Business & Money | Tuesday 10 March, 2015 10:22 am |

MasterCard and McDonald’s today announced a strategic collaboration to introduce innovative electronic payment solutions at McDonald’s restaurants in Saudi Arabia and across other key markets in the Middle East and Africa. The announcement, which highlights the iconic quick-service brand’s ongoing commitment to convenience, aims to leverage the power of both brands to bring customers innovative payment solutions that are safe, simple and secure.

As consumers continue to demand more convenient ways to make purchases, whether on location or online, there is an increasing need for simpler and faster payment solutions. With MasterCard’s latest technology, McDonald’s customers will soon be able to swipe, insert or even tap their payment solutions to pay for purchases, enhancing their payment experience. In addition, MasterCard’s innovative digital wallet solution, MasterPass, will be available for McDonald’s online ordering in countries where the option is available.

Yousif Abdulghani, ‎Vice President & International Relationship Partner at McDonald's Middle East Development Company, commented: “Our alliance with MasterCard comes as part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing our customers’ experience with McDonald’s, providing not only great quality food, but best in class services and solutions too in an inviting and enjoyable environment. This integration of MasterCard’s state-of-the-art smart payment technologies across our restaurants will accept all major credit cards, and will add to our customers’ convenience and ease of accessibility.

Raghu Malhotra, Division President, Middle East and North Africa, MasterCard commented:  “Teaming up with McDonald’s is a great opportunity for us to offer consumers innovative payment options that are safe, simple and secure. As a technology company in the payments industry, MasterCard remains committed to providing the innovation, expertise and flexibility needed to give cardholders the option to pay for purchases anytime, anywhere, and using any device.”

In time, cardholders will be able to use a range of devices – including contactless cards, mobile phones, and other NFC-enabled wearable products – to pay for their meals at McDonald’s restaurants.  These solutions are ideal for quick-payment environments where speed and convenience matter most.

The in-store and online payment technologies will be rolled out in phases in all McDonald’s restaurants across the Middle East and Africa . Additionally, the two world-renowned brands will be combining marketing efforts to offer customers priceless experiences and rewards.