Middle East, North Africa, Turkey, and Europe: NBK and Alshaya Group Revolutionise Customer Experience with Mastercard’s Aura Rewards Cards

Published on January 21, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

In a landmark collaboration, National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) has partnered with Alshaya Group and Mastercard to introduce two groundbreaking financial products: the NBK Aura World Mastercard Credit Card and the NBK Aura Platinum Mastercard Prepaid Card. These meticulously designed cards aim to redefine customer experiences by offering unmatched value, loyalty rewards, and exclusive benefits. The launch highlights NBK’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric services, further cementing its leadership position in the banking sector.

Strategic Collaboration for Maximum Customer Benefits

The partnership between NBK, Alshaya Group, and Mastercard represents the culmination of an 18-month effort to deliver exceptional value to customers. The newly launched cards provide NBK customers with up to 8% in Aura points on their purchases. These points can be seamlessly redeemed through the Aura loyalty program’s mobile application, offering access to over 50 globally recognized brands managed by Alshaya Group, including H&M, Bath & Body Works, Footlocker, Shake Shack, Charlotte Tilbury, and Harvey Nichols.

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The rewards extend beyond shopping. Cardholders also enjoy exclusive travel benefits provided by Mastercard, including:

• Complimentary access to airport lounges worldwide.
• Free travel insurance.
• Discounts on travel bookings.
• Concierge services and additional travel-related perks.

Launch Event Highlights Visionary Leadership

The launch event at NBK’s headquarters in Kuwait was attended by prominent figures, including Salah Al-Fulaij, CEO of NBK Kuwait; Mohammed Al-Othman, CEO of Consumer and Digital Banking at NBK; John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group; and Jihad Khalil, Mastercard’s General Manager for MENA East Cluster. Senior executives from all three organizations also participated, emphasizing the significance of this collaboration.

During the event, Mohammed Al-Othman expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with Alshaya Group and Mastercard reflects our shared vision of delivering innovative solutions that exceed customer expectations.” He highlighted the initiative’s strategic importance in enhancing the overall banking experience for NBK customers.

Elevating Customer Loyalty: The Aura Program Advantage

The Aura loyalty program, managed by Alshaya Group, serves as the backbone of this initiative. Boasting 8.5 million members globally, with 1.6 million based in Kuwait, Aura enables customers to earn and redeem points effortlessly across an extensive portfolio of brands. The program’s integration with the new cards underscores Alshaya’s dedication to offering unparalleled flexibility and convenience.

John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group, remarked, “This collaboration represents the next evolution in our 40-year journey of innovation and growth. It reaffirms our commitment to enhancing customer experiences and creating value through strategic partnerships.”

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Exclusive Perks for Travelers

The NBK Aura World Mastercard Credit Card and NBK Aura Platinum Mastercard Prepaid Card are designed with travelers in mind. Key benefits include:

• Lounge Access: Cardholders gain entry to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide, ensuring a premium travel experience.
• Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Coverage extends to health emergencies, lost luggage, and trip cancellations, providing peace of mind.
• Discounted Bookings: Partnerships with global travel agencies enable exclusive discounts on flights and accommodations.

A Milestone for Kuwait’s Banking and Retail Sectors

This initiative marks the first collaboration between NBK and Alshaya Group following their exclusive partnership agreement. It sets a new benchmark for banking and retail partnerships in Kuwait and the wider MENA region. NBK’s strategic approach to aligning with leading companies across various sectors aims to deliver exceptional offers and benefits, reinforcing its reputation as a customer-focused institution.

Alshaya Group’s Global Footprint

With a vast portfolio spanning the Middle East, North Africa, Turkey, and Europe, Alshaya Group manages some of the world’s most iconic brands across fashion, dining, and entertainment. This extensive network, combined with NBK’s financial expertise, creates a synergy that enhances customer experiences at every touchpoint.

Mastercard’s Role in Revolutionizing Customer Experiences

Mastercard’s global expertise in payment solutions plays a pivotal role in this collaboration. Jihad Khalil, General Manager for MENA East Cluster, emphasized Mastercard’s commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to deliver seamless and secure financial solutions. The exclusive benefits offered through these cards align with Mastercard’s vision of empowering customers with unparalleled convenience and value.

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Conclusion: A Transformative Step in Banking and Retail

The launch of the NBK Aura World Mastercard Credit Card and NBK Aura Platinum Mastercard Prepaid Card signifies a transformative step in banking and retail collaboration. By combining financial innovation, customer loyalty programs, and exclusive travel benefits, NBK, Alshaya Group, and Mastercard have set a new standard for customer-centric solutions in Kuwait. This initiative not only enhances the banking experience but also redefines the possibilities for retail and travel enthusiasts, solidifying Kuwait’s position as a hub for innovation and excellence in financial services.

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