Indian travellers can now enjoy a 10% discount on eligible purchases at Dubai Duty Free when making payments through UPI, according to an official statement from [NPCI](/topic/upi) International Payments (NIPL). This initiative aims to enhance the shopping experience for Indian visitors in Dubai while promoting the use of digital payments across the UAE.
UPI Integration at Dubai Duty Free
The newly introduced offer allows Indian travellers to receive a discount of up to 100 UAE Dirhams (AED 100) on their purchases at Dubai Duty Free, one of the leading airport retailers globally. This initiative is expected to significantly boost the adoption of UPI payments in the UAE, facilitating a seamless shopping experience for Indian nationals.
Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, emphasized the importance of Indian travellers to their customer base. "The integration of UPI provides Indian travellers with a familiar, secure, and seamless way to pay while enjoying the benefits of this exclusive offer," he stated. This sentiment reflects the growing trend of digital payments and the need for convenient payment solutions for international travellers.
How to Activate UPI for International Use
To take advantage of this offer, Indian travellers must first activate the UPI International or UPI Global service through their UPI-enabled application linked to an eligible bank account. This activation process is crucial as it allows users to make payments directly from their Indian bank accounts at participating merchants that accept UPI.
Once activated, travellers can enjoy the benefits of this discount while shopping at Dubai Duty Free, which offers a wide range of products including fashion, beauty, electronics, confectionery, beverages, watches, and jewellery at both Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport.
Strengthening Digital Payment Connectivity
The collaboration between NPCI International Payments and Dubai Duty Free is part of a broader strategy to enhance digital payment connectivity between India and the UAE. Network International has been appointed as the acquiring partner, enabling UPI acceptance across participating payment terminals at Dubai Duty Free. Murat Cagri Suzer, Group CEO of Network International, noted that this partnership aims to strengthen the payments ecosystem for Indian travellers in the UAE by providing them with a familiar and secure payment option.
This initiative not only benefits Indian travellers but also aligns with the UAE's vision to become a global hub for digital payments. The integration of UPI into Dubai Duty Free's payment systems is a significant step towards achieving this goal, making it easier for international visitors to engage in retail activities without the hassle of currency exchange or unfamiliar payment methods.
Expected Impact on Retail and Tourism
The introduction of UPI payments at Dubai Duty Free is expected to have a positive impact on both retail and tourism sectors in the UAE. As Indian tourists represent a significant portion of the customer base, this initiative is likely to encourage more visitors to shop at Dubai Duty Free, knowing they can benefit from a discount while using a payment method they are familiar with.
The convenience of UPI payments could also lead to increased spending among Indian travellers, as they may feel more comfortable making larger purchases when using a payment method they trust. This could result in a win-win situation for both the retailers and the tourists, enhancing the overall shopping experience.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Digital Payment Adoption
In conclusion, the 10% discount on UPI payments at Dubai Duty Free marks a significant advancement in the integration of digital payment solutions for Indian travellers. By providing a familiar and secure payment method, this initiative not only enhances the shopping experience but also promotes the adoption of digital payments in the UAE. As the world continues to move towards cashless transactions, such collaborations will play a crucial role in shaping the future of retail and tourism.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Discount | 10% on eligible purchases |
| Offer Cap | AED 100 |
| Payment Method | UPI |
| Activation Requirement | UPI International/Global service |
| Retailer | Dubai Duty Free |
| Key Partner | Network International |





