FAB Launches Jaywan Debit Card to Bolster UAE National Payments Ecosystem
By Lauren Towner · 21 July 2026

Quick Summary
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) has launched the Jaywan Debit Card, a sovereign payment solution under the UAE’s national card scheme. Managed by Al Etihad Payments, the card enhances national data sovereignty by providing secure, domestic transactions across UAE merchants, ATMs, and online platforms for FAB account holders.
How Does the Jaywan Debit Card Support UAE National Payments?
The Jaywan Debit Card serves as a cornerstone for the UAE’s sovereign domestic scheme, reducing reliance on international networks for local transactions. By utilizing infrastructure managed by Al Etihad Payments and backed by the Central Bank of the UAE, the card ensures that domestic financial data remains within the national ecosystem. This initiative is designed to foster a more resilient financial future while providing a seamless bridge between traditional banking and modern digital requirements.
- Domestic Online Payments supported on all UAE-based platforms.
- Nationwide ATM Access for cash withdrawals across all emirates.
- Local Merchant Integration for secure point-of-sale transactions.
What Security and Digital Features are Included?
Security is front-loaded in the Jaywan Debit Card rollout, featuring 3D Secure authentication and advanced Chip and PIN technology to mitigate fraud. FAB has ensured the card is fully compatible with its digital banking ecosystem, allowing users to manage their accounts via the FAB Mobile app. Furthermore, the card supports tokenised wallet integration, enabling users to add their Jaywan credentials to digital wallets for contactless mobile payments.
- Real-time Monitoring of transactions via the FAB Mobile app.
- Tokenisation Support for secure mobile device payments.
- Advanced Encryption through 3D Secure protocols for e-commerce.
How Can Customers Access the New Jaywan Scheme?
The Jaywan Debit Card is currently available to all eligible First Abu Dhabi Bank customers. Existing account holders can transition to the new scheme immediately through the FAB Mobile app or by visiting physical branches. For high-net-worth individuals, Elite and Private Banking clients can facilitate their applications through dedicated relationship managers. This rollout marks a critical milestone in the UAE's journey toward a fully integrated, independent payments infrastructure.
FF NEWS TAKE:
The launch of the Jaywan Debit Card by FAB is a significant move that truly moves the needle for national data sovereignty in the Middle East. By establishing a robust sovereign domestic scheme, the UAE is following the global trend of reducing dependence on Western payment giants like Visa and Mastercard for internal commerce. This not only lowers costs for local merchants but also strengthens the UAE's position as a self-reliant global financial hub.
Companies in this story: Al Etihad Payments, Central Bank of the UAE, First Abu Dhabi Bank
People in this story: Andrea Ciancetti, Futoon Al Mazrouei