Mastercard has launched Agent Pay in the UAE, marking the technology’s first use outside the United States and positioning the country as a testing ground for next-generation AI-driven payments.
The pilot is being rolled out in collaboration with Majid Al Futtaim and fintech firm Dataiera. Once live, the system will allow cardholders to use an AI agent to search, discover, and complete transactions. This includes activities such as booking theatre tickets at VOX Cinemas through a seamless conversational interface.
The launch event brought together key industry and government leaders including Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications; Mastercard CEO Michael Miebach; and Ahmed Galal Ismail, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Holding.
Al Olama highlighted the UAE’s position as a global hub for advanced technology, noting that the country continues to set new benchmarks in deploying artificial intelligence to enhance daily life and support economic growth. He said the introduction of AI-powered payment tools opens new opportunities for the UAE’s digital economy.
Dimitrios Dosis, President for Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa at Mastercard, said the evolution of payment systems must keep pace with the rise of AI. He emphasised that Agent Pay is built on transparency, consent, and security to ensure trust as digital interactions advance.
Majid Al Futtaim CEO Ahmed Galal Ismail described AI as a transformative force shaping the future of retail and human interaction. He said the partnership aims to develop systems that prioritise trust and responsible innovation while improving the way consumers shop and pay in an increasingly connected world.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
