NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), in partnership with Qatar National Bank (QNB), has enabled Unified Payments Interface (UPI) acceptance across Qatar, marking a major milestone in the global expansion of India’s digital payments ecosystem.
The rollout, powered by NETSTARS’ payment solution, allows Indian travelers to use UPI via QR code at point-of-sale (POS) terminals, with Qatar Duty Free becoming the first merchant to go live.
The initiative will make travel more seamless for Indians, who are the second-largest group of international visitors to Qatar. By enabling real-time digital transactions at leading retail outlets and tourist destinations, the partnership reduces the need for cash and currency exchange hassles while boosting interoperability.
“This partnership with QNB is a step towards our vision of building a truly interoperable global payment network,” said Ritesh Shukla, CEO, NIPL.
“It will help millions of Indian travelers make seamless, secure transactions abroad and reduce their dependence on cash,” he added.
Yousef Mahmoud Al-Neama, Group Chief Business Officer, QNB, noted that UPI adoption would not only benefit travelers but also drive growth for Qatari merchants by promoting cashless transactions and supporting the retail and tourism sectors.
Thabet Musleh, Chief Retail & Hospitality Officer, Qatar Airways Group, said, “As the first entity in Qatar to enable UPI, Qatar Duty Free is proud to offer Indian travelers a secure, cashless shopping experience at Hamad International Airport. This reflects our commitment to innovative payment solutions that elevate the retail journey.”
The initiative strengthens India’s digital payment footprint abroad while positioning Qatar as a forward-looking market embracing cross-border interoperability.
Tsuyoshi Ri, CEO, NETSTARS, emphasised the company’s pride in contributing to this milestone, saying the move aligns with its mission of expanding secure, seamless payments worldwide.
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