Digital payments are widely used by UAE small and medium-sized enterprises, but far fewer businesses connect those payments to broader management tools, according to Visa’s Pay and Get Paid 2026 report.
The survey found that 96% of respondents accept and make digital payments, while only 39% use integrated platforms covering payments and business management.
Administrative work remains a challenge. Some surveyed SMEs reported difficulties tracking unpaid invoices (30%), organising payroll records (29%) and preparing financial reports (28%).
Demand for more connected tools appears strong, with 82% saying an all-in-one payment and business solution appeals to them. Cost, cited by 17%, doubts about the need for such tools among smaller businesses (12%) and limited awareness (11%) were among the barriers to adoption.
Among SMEs already using integrated solutions, 91% said they were satisfied and 85% reported improved efficiency, including less time and effort spent managing their businesses.
Visa’s UAE country manager Mario Makary said integrated platforms could give financial institutions a broader view of SME activity and potentially support more tailored services. Emirates NBD’s Hamad Mohamed Zayed said simpler administration could help SMEs focus on customers, strengthen operations and plan for growth.
Source: Fast Company ME
