Tap to Pay Comes to iPhone Users in the UAE

Apple has officially launched Tap to Pay on iPhone in the UAE, allowing merchants to easily and securely accept in-person, contactless payments using only their iPhones. This service enables businesses of any size to accept payments from contactless credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, and other digital wallets without requiring any additional hardware or payment terminals. By collaborating with payment platforms, app developers, and payment networks, Apple is streamlining the payment process, making it easier than ever for merchants to offer seamless transactions directly through their iPhone.

The system works with iPhones running the latest iOS version, specifically the iPhone Xs or later. Merchants can accept payments by prompting customers to hold their contactless payment methods—such as a debit or credit card, Apple Pay on iPhone, or Apple Watch—near the merchant’s iPhone. The payment is completed securely using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. This eliminates the need for additional payment hardware, allowing merchants to accept payments anywhere they do business, whether in a physical store, at an event, or on-the-go.

Apple has partnered with leading payment platforms and app developers to integrate Tap to Pay on iPhone into their iOS apps. This collaboration enables merchants to easily activate the capability without needing to install complex systems or additional equipment. As of the launch, payment platforms such as Adyen, Magnati, and Network International are offering this service to businesses in the UAE. These platforms will allow businesses to begin accepting payments seamlessly through their existing systems. Tap to Pay on iPhone supports a variety of payment networks, including major players like American Express, Mastercard, and Visa.

The security of customer data is a top priority for Apple, and Tap to Pay on iPhone is designed to provide the same level of privacy as Apple Pay. All transactions are encrypted and processed via the Secure Element, ensuring that payment information remains private and secure. Apple does not have access to transaction details, ensuring that both the merchant and customer can confidently engage in secure transactions without the risk of data exposure.

In addition, the integration of Tap to Pay on iPhone with Network International’s N-Genius One app provides merchants with an enhanced, smooth checkout experience. Jamal Al Nassai, Group Managing Director for Merchant Services at Network International, MENA, noted that this solution is a cost-effective way for businesses to simplify payment acceptance. By using only an iPhone and Network’s N-Genius One app, merchants can start accepting secure payments instantly, enhancing their customer service and operational efficiency.

To begin using Tap to Pay on iPhone, both new and existing merchants partnering with Network International can easily sign up for the service. Once registered, merchants only need to install the N-Genius One iOS app on an iPhone XS or later model, which is running the latest version of iOS. The setup process is simple, requiring no additional hardware or payment terminals, making it an ideal solution for businesses looking to streamline their payment processes.

Once the app is installed, merchants can immediately start accepting contactless payments, providing a smooth and secure payment experience for their customers. This solution is designed to be both innovative and accessible, catering to businesses of all sizes and enabling them to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving payments landscape.

In addition to offering a seamless checkout experience, Tap to Pay on iPhone provides businesses in the UAE with the flexibility to accept payments on the go or from any location. This capability is particularly beneficial for businesses that operate in dynamic environments or have mobile sales teams, as they no longer need to rely on traditional payment terminals or additional infrastructure.

The collaboration between Apple, Network International, and other payment platforms makes it easier for businesses to integrate this solution into their existing operations, enabling them to enhance customer experiences while maintaining a high level of security. By adopting this cutting-edge payment technology, businesses can meet the growing demand for contactless payments, providing customers with a fast and convenient way to pay while ensuring that all transactions are secure, private, and processed with the latest encryption standards.

By leveraging Tap to Pay on iPhone, UAE businesses can embrace the future of payment acceptance, offering a modern, efficient, and cost-effective solution that meets the needs of both merchants and customers in today’s digital-first economy.