Residents of the UAE can now experience a new way of paying, where an AI agent searches, discovers, and completes transactions on their behalf, often without direct human intervention at the point of purchase. Mastercard has introduced its AI-powered payment solution, Agent Pay, in the UAE, marking its first international rollout outside the United States. Launched as a pilot in partnership with Majid Al Futtaim and fintech firm Dataiera, the platform aims to transform digital commerce, enabling users to explore services, book experiences, and make transactions seamlessly through an AI agent
What is Mastercard Agent Pay
Agent Pay is Mastercard’s AI-powered payment solution that allows an AI agent to search, discover, and complete transactions on behalf of a user, often without direct human involvement at the point of purchase. It enables seamless, secure, and autonomous digital payments, bringing the concept of agentic commerce to everyday life.
AI meets payments: The Agent Pay launch
Mastercard’s Agent Pay is designed to integrate artificial intelligence into everyday financial transactions, enabling cardholders to search, discover, and pay for services using an AI agent. During the pilot phase, one of the first practical applications will include booking theatre tickets at VOX Cinemas seamlessly through the AI system.The launch event was attended by key leaders:
- Omar Sultan Al Olama, UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications
- Michael Miebach, CEO of Mastercard
- Ahmed Galal Ismail, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Holding
This collaboration represents a convergence of advanced technology and retail innovation, highlighting the UAE’s position as a global hub for AI-driven solutions.
UAE’s Vision: AI driven digital transformation
Omar Al Olama emphasized the UAE’s role as a global leader in adopting and deploying advanced technologies. Under the guidance of the nation’s leadership, the UAE has become a destination for initiatives that enhance well-being, strengthen competitiveness, and elevate the country’s status in global AI applications.Key points from Al Olama’s remarks include:
- The UAE has set global benchmarks in AI adoption, simplifying everyday life and advancing digital interactions.
- AI-enabled payment solutions, such as Mastercard’s Agent Pay, represent a significant milestone for the nation’s digital economy.
- These innovations are expected to improve efficiency, reliability, and quality in digital financial interactions.
Industry Perspectives
From Mastercard’s perspective, Dimitrios Dosis, President for Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa, highlighted the importance of trust and transparency in AI-driven commerce:“As AI becomes a trusted companion in people’s digital lives, payments must evolve to match its intelligence with integrity. Mastercard Agent Pay ensures that agentic commerce is built on transparency, consent, and security, empowering consumers and businesses to engage confidently in this new era of commerce.”Ahmed Galal Ismail of Majid Al Futtaim Holding added that AI is a transformative force for retail and lifestyle experiences. He emphasized that the collaboration with Mastercard aims to:
- Explore the coexistence of intelligence and integrity in digital transactions
- Build systems that prioritize trust, transparency, and consumer confidence
- Redefine how people shop, pay, and engage in an increasingly connected world
Ismail stressed that the initiative is not only about convenience, but also about establishing a framework for responsible innovation in commerce.
Looking ahead: The future of agentic commerce in UAE
The launch of Agent Pay represents a step forward in AI-driven digital payments, positioning the UAE as a pioneer in agentic commerce. With Mastercard, Majid Al Futtaim, and Dataiera leading the way, the solution is expected to reshape how consumers interact with technology and financial services, offering a seamless, secure, and intelligent shopping experience.As AI continues to integrate into daily life, solutions like Agent Pay demonstrate how technology, trust, and innovation can converge to redefine modern commerce and strengthen the UAE’s role as a global digital economy leader.
