Airwallex Accelerates with UAE & Saudi Approvals
Hey Payments Fanatic,
Airwallex just planted its flag in the Middle East, and it’s not just dipping a toe in.
The Aussie-born FinTech has secured in-principle approval from the Central Bank of the UAE for stored value and retail payment services, and also set up its first entity in Saudi Arabia under the Ministry of Investment.
Why it matters? With Vision 2030 (KSA) and Vision 2031 (UAE) pushing for digital-first economies, this is prime territory for Airwallex’s playbook of multi-currency accounts, global transfers, payment acceptance, and corporate cards.
To sweeten the local checkout, Airwallex even teamed up with Tabby (the BNPL leader in the region) to boost basket sizes and conversions for merchants.
Backed by a fresh $300m Series F and partnerships with Arsenal and McLaren Racing, Airwallex is going full throttle: 60+ licences worldwide and now building out offices and staff in the Gulf.
The goal? Becoming truly “default global” while staying hyper-local.
Have a great weekend, and I'll be back in your inbox on Monday!
Cheers,
INSIGHTS
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NEWS
🌍 Airwallex accelerates market entry in the Middle East as part of a broader global growth strategy across APAC, EMEA, and the Americas. In the UAE, it has secured In-Principle Approval for key payment licenses, enabling services like multi-currency accounts, global transfers, and corporate cards. Meanwhile, Airwallex has also established a new entity in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030 and supporting the region’s digital economy.
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