Emirates Skywards and Visa sign exclusive multi-year agreement

Monday, February 26, 2024

Emirates Skywards, the acclaimed loyalty program of Emirates and flydubai, has announced an exclusive, multi-year strategic partnership with Visa, a global leader in digital payments.

The new collaboration with Visa aims to enhance cooperation between Emirates Skywards and co-brand issuer partners across the GCC. It will enable the loyalty program to work more closely with its partners on personalization and data-driven decision-making, enhance digitization and innovation, and create more opportunities for personalized rewards and products on co-brand card propositions.

The agreement was signed in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, along with senior executives from both Emirates and Visa.

Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, said: “We’re excited to announce this landmark partnership with Visa – a strategic agreement which will unlock incremental value for our loyal members across the GCC and will tighten our collaboration with our banking partners in the region. This agreement is a major milestone for Emirates Skywards as it continues to lead the industry with innovative digital-first products and experiences.” 

Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, Senior Vice President and Group Country Manager for GCC at Visa, added: “This multi-year exclusive deal with Emirates Skywards, one of the largest of its kind worldwide and the largest in scale in the region, is a testament to Visa’s global leadership in travel co-brands and a significant milestone in our journey to enhance the payment experience for travelers worldwide. Here in the UAE, our Global Travel Intentions study revealed that 70% of outbound travelers consider digital payments integral to a secure and rewarding travel experience. This large-scale partnership is a step towards fulfilling that need and we are thrilled with this opportunity to work with Emirates in bringing new experiences to Visa cardholders in the UAE and GCC.’’

Strategic Partnership Between Two Global Brands

This strategic partnership between two global brands is set to drive growth for both organizations, increase investments in the co-brand program, and open new opportunities for Emirates Skywards to collaborate closely with financial partners across the region. Members will enjoy personalized rewards and enhanced travel opportunities through the optimized use of data, technology, and resources.

Emirates Skywards and Visa co-branded cardholders can anticipate an improved customer journey and exclusive offers, including accelerated Miles earning opportunities, customized promotions, and other experiences tailored to member preferences.

One of the World’s Most Valued Loyalty Programs

With over 30 million members worldwide, Emirates Skywards stands as one of the most valued and recognized loyalty programs globally. The program offers four tiers of membership – Blue, Silver, Gold, and Platinum – each earning exclusive privileges such as instant flight upgrades, priority check-in and boarding, complimentary seat selection, excess baggage allowance, Cash+Miles options for ancillary products, and complimentary Wi-Fi onboard.

A Pioneer in the Industry

Emirates Skywards continues to be a pioneer in the industry, consistently recognized for its innovative product offerings. Since its establishment, the loyalty program has received over 50 awards, notably including the recognition for “Best Earning and Redemption Ability” at the 2023 Frequent Traveler Awards.World’s Leading Rewards Programme at the prestigious 2023 World Travel Awards – an honor it has achieved 10 out of the last 12 years.

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