If you’re already spending on travel, dining, shopping and entertainment, your payment card could be helping you save more than you realise. The UAE’s home-grown Jaywan card is emerging as more than just a payment method, offering discounts on flights, hotels, ride-hailing, movie tickets and lifestyle experiences that can add up to meaningful savings throughout the year.

As digital payments continue to replace cash around the world, countries are increasingly investing in domestic payment networks that give them greater control over transaction processing while improving efficiency and reducing costs.

Read more-UAE payments: Al Etihad Payments, Mastercard launch first Jaywan co-badged credit card

The UAE has joined that growing list with Jaywan, the country’s first domestic card payment scheme developed by Al Etihad Payments (AEP), a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE).

A payment card designed with the UAE in mind

Named after the Emirati Arabic word for “precious pearl”, Jaywan combines modern payment technology with locally managed infrastructure, supporting the UAE’s broader ambitions to build a stronger digital economy while encouraging greater financial inclusion.

Unlike international payment schemes that process domestic transactions through overseas networks, Jaywan routes local transactions through infrastructure based within the UAE. That not only strengthens the country’s payment ecosystem but can also lower processing costs for banks, merchants and consumers.

“Jaywan represents an important step in strengthening the UAE’s national payment infrastructure while supporting digital transformation and financial inclusion,” according to information released by Al Etihad Payments.

While the scheme is designed primarily for domestic transactions, many Jaywan cards are also co-badged with international payment networks, allowing cardholders to continue making purchases overseas depending on the issuing bank.

More than just everyday banking

For most consumers, the immediate appeal of Jaywan lies in its convenience.

The card supports contactless “tap-to-pay” transactions, EMV chip security, tokenisation, fraud monitoring systems and compatibility with digital wallets, making it suitable for both in-store and online purchases.

Jaywan currently offers debit and prepaid cards, with premium Prestige and Royal debit cards providing additional lifestyle, travel and entertainment privileges.

While the security and payment features mirror what customers expect from modern banking products, it is the growing list of discounts and exclusive offers that is drawing attention from consumers looking to reduce everyday spending.

Here are 10 Jaywan card benefits that could help UAE residents save money throughout the year.

1. Save 7% on flights booked through Trip.com

Travel is often one of the largest household expenses, particularly during school holidays and festive seasons.

Jaywan Prestige and Royal Debit Card holders receive a 7 per cent discount on flight bookings made through Trip.com, helping reduce the cost of both regional and international travel.

For families booking multiple tickets, those savings can quickly become significant.

2. Cut hotel costs with 7 per cent off accommodation

Accommodation can account for a substantial share of any holiday budget.

Jaywan Prestige and Royal cardholders also receive 7 per cent off hotel bookings through Trip.com, making weekend getaways, staycations and overseas holidays more affordable.

New users may also benefit from exclusive welcome offers, adding even more value to their bookings.

3. Air Arabia travellers can unlock exclusive savings

Frequent regional travellers have another incentive.

Jaywan Royal Debit Card holders receive 10 per cent off Air Arabia Ultimate Fare bookings, providing additional savings for those travelling regularly across the Middle East and neighbouring destinations.

For business travellers and frequent flyers, the benefit can help reduce recurring travel costs over time.

4. Relax before your flight with complimentary airport lounge access

Airport lounges are often viewed as a luxury, but for Jaywan Royal Debit Card holders they are included as part of the package.

Eligible customers receive complimentary Priority Pass membership, providing access to airport lounges across hundreds of airports worldwide.

The benefit includes comfortable seating, refreshments, Wi-Fi and business facilities, making long layovers considerably more convenient.

5. Buy one movie ticket and get another free

Entertainment spending can also be reduced through Jaywan’s cinema offers.

Royal cardholders receive Buy One, Get One Free tickets at Reel Cinemas, making family outings and weekend movie nights more affordable.

In addition, cardholders receive 20 per cent off food and beverages purchased at Reel Cinemas, reducing costs beyond the ticket counter.

For regular cinema-goers, the combined savings can quickly add up across multiple visits.

6. Enjoy dining and leisure offers through Jaywan Entertainer

Restaurant bills, attractions and leisure activities represent another area where cardholders can reduce spending.

Jaywan Royal Debit Card holders gain access to the Jaywan Entertainer programme, which includes offers across restaurants, cafés, hotels, theme parks, retail outlets, beauty services and fitness centres.

Many promotions follow the popular Buy One Get One Free format, allowing consumers to enjoy discounts on dining and entertainment across the UAE.

For households that dine out frequently or enjoy weekend activities, these offers could deliver substantial annual savings.

7. Reduce transport and delivery costs with Careem+ offers

Daily commuting and food delivery have become routine expenses for many UAE residents.

Jaywan cardholders may also receive Careem+ benefits, depending on the issuing bank and current promotional campaigns.

These offers can include:

• Discounts on rides
• Reduced food delivery fees
• Grocery delivery promotions
• Exclusive Careem campaigns

For customers who regularly use ride-hailing and delivery services, even small discounts can make a noticeable difference over time.

8. Extra protection for expensive purchases

The value of a payment card isn’t always measured through discounts alone.

Jaywan Royal Debit Cards include Purchase Protection, which may reimburse eligible items that are accidentally damaged or stolen during the coverage period after purchase.

Whether buying electronics, appliances or other higher-value products, the benefit provides an additional layer of financial protection beyond the retailer’s standard policies.

Industry observers say purchase protection has become an increasingly valued feature among premium banking customers seeking greater peace of mind for major purchases.

9. Extended warranty can help avoid repair costs

Repairing electronic devices after a manufacturer’s warranty expires can often be expensive.

Eligible products purchased using a Jaywan Royal Debit Card may receive an extended manufacturer’s warranty, helping cardholders avoid unexpected repair or replacement expenses after the original warranty period ends.

While eligibility depends on product categories and policy terms, the benefit can offer meaningful long-term value, particularly for premium electronics and household appliances.

10. Access to more than 150 lifestyle offers across the UAE

Perhaps the broadest money-saving benefit comes from Jaywan’s expanding portfolio of lifestyle promotions.

According to Al Etihad Payments, eligible cardholders have access to more than 150 offers spanning:

• Shopping
• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Cafés
• Entertainment
• Health and wellness
• Travel services
• Family attractions

These offers are refreshed periodically throughout the year, giving cardholders new opportunities to save across multiple spending categories.

More than discounts: Building a stronger payments ecosystem

While consumer offers may grab headlines, Jaywan’s broader significance extends well beyond cashback and promotions.

The scheme forms part of the UAE’s wider strategy to modernise its payment infrastructure, encourage digital commerce and strengthen payment sovereignty.

By processing domestic transactions locally, Jaywan helps improve operational efficiency while reducing dependence on international payment routing for transactions conducted entirely within the country.

The platform also supports enhanced data governance by keeping payment-related transaction data within the UAE, aligning with national cybersecurity and regulatory objectives.

For merchants, lower processing costs can encourage wider adoption of digital payments while improving overall transaction efficiency.

“Jaywan supports local businesses by improving payment efficiency and reducing transaction processing costs,” Al Etihad Payments has said.

Supporting financial inclusion

Another objective behind the initiative is expanding access to digital financial services.

In addition to debit cards linked directly to bank accounts, Jaywan also offers prepaid cards that allow users to load a fixed balance before spending.

These products are particularly useful for students, travellers, gift cards, budgeting purposes and individuals who do not maintain traditional bank accounts.

Because spending is limited to the available balance, prepaid cards can also help consumers better manage expenses while reducing the risk of overspending.

For online shopping, limiting exposure to only the loaded balance provides an additional level of financial security if card information is compromised.

Looking ahead

Jaywan remains in the early stages of its rollout, but its ambitions extend beyond debit and prepaid cards.

Al Etihad Payments has indicated that future expansion could include credit cards, additional premium tiers, wider merchant partnerships and further digital payment services.

As more UAE banks issue Jaywan cards and more merchants participate in the programme, industry experts expect the scheme to become an increasingly familiar part of everyday payments across the country.

For consumers, however, the immediate takeaway is simpler.

Whether booking flights, reserving hotels, ordering dinner, catching a movie or planning a family day out, using the right payment card can unlock savings that might otherwise be overlooked.

For households already spending on travel, entertainment and everyday services, Jaywan’s growing range of offers demonstrates that paying smarter can sometimes be just as valuable as spending less.

Electric vehicle maker Lucid Group has unveiled a sweeping operational reset aimed at strengthening execution, reducing cash burn and improving customer experience after reporting a 56 per cent increase in second-quarter revenue.

The Nasdaq-listed company generated revenue of $405m during the three months ended June 30, while producing 4,774 vehicles and delivering 3,953 vehicles, representing year-on-year increases of 24 per cent and 19 per cent, respectively.

Lucid ended the quarter with $3bn in total liquidity, saying recently secured financing, combined with ongoing operational measures, is expected to provide sufficient liquidity “well into 2027”.

“Lucid has leading technology, compelling products and deeply committed people, but potential is not performance,” chief executive Silvio Napoli said.

“We are going back to basics, with a clear focus on cash, customers, and culture. We are focused on delivering on our four must win priorities, including our $1.4bn cash flow improvement plan and the advancement of our Robotaxi, AMP-2, and Midsize programmes, which will establish a strong foundation for Lucid’s next chapter.”

As part of its turnaround strategy, Lucid has identified $1.4bn in cash flow improvement opportunities during 2026, including projected savings of approximately $600m to $800m from inventory reductions, around $500m in capital expenditure and roughly $200m in operating expenses.

The operating expense measures include projected savings from the US workforce reduction announced in June, which the company expects will generate approximately $158m in annualised savings.

Lucid said it has deliberately moderated production to better align output with anticipated demand, reduce inventory, preserve cash and improve working capital.

The company is restructuring around three priorities—cash and cost, customer and quality, and culture and team—while simplifying its organisational structure by halving the number of direct reports to the chief executive.

“Silvio and his leadership team are transforming the company, and the Board stands firmly behind their actions,” chairman Turqi Alnowaiser said.

“The actions underway are intended to strengthen the company’s execution, improve the customer experience, and translate Lucid’s technology and product leadership into long-term value for customers and shareholders.”

Lucid’s progress is being closely monitored in the Gulf, with the EV maker playing a central role in Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to develop a domestic automotive industry under Vision 2030.

Saudi factory advances

Backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the company’s majority shareholder, Lucid is expanding manufacturing through its AMP-2 facility in King Abdullah Economic City and has an agreement to supply up to 100,000 electric vehicles to the Saudi government over a decade.

On Wednesday, Lucid reported continued progress at its AMP-2 manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia, which has transitioned from construction to industrialisation.

The company said manufacturing systems covering stamping, body, paint and final assembly are currently being installed and commissioned in preparation for production trials.

AMP-2 remains one of Lucid’s four strategic priorities alongside its robotaxi programme, midsize vehicle programme and $1.4bn cash savings initiative.

The company also said its robotaxi programme with Uber and Nuro has entered active testing and validation, supported by nearly 100 vehicles across the San Francisco Bay Area and Houston, with production-validation Lucid Gravity vehicles already being delivered to Nuro.

Air India Express has expanded its network at Zayed International Airport with direct services to Navi Mumbai, Indore and Lucknow, while flights to Guwahati are scheduled to begin on August 7, Abu Dhabi Airports said.

The additional services expand travel options between the UAE capital and major Indian cities amid growing demand from business and leisure passengers.

The Guwahati route will provide a direct connection between Abu Dhabi and India’s northeastern region.

“The addition of these new routes by Air India Express underlines our commitment to expanding Zayed International Airport’s destination network and serving the growing demand between the UAE and India,” Abu Dhabi Airports chief executive Ahmed Juma Al Shamisi said.

“By deepening our partnership with leading regional carriers, we continue to enhance choice for our passengers while supporting Abu Dhabi’s strategic tourism and economic objectives.”

UAE is one of Air India Express’ most important international markets

Air India Express chairman Nipun Aggarwal said the UAE was one of the airline’s most important international markets, with Abu Dhabi playing a key role in its expansion.

“As we expand our network and induct more aircraft, we are strengthening connectivity, opening new opportunities for travellers, and offering our guests greater choice, convenient schedules, modern aircraft and the warmth of Indian hospitality,” Aggarwal said.

“Every step in our growth is focused on creating greater value for our guests while strengthening Air India Express’ position as India’s leading value airline.”

Air India Express, part of India’s Tata Group, operates more than 500 daily flights connecting 43 domestic and 16 international destinations across South, Southeast and West Asia.

Its fleet comprises more than 100 Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft.

Abu Dhabi Airports operates five commercial airports and handled more than 33 million passengers in 2025.

The United States is close to announcing a temporary agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with Axios reporting that a deal brokered by Oman could be unveiled as early as Wednesday.

The proposed 60-day framework is aimed at restoring commercial shipping through the strategic waterway while creating space for broader negotiations between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security.

According to Axios, the deal would include:

• A 60-day reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping, with the possibility of an extension.
• A commitment to maintain the ceasefire between the US and Iran during the period.
• Renewed negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme and wider regional security issues.
• Oman acting as the lead mediator, with support from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
• An operational framework under discussion that could see Iran oversee inbound shipping and Oman manage outbound vessel movements, according to the Associated Press.

The Strait of Hormuz handles around one-fifth of global oil consumption and is the main export route for crude oil and liquefied natural gas from Gulf producers, making any reopening significant for global energy markets and shipping.

While President Donald Trump said talks with Iran were progressing well, officials cautioned that the agreement has not yet been finalised and could still change before any formal announcement.

The Reserve Bank of India kept its policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25 per cent on Wednesday, as it awaits data to judge if higher oil prices are stoking inflationary pressures across Asia’s third largest economy.

The decision to hold rates sets India apart from a growing band of regional peers including Indonesia, Philippines and others that have responded to the inflationary fallout from higher energy prices and war-driven currency volatility by tightening policy. Instead, the RBI announced a series of steps at the previous meeting to boost capital inflows and support the rupee.

Read more-India central bank holds rates as oil shock raises risks

The central bank’s six-member rate panel, which includes three external members, voted unanimously to keep rates on hold. The rate-setting panel also retained the policy stance at “neutral”.

An overwhelming majority of 68 out of 72 economists polled by Reuters had forecast that the RBI will stand pat on its benchmark interest rates.

Headline inflation has moved above target mainly because of higher fuel prices, while broader price pressures remain in check, RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra said while announcing the policy.

Signalling no rush to act until there is greater clarity on inflation, Malhotra reaffirmed the RBI’s “resolute” commitment to its inflation target.

India’s benchmark 10-year bond yield was flat at 6.7765 per cent, while the rupee weakened marginally to 95.03. The benchmark Nifty 50 index was flat, while BSE Sensex was 0.5 per cent higher.

Inflation in check; growth resilient

The central bank cut its forecast for average inflation in the current financial year to 5 per cent from the 5.1 per cent it projected in June. The forecast for core inflation, which excludes food and fuel, was cut more steeply to 4.3 per cent from 4.7 per cent earlier.

Retail inflation in India rose above the central bank’s medium term target of 4 per cent for the time in 17 months in June but is projected to stay within its tolerance band of 2 per cent-6 per cent in the current fiscal year, giving policymakers breathing room on rates.

The central bank also raised its GDP growth estimate marginally to 6.7 per cent for the year from 6.6 per cent in June.

High frequency economic indicators have projected a mixed picture with the purchasing managers index slipping to a five-year low but demand for credit growing at a much stronger pace of near 18 per cent.

Domestic demand remains resilient but a weak monsoon, trade and geopolitical uncertainties could emerge as risks to growth, Malhotra said.