Botim, Mbank partner to issue Jaywan prepaid card

Botim, the flagship platform of Astra Tech, has become the first fintech entity in the UAE to roll out the Central Bank-backed Jaywan card scheme through a strategic partnership with Mbank, a leading digital bank.

The collaboration was formalised during a signing ceremony at the Dubai Fintech Summit, attended by Dr Tariq Bin Hendi, CEO and Board Member of Astra Tech and Botim, and Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Mbank.

The agreement enables Botim, powered by PayBy, to issue Jaywan prepaid cards directly to its users via its app.

The integration supports the Central Bank of the UAE’s national payment objectives by offering a secure, digital alternative to cash transactions.

“This launch represents a strategic commitment to enhancing the accessibility and infrastructure of financial services in the UAE,” said Dr  Bin Hendi. “By embedding Jaywan into our platform, we’re not only empowering users with greater financial autonomy but also accelerating the country’s digital transformation.”

Jaywan card: The UAE’s first domestic payment scheme

Developed under the supervision of the Central Bank and operated by Network International, the Jaywan card is the UAE’s first domestic payment scheme. It aims to strengthen financial sovereignty and reduce reliance on international payment networks while promoting local interoperability.

Mbank’s CEO, Mohammed Wassim Khayata, noted that the partnership is aligned with both entities’ shared vision to boost financial innovation and inclusion. “This initiative underscores our commitment to providing cutting-edge digital banking solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers,” he said.

Botim users can apply for the card via the app

The partnership enables verified Botim users to apply for and activate the prepaid Jaywan card directly within the app, bypassing the need for a traditional bank account. The move is designed to bring secure, accessible digital payments to a broader user base.

Botim’s fintech capabilities already include multi-currency prepaid cards, real-time remittances, micro-lending, and in-chat financial services.

The addition of the Jaywan scheme further establishes Botim as a leading digital lifestyle and financial services platform across the MENA region.