UAE businesses that want to accept online payments need a payment gateway and merchant account. Here is a complete guide to UAE payment processing in 2025.
UAE Payment Gateway Options
Telr: UAE-based payment gateway. Accepts: Visa, Mastercard, Amex, local UAE payment methods (KNET, Mada, Apple Pay, Google Pay). Pricing: 2.09% per transaction (standard rate for UAE businesses). Supports: 120+ currencies. UAE free zone company accepted (does not require mainland). Best for: SMEs and e-commerce businesses wanting a UAE-based payment processor.
Checkout.com: International payment gateway with strong UAE presence. Accepts: all major cards + 20+ local payment methods. Pricing: custom (typically 1.5-2.5% depending on volume). Supports 185 currencies. Strong API and developer tools. Best for: tech companies and larger e-commerce players wanting advanced payment orchestration.
PayTabs: GCC-based payment gateway. Strong in Saudi Arabia and UAE. Accepts: all major cards and GCC local methods. Pricing: 2.5% + AED 1 per transaction. Best for: businesses selling across GCC markets who want one payment gateway for the region.
UAE Merchant Account Requirements
To obtain a UAE merchant account (ability to accept card payments): UAE bank merchant account (from your UAE business bank), UAE trade licence (must be valid), and website terms and conditions (required for online merchants). Website review: UAE payment gateways review your website before approval. Requirements: clear product/service description, clear pricing and delivery terms, refund/return policy, and contact information. Prohibited businesses: gambling, adult content, unlicensed financial services. These cannot obtain UAE merchant accounts.