# Apple Pay Broadens Accessibility in the UAE and Qatar: An Overview of Jaywan and Himyan
Apple Pay has made notable advancements in the Middle East, particularly within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar. Originally introduced in these regions, Apple has been partnering with local banks to extend its service and improve payment alternatives for users. Recent updates suggest that Apple Pay will soon be accessible to customers of more card networks in both countries, specifically UAE’s Jaywan and Qatar’s Himyan.
## Support for Apple Pay: Jaywan and Himyan
As revealed by *9to5Mac* in the iOS 18.4 beta 3 code, Apple is diligently working with Jaywan and Himyan to incorporate their card systems into Apple Pay. For those who may not be aware, Jaywan and Himyan are local card networks in the UAE and Qatar, respectively, operating in a manner similar to major players like Mastercard and Visa.
### Jaywan’s Dedication to Digital Transactions
Jaywan, the first domestic card initiative in the UAE, has recently affirmed its dedication to improving the nation’s digital payment environment. A report issued by Jaywan highlights its investments aimed at bolstering the UAE’s status as a worldwide center for digital payments. This includes initiatives to support both Google Pay and Apple Pay, underscoring a progressive outlook on payment methods.
### Himyan’s Prospective Inclusion
Although Himyan has yet to make an official statement about its support for Apple Pay, the excitement is growing. As an emerging card network in Qatar, the addition of Himyan to Apple Pay would considerably enhance the payment choices available to users in the area.
### Alliances and Collaborations
To broaden its usability, Jaywan has formed partnerships with several global payment networks, such as Discover, Mastercard, Visa, and UnionPay. These collaborations aim to allow Jaywan cards to be used worldwide, enabling users to conduct smooth transactions both domestically and abroad.
Additionally, Jaywan has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Samsung Gulf Electronics, allowing Jaywan cards to be incorporated into the Samsung Wallet. This development not only improves the card’s usage but also reflects a larger trend of digital wallet integration within the region.
## Advantages of Apple Pay
With Apple Pay, users of iPhones and Apple Watches can seamlessly add their Jaywan and Himyan cards to the Wallet app, facilitating contactless payments in retail. This functionality extends beyond in-store transactions, as Apple Pay is also compatible with online purchases through various apps and websites.
The convenience and security provided by Apple Pay make it an appealing choice for consumers aiming to simplify their payment methods. As the service continues to grow in the UAE and Qatar, users can anticipate a more cohesive and efficient payment experience.
## Future Prospects
As iOS 18.4 is projected to be publicly launched in early April, the integration of Jaywan and Himyan cards into Apple Pay is expected to follow soon after. This growth signifies a major advancement in Apple’s mission to enhance its payment services in the Middle East.
In summary, the collaboration between Apple, Jaywan, and Himyan represents a critical milestone for digital payments in the UAE and Qatar. As these developments progress, consumers can look forward to a more dynamic and versatile payment ecosystem that addresses the needs of a rapidly changing digital environment.
For those interested in staying updated on Apple’s latest offerings, sharing thoughts in the comments can foster a better understanding of the shifting payment landscape.
