UAE consumers and businesses are familiar with the variety of options available in the rapidly evolving world of digital payments. The market is thriving, offering options ranging from card payments to digital wallets and even traditional cash. However, the focus now extends beyond the method of payment to include the background processing of those payments. And one name that’s gaining traction is Arab Financial Services (AFS).
Originally born in Bahrain over 40 years ago as a traveler’s checks business, AFS has undergone a remarkable transformation. Fast forward to 2025, and they’ve not only evolved into a digital payment powerhouse but have officially stepped into the UAE’s crowded payments space. Their goal? Their goal is to provide value-driven merchant acquisition solutions, specifically tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
So, what’s different about AFS? According to CEO Samer Soliman, it’s all about speed, simplicity, and empowerment. “We know the UAE is a highly penetrated market,” he says. “But we believe there’s still a gap when it comes to offering merchants, particularly SMEs, the ability to manage everything on one screen. They should have access to everything, from settlements to reporting. 
That’s where AFS sees an opportunity to stand out. With a strong emphasis on early fund settlement, AFS offers merchants a faster route to liquidity. Most platforms operate on a standard “transaction + 1” model, but AFS promises to optimize even that, making the funds available to merchants faster than many competitors.
The company’s tech-first approach and profound understanding of merchant needs make it a compelling choice for businesses wanting an easier, faster way to handle payments. Soliman adds, “It’s not just about bringing in new tech. It’s about rethinking the entire value chain and making it more SME-friendly.”
Backed by 37 banks and financial institutions, AFS operates in over 20 countries and already serves more than 60 financial clients. Now it’s looking to leave a major imprint in the UAE — alongside existing big players like Magnati, Network International, and global giants Visa and Mastercard.
In a region where customer experience and operational speed are key, AFS believes that its merchant-centric solutions and early-settlement model could be the start of the next generation in UAE payments.
Whether you’re a small café in Sharjah or an online boutique in Dubai, the future of smooth, fast, and hassle-free payment processing may just lie with AFS.
