arab Emirates has emerged as a frontrunner in the global shift towards cashless societies. Data suggests that 70% of SMEs in the UAE have already embraced or are poised to adopt cashless systems by 2024.
Recent data from Visa underscores the UAE's pioneering stance in adopting a cashless society. A notable 52% of UAE consumers, outpacing the global average of 41%, are either already embracing or planning to transition to a cashless lifestyle by 2024. Within the e-commerce realm, credit cards take center stage, dominating the landscape and accounting for the majority of transactions. Debit cards, on the other hand, make up 11% of the market, as highlighted by FIS Global Payments Wallet. Additionally, online payments, including mobile wallets, constitute a significant 24% of the total transaction value, solidifying its position as the UAE's second most popular payment method.
UAE is Dominating the Fintech Market
Investment in the UAE's fintech sector has surged by an impressive 92% in 2024, with projections indicating a doubling of transaction value by 2028. This surge is underpinned by multiple factors, including the UAE's strategic geographic location, a rising appetite for fintech solutions among locals, and its allure for foreign direct investment (FDI).
The UAE government is actively incentivizing green finTech initiatives through tax benefits. This move aims to foster innovation, bolster financial growth, and underscore the nation's commitment to environmental sustainability. The UAE, particularly, is emerging as a favored destination for financial service providers, including cryptocurrency exchanges and FX/CFD brokers. With one of the world's swiftest-growing economies, the UAE's government has embraced policies that champion innovation and attract investments. These measures span tax incentives for foreign investors and targeted ad campaigns highlighting the nation's investment potential and affordable living.
