5 Top Payment Gateways in UAE for Startups and SMEs
December 4, 2025
December 4, 2025
Topic Summary
1. Ziina
A homegrown gateway launched in 2020, perfect for freelancers and SMEs. With payment links, QR and tap-to-pay, Apple and Google Pay support, and AED transfers without an IBAN, Ziina makes local payments simple. Settlements are usually next day, and it’s fully licensed by the UAE Central Bank.
2. Stripe
Brings global reach to the UAE, supporting over 135 currencies and 100+ payment methods. It’s ideal for startups with international ambitions, offering powerful APIs, subscription billing, and built-in fraud detection. With acquiring via Network International, Stripe integrates seamlessly with platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce.
3. TotalPay
Founded in 2022, it focuses on local SMEs and mid-sized businesses. It supports 200+ payment methods, mobile wallets, QR payments, and offers PCI-DSS compliance. Its simple onboarding and performance dashboard make it appealing, though settlement details aren’t widely publicized yet.
4. Network International
A trusted UAE payment processor since 1994. Its N-Genius platform provides 3D Secure, multi-currency pricing, fraud prevention, and strong e-commerce integrations. With next-day settlements and 24/7 support, it remains the go-to choice for businesses of all sizes.
5. PayDo
Caters to cross-border merchants and high-risk industries. Founded in 2017, it supports 24 currencies, offers instant balance views, and integrates 350+ payment methods. With fast settlements and no reserve account needed, it’s a strong option for businesses dealing with global payments.
Getting paid isn’t the finish line, it’s the foundation of your business.
A payment gateway isn’t just a tool to collect cash. It’s how your customers experience checkout — fast, secure, and frictionless. Whether it’s cards, wallets, subscriptions, or Buy Now Pay Later, the right payment solution can reduce drop-offs, increase trust, and turn browsers into buyers.
For startups and SMEs in the UAE, especially in fast-moving sectors like e-commerce, coaching, subscriptions, or digital products, choosing the right payment partner means fewer cart abandonments, better cash flow, and higher customer trust.
And while there are plenty of options, not all are built the same.
If you’re setting up your company with Meydan Free Zone, you’ll get your business license in under 60 minutes, 100% online. Pairing that speed with a smart payment gateway? That’s how you scale faster, smarter, and on your terms.
Top 5 Payment Gateways for Startups and SMEs in the UAE
Choosing the right payment gateway isn’t just about processing transactions, it’s about building trust, increasing conversions, and future-proofing your business. The best solution balances ease of use, strong security, flexible features, and cost efficiency.
Here are five of the most trusted and startup-friendly payment gateways in the UAE to consider:
How to Select the Best Payment Gateway in the UAE
In the UAE’s fast-paced digital economy, the right payment gateway can make all the difference. It not only streamlines checkout but also builds trust, improves conversions, and supports long-term growth.
Here’s what to look for when choosing a gateway that fits your business:
- Reliability & Uptime
When a customer’s ready to pay, even a few seconds of downtime can cost you a sale. Choose a gateway with a proven track record of 24/7 availability and strong infrastructure support. - Multi-Currency Support
Whether you’re selling locally or globally, your gateway should accept and convert multiple currencies smoothly. This ensures a seamless experience for international buyers while keeping your accounting in dirhams. - Diverse Payment Options
Today’s customers expect choice. From credit cards and debit cards to wallets, Apple Pay, and Buy-Now-Pay-Later (BNPL), look for a gateway that supports a wide range of payment methods and integrates easily with your e-commerce platform. - Global Reach
Even if your operations are UAE-based, your customers might not be. Choose a gateway that enables cross-border payments and supports international settlements. - Strong Security & Compliance
Your gateway must be PCI-DSS compliant and offer advanced encryption, tokenisation, and fraud detection. Meydan Free Zone only connects founders with verified partners that meet international security standards.
Tip: Meydan Free Zone’s business consultants can guide you on selecting the gateway best suited for your product, audience, and platform.
Challenges Faced by Startups and SMEs While Choosing a Payment Gateway in the UAE
While payment gateways unlock growth, the decision process comes with a few hurdles — especially for early-stage founders:
- Security Concerns
Cybersecurity is non-negotiable, but building your own defenses can be costly. That’s why Meydan Free Zone connects you with trusted payment gateway partners that offer built-in protection without draining your resources. - Trust in Online Payments
Some customers are still wary of paying online. That’s why it’s crucial to offer a secure, familiar, and professional checkout experience backed by known payment brands. - High Processing Fees
Gateway charges can eat into margins. Meydan Free Zone works with providers tailored to the needs of startups and SMEs, helping you minimise costs while staying compliant.
Simplify Payments and Start Smarter With Meydan Free Zone
Your payment gateway is more than a tool, it’s a critical part of your customer journey.
A seamless checkout experience builds trust, supports conversions, and unlocks revenue from global markets. And with Meydan Free Zone, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
We connect you with reliable, startup-friendly banking and payment gateway partners — so you can accept payments securely, scale confidently, and stay focused on growing your business.
FAQS
1. What are the top payment gateway options available with Meydan Free Zone?
Meydan Free Zone partners with leading providers like Paydo, Ziina, TotalPay, Stripe, Comfi, and Network International — offering secure, scalable solutions for startups, SMEs, and digital-first businesses.
2. Can I accept international payments with these gateways?
Yes. Most of these gateways — including Stripe, TotalPay, and Paydo — support multi-currency acceptance, allowing you to receive payments from customers across the globe in their local currency.
3. Which payment gateways are best for e-commerce and subscriptions?
Stripe, Comfi, and TotalPay are ideal for e-commerce, recurring billing, and subscription models, offering seamless integration with platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and custom-built stores.
4. Are these gateways compliant with UAE regulations?
Yes. All listed payment gateway partners work within UAE regulatory frameworks and provide PCI-DSS compliant infrastructure, ensuring your transactions meet international security standards.
5. Can I integrate these gateways with my online store or website?
Absolutely. These partners offer plug-and-play integrations, developer APIs, and plugins that work with most popular e-commerce platforms and CMSs.
6. Which gateway is best for peer-to-peer or mobile payments?
Ziina is known for its user-friendly peer-to-peer payment features, designed with UAE-based mobile-first users in mind. It’s ideal for freelancers, creators, or solopreneurs offering local services.
7. How do I choose the right payment gateway for my business?
Your ideal gateway depends on your business model, transaction volume, customer location, and preferred payment methods. Meydan Free Zone’s setup consultants help match you with the right partner based on your goals.
8. Does Meydan Free Zone help with onboarding and payment setup?
Yes. Once your license is issued, Meydan Free Zone can connect you directly with the right gateway partner for onboarding support, platform integration, and documentation — so you can start collecting payments faster.
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