John Brown
Member
Alipay+ to launch cross-border mobile payments in Saudi Arabia, as the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) partners with Ant International to enable QR-code payments between Alipay+ global wallets and Saudi Arabia's national payments scheme, mada. The rollout, expected in 2026, aims to empower local merchants with secure, international payment acceptance.What's happening & Why It Matters
Local merchants in Saudi Arabia, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), will be able to accept cross-border QR payments from international Alipay+ partners. This initiative is part of a broader push under Saudi Vision 2030 to strengthen digital payments infrastructure, promote tourism, and increase inclusivity in financial services.The collaboration builds on Ant International's track record: connecting more than 1.7 billion user accounts across over 36 partner wallets, and working with over 100 million merchants in 70+ markets globally.
Key Benefits and Opportunities
- For merchants: Enhanced access to international customers and tourists, providing more ways to receive payments and increasing potential revenues.
- Payment experience: QR code payments are generally fast, low friction, and mobile-friendly, which can improve customer satisfaction.
- Economic alignment: Supports government ambition to move away from cash, meet non-cash transaction targets, and boost Saudi Arabia's standing as a fintech and tourism hub.
What to Watch For
- Rollout timeline & merchant readiness: Although the agreement is in place, implementation (eg POS upgrades, merchant onboarding) may be gradual.
- Regulatory compliance & security: Ensuring that cross-border payments maintain appropriate security, anti-fraud controls, and consumer protection.
- Interoperability & usability: The ease with which merchants can integrate QR payment solutions with their existing systems will be crucial.
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