Al Ansari Exchange integrates Aani for seamless instant payments

By Delisha Fernandes

Al Ansari Exchange, the largest remittance and foreign exchange company in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has partnered with Al Etihad Payments (AEP), a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), to elevate customer satisfaction through the utilisation of Aani, an instant payment platform.

This strategic partnership will allow all Al Ansari Exchange customers to enjoy simple, secure, and instant digital payments, such as money transfer, bill settlement and peer-to-peer payments via the recipient’s mobile number, email or a QR code, instead of the usual exchange of long and complex International Bank Account Numbers (IBANs). Additionally, Aani offers a comprehensive suite of advanced payment technologies, including Proxy Payments, QR-code-based payments, Request to Pay and Split Bills.

Ali Al Najjar, Chief Operating Officer at Al Ansari Exchange, said, “Our collaboration with Al Etihad Payments represents our ongoing commitment to digital innovation and prioritising customer needs. With Aani, we are empowering our customers with a platform that offers convenience, security and speed in their digital payment transactions. We commend the CBUAE and AEP for pioneering this initiative, which aligns with our shared goal of driving financial inclusivity and innovation in the region.”

Jan Pilbauer, Chief Executive Officer of Al Etihad Payments said, “Empowering consumers and businesses alike, Aani prioritizes digital financial inclusion, creating efficiency and accessibility within the UAE’s financial ecosystem. Through strategic collaborations with key partners like Al Ansari Exchange, Aani aims to amplify its reach and impact. By integrating Aani into their services, financial institutions not only enhance their offerings but also contribute to the advancement of a cashless society, ushering in a future where innovation and collaboration redefine the way we transact.”

By linking their accounts to the Aani app, Al Ansari Exchange customers can complete their transactions at any of the company branches across the UAE or on the mobile app. Moreover, Aani will be integrated with Al Ansari Exchange WPS Payroll card and prepaid cards, providing customers expanded access to merchant payments and instant transfers to any bank account, cards and wallets in the UAE supported by Aani.