UAE-based travel fintech Sinder has announced the launch of its staged beta, rolling out an AED account and a Mastercard Platinum debit card tailored for UAE residents who frequently travel abroad. The new service aims to bring clarity and control to international spending.
Quick Facts
- Beta launched for eligible UAE residents.
- Offers AED account with a local IBAN.
- Backed by team with experience from Revolut and Tamara.
Tackling Hidden International Spending Fees
For many UAE residents, spending money abroad comes with a layer of complexity, often clouded by opaque exchange rates, card fees, and confusing rewards programs. Sinder aims to solve this by pairing a local AED account and IBAN with a Mastercard Platinum debit card, managed entirely through its mobile app.
The platform offers a Founder Card with no monthly subscription fee and provides clear information on foreign-exchange pricing, plan limits, and any weekend charges. This transparency is central to its mission.
“UAE residents travel frequently, but the cost of spending abroad is often obscured by exchange rates, card fees and complex rewards structures,” said Chris Hughes, Founder and CEO of Sinder. “Sinder is designed to make that experience easier to understand.”
Early Traction Signals Strong Demand
Prior to this public beta, Sinder ran a controlled production pilot which generated significant organic interest without any paid marketing. The initial results show promising engagement.
As of 16 July 2026, the pilot saw more than 150 accounts created, with over 50 customers activated and 27 funding their accounts. The first eight transacting users completed 58 card payments, totaling over AED 5,300. The total available customer balance on the platform reached approximately AED 31,900.
“The initial organic demand and repeat card usage give us a strong signal, and the beta will help us refine the experience before a broader rollout,” Hughes added.
Building on Fintech Expertise and Key Partnerships
Sinder was co-founded in Dubai by Chris Hughes and Artem Kuchumov, who have assembled a team with product, payments, and operational experience from successful fintechs like Revolut and Tamara.
The startup’s infrastructure is supported by key industry players. The account and card are issued through Ruya Community Islamic Bank, with card processing managed by Network International. The card operates on the Mastercard network, ensuring global acceptance for UAE-based travelers.
The beta program will expand in phases as the company refines its onboarding, funding processes, card delivery, and customer support. Eligible UAE residents can request access through the Sinder app on iOS and Android.
About Sinder
Sinder is a UAE-based financial technology company focused on providing transparent and manageable international spending solutions for travelers. Its product combines an AED bank account with a Mastercard debit card, all controlled through a mobile application designed to simplify foreign transactions.
Source: Fintech News Middle East
