Indians visiting Qatar can now use UPI to make payments by scanning a QR code. This is possible because NPCI International Payments Ltd (NIPL), the global arm of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), has partnered with QNB, the leading bank in the Middle East and Africa, based in Qatar.
With this agreement, UPI payments can be accepted all over Qatar through QNB's merchant network. Indian travellers can use UPI, a payment method they are familiar with, in various places like retail stores, tourist attractions, leisure sites, duty-free shops, and hotels in Qatar.
For merchants in Qatar, accepting UPI payments means they can offer their customers a faster and more convenient checkout process.
In Bhutan, UPI was introduced in collaboration with the Royal Monetary Authority, allowing transactions across the country. Nepal has also adopted UPI, with the Nepal Rastra Bank integrating the system to facilitate cross-border payments and promote financial inclusion.
UPI is being integrated with prominent banks in the UAE, enabling Indian expatriates and tourists to use their UPI apps for payments. Similarly, in Singapore, partnerships with local banks and payment platforms have made UPI a viable transaction option, benefiting the large Indian community and frequent travellers.
In Europe, UPI is gaining traction in countries like France and the UK, where discussions are underway to incorporate the payment system into existing financial frameworks. This will enhance the convenience for Indian tourists and expatriates.
UPI provides a secure payment, eliminating the need for cash or multiple cards. Transactions are quick, allowing hassle-free purchases at retail stores, tourist attractions, hotels, and more.
Its QR code-based system ensures easy use, even in unfamiliar locations. In addition to this, UPI transactions often incur lower fees than traditional currency exchanges and card transactions. Its widespread acceptance in several countries also means travellers can use a familiar payment method, enhancing convenience.