Market share of credit cards in total value of e-commerce and point of sale (POS) payments in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) in 2025, by country

Physical credit cards were used more for e-commerce than for in-store payments in selected countries in Africa and the Middle East in 2025. However, in the United Arab Emirates, the use of credit cards for in-store payments was slightly higher, accounting for ** percent of transactions. This popularity is surprising when compared to the relatively low penetration rates for credit cards within countries in the region. Religious concerns initially made it difficult for credit cards to find acceptance in Africa and the Middle East. Banks tried to change this, both by creating Shariah-compliant cards and offering rewards programs or discounts. Islamic finance is especially large in Saudi Arabia, owning nearly ************************************ of Islamic banking assets.