Mastercard and QNB Expand Digital Payments in Syria

Doha, Qatar; January 6, 2026:

Mastercard has announced that QNB Group, the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, has been granted a Mastercard license to expand its issuing and acquiring activities in Syria. This strategic development enables QNB to offer Mastercard payment solutions—accepted both locally and internationally—to individuals, merchants, and businesses across the country.

The initiative follows the memorandum of understanding signed in September between Mastercard and the Central Bank of Syria, aimed at supporting the modernization and resilience of Syria’s digital payments infrastructure. Through this collaboration, both organizations seek to broaden access to secure, seamless, and innovative payment experiences while accelerating the country’s transition toward a more digitally enabled economy.

This milestone reflects the shared commitment of Mastercard and QNB to enhancing the digital banking experience, driving financial inclusion, and unlocking new economic opportunities through technology. By expanding access to electronic payment solutions, the partnership aims to empower consumers, support local businesses, and strengthen the overall payments ecosystem.

The collaboration further underscores QNB Group’s dedication to leading digital transformation across its international footprint and its long-term commitment to fostering sustainable and resilient growth in high-potential markets. As one of the region’s most prominent banking groups, QNB continues to play a pivotal role in advancing financial innovation and expanding access to modern financial services.

Together, Mastercard and QNB aim to contribute meaningfully to the evolution of Syria’s payments landscape by enabling secure digital transactions, promoting transparency, and supporting the country’s broader economic development objectives.

Commenting on the announcement, Adam Jones, Division President, West Arabia, Mastercard, said:
“At Mastercard, we are strengthening our commitment to Syria as early investors in a market undergoing significant transformation. By empowering our partner banks, we are enabling millions of citizens to access modern financial services and helping to build a robust, future-ready payments ecosystem. Our efforts align with the country’s aspirations for sustainable economic progress, while fully adhering to regulatory and compliance standards.”