Department of Economic Development in Dubai and Visa launch ‘Consumer Rights and Card Payment Benefits' Campaign

Until 19 March, visitors to Mall of the Emirates will be able to test their knowledge about card benefits, security and responsible money management

Dubai, UAE – 15 March 2016: The Department of Economic Development, Dubai (DED), and long-standing partner Visa (NYSE: V), a global payments technology company, have launched their ‘Consumer Rights and Card Payment Benefits' campaign designed exclusively for cardholders in the UAE.

Running until 19 March, the campaign includes a stand at Mall of the Emirates where cardholders can test their knowledge of electronic payments and learn about consumer rights, card benefits – such as convenience, reliability and security – and responsible money habits. Visitors to the DED and Visa stand can also learn about Visa's multi-layered security strategy to minimize fraud against cardholders, merchants and financial institutions. The initiative also features regular radio spots throughout the campaign on Noor Dubai radio station.

The ‘Consumer Rights and Card Payment Benefits' campaign is part of Visa's commitment to provide cardholders in the country with a secure and convenient means to pay, and to work with government in the UAE to set robust security standards. It is also in line with Visa's efforts as a socially conscious organization to promote financial literacy by educating individuals in the UAE on how to spend, save and budget responsibly.

His Excellency Ali Ibrahim, Deputy Director General of DED, said the ‘Consumer Rights and Card Payment Benefits Campaign' signifies DED's greater focus on protecting consumers as well as on working closely with businesses in Dubai. “Payment solutions are witnessing varied innovations and consumer awareness on card benefits will add to stability and sustainability in Dubai's flagship retail sector. Smart use of payment cards can bring added value to shopping in Dubai and improve customer convenience thus enhancing the emirate's reputation as a retail destination.”

“Visa is pleased to partner with DED on yet another strategic public-private sector initiative to educate cardholders in the UAE on the benefits of cards, empower them with principles of responsible money management, and to support the UAE's drive to introduce innovative cashless solutions for the benefit of its residents,” said Ihab Ayoub, Visa's General Manager for Middle East and North Africa. “At Visa, providing cardholders a secure and a convenient way to pay remains our highest priority. We continue to work with key clients and partners to develop robust security standards and have advanced risk management processes to enable your cardholders to transact with their Visa cards anytime, anywhere.”

Ayoub added: “Visa believes the most important financial tool is knowledge. That is why for over a decade Visa has been developing financial literacy programs that teach individuals how to spend, save and budget responsibly. In 2009, Visa pledged to reach 20 million people through financial literacy education by 2013—a goal surpassed one year ahead of schedule. More than 40 million people have been reached as of January 2016.”

Mohammed Lootah, Executive Director of Commercial Compliance & Consumer Protection (CCCP) sector in DED, commented: “Initiatives to improve and update consumer awareness should be part of any retail environment that aspires to be among the best and the most dynamic. The ‘Consumer Rights and Card Payment Benefits Campaign' is a valuable addition to DED's ongoing consumer protection initiatives.”
DED's main goal has been to realize economic development in the emirate, regulate economic and commercial affairs, and protect the rights of consumers and businesses in the best interests of the UAE.

Visa delivers solutions for businesses and governments globally and continues to be a trusted partner to the government in the UAE. Innovation and security are a top priority for Visa across the region and the partnership with DED will facilitate awareness towards the necessity of a frictionless, safe and convenient payment environment for consumers and merchants in the UAE.