India's UPI global expansion continues; NPCI enables UPI acceptance in Qatar with Qatar National Bank

NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), in collaboration with Qatar National Bank (QNB), has launched QR code–based UPI acceptance across Qatar.

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The integration, powered by NETSTARS’ payment solution, enables Indian travelers to make UPI payments seamlessly at point-of-sale terminals operated by QNB merchants. Qatar Duty Free has become the first merchant to go live on UPI, with wider acceptance expected across tourist attractions and retail outlets.

Indians represent the second-largest group of international visitors to Qatar. The expansion is significant as it reduces the need for them to carry cash or engage in currency exchange.

The partnership also strengthens interoperability in cross-border payments while extending UPI’s global footprint. For Qatar, it is expected to enhance the retail and tourism sectors by boosting transaction volumes and supporting local businesses in attracting international customers.

With this expansion, UPI acceptance is now operational in Bhutan, France, Mauritius, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates, further boosting its global footprint.

"We aim to enhance the acceptance of UPI globally and create a truly interoperable global payment network. The partnership with QNB is a step towards this journey. It will help millions of Indian travellers make seamless, secure digital transactions and reduce their dependence on cash. As UPI makes its mark, we are focussed on driving interoperability and making cross-border payment experiences hassle-free for users," said Ritesh Shukla, MD and CEO, NPCI International.

Yousef Mahmoud Al-Neama, Group Chief Business Officer, QNB, said “We are excited to introduce UPI in Qatar and proud to be at the forefront of innovating the payment landscape. This milestone not only enhances the convenience for Indian travelers but also brings significant benefits to the Qatari market by promoting cashless transactions, boosting retail and tourist sectors, and strengthening interoperability in the payments ecosystem. Importantly, it will also enable local merchants to thrive by attracting more customers and providing them with seamless digital payment options.”

“We are honoured to be part of this strategic partnership and milestone, enabling UPI for the first time in Qatar together with NPCI International, Qatar Airways Group and Qatar National Bank," said Tsuyoshi Ri, Representative Director and CEO of NETSTARS Co., Ltd.