In a strategic move to enhance its foothold in East Africa, flydubai has partnered with Network International to introduce mobile money payment options for its customers in Kenya and Uganda. This collaboration enables travelers to book flights and access airline services using popular mobile money platforms such as M-Pesa, Airtel Money, and MTN Mobile Money. This initiative aligns with the growing preference for digital payment solutions in the region.
East Africa has emerged as a global leader in mobile money adoption, with platforms like M-Pesa revolutionizing financial transactions. In Kenya, over 90% of the adult population uses mobile money services, facilitating transactions worth billions annually. Uganda has also witnessed significant growth, with mobile money subscriptions surpassing 27 million in recent years. This widespread adoption underscores the region’s readiness for digital payment solutions.
flydubai has been progressively expanding its network in Africa. In January 2024, the airline launched direct flights to Mombasa, becoming the first UAE national carrier to do so. This expansion aims to bolster trade and tourism between the UAE and East African markets.
The integration of mobile money payments is set to provide passengers with a seamless and secure booking experience. By offering familiar and convenient payment methods, flydubai caters to the preferences of East African travelers, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Sudhir Sreedharan, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations (UAE, GCC, Africa, and the Indian Subcontinent) at flydubai, emphasized the airline’s commitment to adopting innovative solutions. He noted that since launching operations to Entebbe in 2014 and Mombasa in 2024, there has been growing demand, reinforcing the need for accessible payment solutions.
Judy Waruiru, Regional Managing Director for East Africa Acquiring at Network International, highlighted the significance of this partnership. She stated that integrating mobile money into an international airline underscores the power of strategic collaborations in advancing localized digital payments.
This partnership is poised to have several positive impacts on the East African aviation and financial sectors:
- Increased Accessibility: Travelers without access to traditional banking can now book flights using mobile money, broadening flydubai’s customer base.
- Boost to Tourism and Trade: Simplified payment processes can encourage more travel between East Africa and the UAE, fostering economic growth.
- Digital Payment Adoption: This collaboration sets a precedent for other international airlines to consider mobile money integrations, promoting the adoption of digital payments.
flydubai plans to extend mobile money payment options to more African markets, including Tanzania. This expansion reflects the airline’s strategy to adapt to regional payment preferences and enhance the travel experience for its customers.
The partnership between flydubai and Network International marks a significant milestone in the integration of mobile money solutions in the aviation industry. By aligning with the digital payment trends in East Africa, flydubai not only enhances customer experience but also strengthens its position in the regional market.
