RAKBANK and Network International complete a UAE digital payments partnership to enhance merchant services, boost fintech growth, and support SMEs.
RAKBANK and Network International have completed their merchant acquiring partnership in the UAE, following regulatory approval from the Central Bank of the UAE.
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The milestone formalises a strategic agreement first announced in November 2025 and marks a deeper push by both companies into the UAE’s rapidly expanding digital payments ecosystem.
Under the agreement, Network International will deploy its payment infrastructure and solutions across RAKBANK’s merchant base, serving both SMEs and large enterprises.
The objective is clear: enhance RAKBANK’s acquiring capabilities in a market where digital payments have become essential. Across the UAE, contactless transactions, e-commerce, and digital wallets are now standard, pushing banks to continuously upgrade their offerings.
For merchants, this translates into more reliable payment processing, improved settlement efficiency, and access to modern payment technologies that support business growth.
The partnership also strengthens Network International’s footprint in Ras Al Khaimah, an emirate gaining momentum as a commercial and investment hub.
As merchant demand for digital commerce tools rises in the region, the collaboration positions both companies to capture new growth opportunities. However, competition in the UAE’s payments space remains intense, requiring ongoing innovation beyond infrastructure scale.
Both companies have emphasised continuity, with plans to support existing merchants through a smooth transition to the new system.
For SMEs in particular, stability in payment systems is critical. Even minor disruptions in settlements can impact cash flow and daily operations, making reliability a key focus of the rollout.
This partnership reflects a wider ambition to strengthen payment infrastructure and accelerate innovation across the UAE.
Founded in 1976, RAKBANK, formally known as the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah, is majority-owned by the Ras Al Khaimah government and listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. The bank operates 21 branches nationwide and offers retail, wholesale, and Islamic banking services through RAKIslamic.
By combining RAKBANK’s strong liquidity position with Network International’s payment technology, the collaboration aims to deliver scalable, future-ready solutions for businesses across the Emirates.
Why RAKBANK and Network International Partnership Matters to MENA
Digital payments infrastructure is becoming a core pillar of economic growth across MENA. Partnerships like this accelerate financial inclusion, support SMEs, and strengthen the region’s transition to a cashless, digital-first economy.
