QNB Group and Mastercard have taken a major step to expand digital payment services in Syria. Mastercard has granted QNB a formal license to extend issuing and acquiring services in the country. This move allows QNB to offer Mastercard payment solutions to individuals and businesses. These services will work locally and internationally.Strengthening Digital Payments InfrastructureAdvancing Financial Inclusion Through TechnologyA Strategic Milestone for QNB GroupMastercard’s Commitment to SyriaShaping the Future of Payments The expansion follows a memorandum of understanding signed between Mastercard and the Central Bank of Syria in September. The agreement supports the modernization of Syria’s digital payments infrastructure. Together, these efforts aim to improve access to secure and seamless financial services. Strengthening Digital Payments Infrastructure The new license enables QNB to support a wider range of digital payment solutions. These solutions will help modernize daily transactions and reduce reliance on cash. The initiative focuses on building a reliable and future ready payments ecosystem. Key outcomes of this expansion include: Wider acceptance of digital payments Secure transactions for consumers and merchants Improved access to international payment networks The move supports national efforts to modernize financial services while meeting regulatory and compliance standards. Advancing Financial Inclusion Through Technology QNB and Mastercard share a clear goal. They want to increase access to modern banking services. Digital payments play a key role in financial inclusion. They help individuals and businesses participate in the formal economy. This collaboration aims to: Enable more citizens to access payment cards Support small and medium sized businesses Improve transaction speed and reliability Technology acts as the foundation. It creates new opportunities and builds trust in digital finance. A Strategic Milestone for QNB Group For QNB Group, the expansion reflects a strong commitment to digital innovation. The bank continues to lead transformation across its international network. Syria represents a high potential market with growing demand for modern financial tools. QNB focuses on: Enhancing the digital banking experience Delivering resilient and scalable solutions Supporting long term economic growth The partnership aligns with QNB’s broader strategy to offer tailored services powered by innovation. Mastercard’s Commitment to Syria Mastercard views Syria as a market undergoing meaningful change. The company continues to invest early and responsibly. It works closely with local banks to expand access to secure payments. Adam Jones, Division President for West Arabia at Mastercard, highlighted the importance of empowering partner banks. He emphasized the goal of enabling millions of citizens to access modern financial services. He also noted that Mastercard supports sustainable economic progress with full respect for regulations. Shaping the Future of Payments Together, QNB and Mastercard aim to contribute to the evolution of Syria’s payments landscape. Their collaboration supports digital banking growth and economic resilience. It also creates a foundation for future innovation. This expansion marks progress toward a more connected financial system. It signals confidence in technology as a driver of inclusion and growth. As digital adoption increases, consumers and businesses gain tools to transact with ease and security.