In a move aligned with Qatar’s Third Financial Sector Strategy and the National Development Strategy 2024–2030, the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has announced the official launch of Apple Pay for Himyan cardholders, offering customers a secure and convenient way to make digital payments across the country.
The introduction of Apple Pay enables users to make contactless payments in-store, in apps, and online using iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac devices. The service, available as of Sunday, aims to strengthen Qatar’s digital financial ecosystem and promote seamless, tech-driven consumer experiences.
According to QCB, users can make in-store payments by double-clicking the side button on their Apple device, authenticating via Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode, and holding the device near a payment terminal. Each transaction is safeguarded by a one-time dynamic security code, ensuring customer data remains private and protected.
“Security and privacy are at the core of Apple Pay,” QCB stated. “When customers use a Himyan card with Apple Pay, their actual card numbers are never stored on the device or on Apple servers. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is encrypted and stored in the Secure Element of the device.”
Apple Pay is accepted at a wide range of retailers in Qatar, including grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, cafés, and other outlets that support contactless payments. Users can also enjoy faster checkouts when shopping online or through mobile apps, without having to repeatedly input personal or payment information.
Speaking on the rollout, His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed bin Khalid bin Ahmed Al-Thani, Deputy Governor of the Qatar Central Bank, emphasized QCB’s commitment to adopting innovative digital solutions across the financial sector.
“At Qatar Central Bank, one of our foremost priorities is investing in transformative technologies that yield tangible benefits and drive greater efficiency within the national financial ecosystem,” he said. “We’re excited to bring Apple Pay to our customers in Qatar as part of our mission to build a world-class financial infrastructure.”
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance financial inclusion and support the evolution of Qatar’s banking landscape. By integrating cutting-edge payment technologies, QCB aims to create a more connected, secure, and accessible financial environment for all residents.
Himyan cardholders can activate Apple Pay by opening the Wallet app on their iPhone, tapping the “+” symbol, and following the steps to add their card. Once added, users retain all the benefits and rewards associated with their Himyan cards.
