Doha, Qatar: In a landmark move to boost cross-border digital payments, Qatar National Bank (QNB) has enabled LuLu Hypermarket Qatar to become the first major retail chain in the country to accept Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions across all its stores. The initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening financial cooperation between Qatar and India, while promoting innovation in digital payment systems that cater to the needs of Indian residents and visitors.

The official launch ceremony took place at LuLu Hypermarket, The Pearl-Qatar, and was graced by the presence of India’s Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, along with senior officials from QNB and LuLu Hypermarket. The event celebrated the growing partnership between the two nations in enhancing secure, seamless, and technology-driven payment solutions, reflecting both countries’ shared vision of advancing financial inclusion and convenience.

As part of this partnership, QNB has implemented QR code–based UPI payment solutions across LuLu’s extensive retail network in Qatar. This enables Indian travelers and residents to make instant payments directly from their Indian bank accounts using UPI-enabled mobile applications. The system ensures faster, safer, and more convenient transactions, eliminating the need for currency exchange or international cards.

The introduction of UPI payments at LuLu Hypermarkets also comes as part of QNB’s wider strategy to expand UPI infrastructure across Qatar’s key tourist destinations, retail outlets, and hospitality partners. This expansion will further enhance Qatar’s reputation as a digital-friendly and visitor-centric destination, especially for the large number of Indian tourists who visit the country each year.

This milestone reflects QNB’s continued commitment to supporting Qatar’s National Digital Vision and driving the nation’s transition toward a cashless economy. By enabling UPI payments, QNB continues to lead the region in providing innovative and interoperable cross-border payment solutions, contributing to financial modernization and inclusion. The QNB Cards and Payments Division remains a pioneer in delivering safe, secure, and advanced digital payment systems.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mohamed Althaf, Global Director of LuLu Group International, said: “I am happy to see that India’s UPI is now available in Qatar. UPI has gained remarkable global acceptance as a trusted and efficient digital payment platform, connecting millions of users worldwide. Its introduction here will not only benefit Indian visitors and residents but also support Qatar’s vision of promoting cashless transactions and financial innovation.” LuLu Hypermarket, one of the most trusted retail brands in the region, proudly embraces this initiative as a progressive step to enhance customer convenience through its strategic partnership with QNB.