The Central Bank of the UAE has inaugurated Jaywan, the UAE’s first national card scheme, and announced the official start of nationwide issuance to consumers through banks, licensed financial institutions and exchange houses. The move puts a domestic card scheme into the market for everyday payments and cash access, with cards usable across point-of-sale terminals, e-commerce platforms, automated teller machines and digital wallets. Jaywan cards will support contactless payments, online purchases and cash withdrawals, and can also be used for domestic and international payment transactions in line with applicable rules and regulations. The scheme covers all card categories and will be accompanied by rewards and offers arranged with partners in travel, retail, hospitality and lifestyle. Rollout is being phased, with banks and licensed financial institutions commencing issuance over the coming months.
Central Bank of the UAE2026-07-20
Central Bank of the UAE starts nationwide issuance of Jaywan, the country’s first national card scheme
The Central Bank of the UAE has launched nationwide issuance of Jaywan, the UAE’s first national card scheme, making it available to consumers through banks, licensed financial institutions and exchange houses. The cards can be used at merchants, online, at ATMs and in digital wallets, including for domestic and international transactions subject to applicable rules. Issuance will be phased over the coming months.