In addition to a series of training seminars, Visa has developed a toolkit to help merchants understand and embrace contactless payments technology. Visa payWave operates with the customer simply waving their Visa card in front of the point of sale (POS) reader, delivering a speedy, convenient and secure payment experience. For payments below the defined threshold, UAE customers do not need to enter a PIN. 

The contactless technology is also available to customers through mobile phones enabled for the likes of Samsung Pay and Apple Pay, which can simply be tapped at the POS terminal to complete the payment transaction.

Commenting on the training program, Mohanish Agni - Head of Merchant Sales and Solutions - MENA, Visa, said: “Visa payWave delivers tremendous benefits to merchants and cardholders, with the time spent at the checkout point kept to a minimum. Contactless technology is rapidly becoming a fixture across the UAE retail landscape and this training initiative is aimed at educating and building awareness among merchants in order for them to empower their consumers with a fast, simple and hassle-free payment experience.” 

In addition to convenience, Visa payWave comes with the same layer of security available in cards which protects the cardholder’s personal information. The card or phone must also be within four centimeters of the reader, which significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized transactions. 

Agni added: “Over 56 per cent of POS terminals in the UAE now accept Visa payWave cards, underscoring the progress in the deployment of contactless terminals in the country. Visa’s training program is also designed to generate awareness among those merchants who have yet to make the switch to contactless terminals.”