Etihad Airways has started accepting Jaywan, the UAE’s national domestic card scheme, for flight bookings on its website, making it the first airline to offer the payment option.
Jaywan payments
UAE-based customers can now select Jaywan when paying for flights through Etihad’s website. The option is available across the airline’s full route network.
The move allows Jaywan cardholders to use the UAE’s domestic payment scheme for flight bookings and follows the launch of Jaywan in July 2026. The scheme is operated by Al Etihad Payments, a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE.
Royal card benefits
Etihad said Jaywan Royal cardholders who are also Etihad Guest members will soon receive exclusive discounts on Comfort and Deluxe fares, along with priority access benefits.
Mark Potter, Managing Director Etihad Guest at Etihad Airways, said: “Being the first airline to accept Jaywan payments is a proud moment reflecting our commitment to deliver greater choice and convenience for our guests, while rewarding loyal travellers. This is the first step in our partnership with Al Etihad Payments, and a demonstration of how closely Etihad is aligned with the UAE’s strategic growth and integration across sectors. UAE-based guests can now book with us using a payment method built specifically for them, and it’s a move towards a broader offering that will soon reward our Etihad Guest members holding Jaywan Royal cards with exclusive fare discounts and priority benefits.”
UAE payments
Andrea Cianchetti, Chief Products Officer at Al Etihad Payments, said: “A strong cardholder proposition is an important part of how Jaywan delivers value as the UAE’s domestic card scheme. Our partnership with Etihad Airways adds direct value as Jaywan cardholders can use their cards to book flights, and Jaywan Royal cardholders gain exclusive fare discounts and priority benefits. Everyday payment utility combined with benefits that matter to customers in the UAE is what the Jaywan proposition is built around.”
The partnership builds on an existing relationship between Etihad and Al Etihad Payments. The two organisations signed a memorandum of understanding in October last year.
Jaywan cards are being rolled out nationwide by banks and licensed financial institutions following the scheme’s July launch.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
