Mastercard and Qlub to Transform GCC Hospitality Payments
Mastercard has entered into a strategic collaboration with Qlub, the Dubai-based fintech redefining hospitality payments, to accelerate the adoption of digital and contactless dining experiences across the Gulf region. The move underscores a growing demand for seamless, technology-led payment solutions that enhance convenience for both restaurants and guests.
As part of the agreement, Mastercard will integrate its payment technologies and platforms into Qlub’s ecosystem while making a minority investment in the company. Mastercard will also process Qlub’s card-not-present transactions through its Mastercard Gateway across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
The partnership builds on Qlub’s participation in Mastercard’s award-winning Start Path program in 2023, highlighting Mastercard’s commitment to scaling digital commerce in fast-growing sectors. Together, the two companies aim to reimagine hospitality payments by pairing Qlub’s QR-based table payment technology with Mastercard’s global infrastructure and operational expertise.
“This collaboration reflects Mastercard’s mission to drive digital transformation and empower businesses with faster, safer, and smarter payment experiences,” said Gina Petersen-Skyrme, Senior Vice President and Country Manager, UAE and Oman, Mastercard.
“By combining innovation with trust, we’re working with Mastercard to make dining payments more rewarding, not just in the GCC but globally,” added John Mady, Managing Director, UAE, Qlub.
Founded in 2021, Qlub has quickly scaled to more than 3,000 restaurants and three million users across 10 countries, powered by nearly 300 employees. The company recently closed a $30 million funding round backed by Shorooq, Cherry Ventures, and strategic investors including e&, Mubadala Investments, and Legend Capital — fueling its ambitions to take smart dining payments worldwide.
At a glance
- Partnership: Mastercard collaborates with Qlub to accelerate digital dining payments.
- Scope: GCC markets including UAE, KSA, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
- Technology: Mastercard Gateway + Qlub’s QR-based table payment solutions.
- Scale: 3,000+ restaurants, 3M+ users, operations in 10 countries.
- Growth: Qlub secures $30M funding to expand its global footprint.
Also read Radisson Hotel Group Elevates Global Hospitality with One Powerful Payment Platform
