In a strategic move to enhance payment accessibility for its East African customers, flydubai has announced a partnership with Network International (Network), a leading enabler of digital commerce in the Middle East and Africa. The collaboration will enable customers in Kenya and Uganda to make payments using mobile money platforms such as Mpesa, Airtel Money, and MTN Mobile Money. This integration is expected to revolutionize the booking process for flydubai travelers, offering greater convenience and catering to the region’s growing preference for digital payment solutions.
A New Era of Seamless Payments in East Africa
Flydubai customers booking flights through the airline’s official website, flydubai.com, or the mobile app can now use mobile money options. This marks a significant step in enhancing payment flexibility beyond traditional card payments. The airline plans to expand this offering to other African markets, including Tanzania, as part of its broader strategy to provide localized and convenient solutions for its growing customer base.
With East Africa being a global leader in mobile money adoption, this partnership reflects flydubai’s commitment to addressing regional needs while aligning with global trends in digital payments. By leveraging Network International’s cutting-edge payment solutions, the airline aims to streamline transactions and offer a secure, efficient, and user-friendly payment experience.
Statements from the Key Stakeholders
Sudhir Sreedharan, Divisional Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations (UAE, GCC, Africa, and the Indian Subcontinent), flydubai, commented:
“We are pleased to have partnered with Network International to reaffirm our longstanding commitment to investing in the latest technologies and innovative solutions. Since launching our operations to Entebbe in 2014 and Mombasa in 2024, we have witnessed growing demand from these markets, reinforcing the need for more accessible and seamless payment solutions for our customers. Through this partnership, we look forward to continuing to provide an enhanced travel experience for our customers, both on the ground and in the air.”
Judy Waruiru, Regional Managing Director for East Africa Acquiring at Network International, stated:
“This partnership marks a significant milestone in enhancing customer experience. With East Africa being a leader in mobile money adoption, integrating this payment option into an international airline underscores the power of strategic collaborations in advancing localized digital payments. We are bridging global travel with familiar, seamless payment solutions, improving the customer experience and setting a precedent for expanding digital solutions across the region.”
Expanding Digital Payment Solutions Across Africa
Network International has played a pivotal role in transforming digital payment systems across the MEA region, including more than 40 African markets. By offering acquiring and processing services and an array of value-added solutions, Network International is enabling businesses and institutions to adopt secure and scalable payment technologies.
For flydubai, the introduction of mobile money payment options is just one part of its broader vision to strengthen its presence in Africa. With a network spanning more than 130 destinations across 55 countries and a young fleet of 88 Being 737 aircraft, the airline is well-positioned to cater to the increasing demand for international travel in the region.
Why This Partnership Matters
The integration of mobile money with flydubai’s payment systems is a testament to the airline’s adaptability and focus on customer-centric innovation. Here are the key benefits of this collaboration:
- Enhanced Accessibility:
- Mobile money platforms like Mpesa, Airtel Money, and MTN Mobile Money are widely used in East Africa. By integrating these platforms, flydubai ensures that more customers can access its services without being restricted by limited payment options.
- Improved Customer Experience:
- Offering mobile money as a payment method aligns with the preferences of East African travelers, providing a seamless, familiar, and convenient experience.
- Localized Solutions for Global Connectivity:
- Flydubai’s partnership with Network International bridges the gap between global travel and regional payment systems, demonstrating the airline’s dedication to localized solutions.
- Support for Digital Commerce Growth:
- This initiative contributes to the growth of digital commerce in Africa by encouraging the adoption of secure, efficient payment technologies.
The Future of Payments in Travel
Flydubai’s focus on expanding mobile money options across its African destinations is indicative of the broader shift toward digital payments in the travel industry. The airline’s plans to introduce this payment option to markets like Tanzania signify its proactive approach to addressing evolving customer needs.
Flydubai’s Growth and Vision for Africa
Since its inaugural flights to Entebbe in 2014, flydubai has steadily expanded its footprint in Africa. Its recent launch of services to Mombasa in 2024 highlights the airline’s commitment to connecting East Africa with the rest of the world. The adoption of mobile money payments is a strategic move to solidify its position as a leading airline in the region.
Network International’s Role in Transforming Payments
Network International continues to be a key player in the MEA region’s digital payment landscape. Its comprehensive suite of services, including payment processing and value-added solutions, has empowered businesses across 50 countries to embrace digital transformation. The partnership with flydubai is another milestone in its mission to enable seamless commerce across diverse markets.
Conclusion
Flydubai’s integration of mobile money payments, in partnership with Network International, sets a new standard for digital payment solutions in the airline industry. This initiative not only enhances accessibility for East African travelers but also reinforces the airline’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric services.
As the airline expands its network and services, this collaboration serves as a blueprint for future initiatives aimed at bridging global travel with localized payment solutions. With East Africa leading the charge in mobile money adoption, flydubai’s move underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in driving digital transformation and enhancing the travel experience.
By aligning with regional preferences and leveraging advanced payment technologies, flydubai and Network International are paving the way for a more inclusive and seamless future in global air travel.