The MENA Fintech Association has announced a strategic collaboration with QiCard, Iraq’s leading electronic payment provider, to further drive the adoption of secure digital financial services across the region. This partnership highlights the ongoing transformation of Iraq’s financial landscape, as the country shifts toward a more accessible and efficient digital economy powered by advanced mobile infrastructure.
Driving Financial Inclusion Through Biometric Innovation
Since its inception, QiCard has played a pivotal role in modernizing Iraq’s financial sector by introducing the region’s first biometric card. This technology was specifically developed to address the logistical challenges faced by state employees, pensioners, and social security beneficiaries. By integrating biometric security with a seamless digital interface, the company has enabled millions of Iraqis to transition from cash-based systems to a secure digital environment.
The platform allows users to manage their finances, execute real-time payments, and access a suite of government and private services directly from their smartphones. This consolidated approach to financial management is a cornerstone of Iraq’s strategy to enhance financial inclusion and transparency within the public and private sectors.
Expanding the Ecosystem Beyond Payments
QiCard is currently evolving from a specialized payment processor into a comprehensive fintech group. The company’s latest generation of services emphasizes flexibility, offering value-added solutions for both consumers and merchants. This expansion includes “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) options and specialized travel cards, ensuring that Iraqi users have access to the same diverse financial tools found in global markets.
As a principal issuer and acquirer for international networks like Mastercard and Visa, QiCard’s infrastructure supports over 10 million cardholders. Its growing ecosystem now includes mobile Point-of-Sale (mPOS) solutions and QR-based “Scan and Pay” technologies, which are essential for integrating small and medium enterprises (SMEs) into the formal digital economy.
About QiCard
QiCard, also known as International Smart Card (ISC), is the leading electronic payment system in Iraq. Founded in 2007 through a strategic partnership between the private sector and the state-owned Al-Rafidain Bank, the company has over 15 years of experience in the fintech industry. As the largest card issuer in the country, QiCard is dedicated to providing safe, socially responsible, and cashless solutions for government, corporate, and retail markets, operating under the mission of creating “An Easier Life” through digital innovation.
Source: MENA Fintech Association
