UPI Goes Live in Qatar With NIPL and QNB; Duty Free First Merchant
Why in the news
NPCI International Payments Ltd. (NIPL) joined hands with Qatar National Bank (QNB) in September 2025 to bring UPI payments to Qatar, aiming to help Indian visitors pay easily at tourist spots and shops.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Partners | NIPL (an NPCI subsidiary) and Qatar National Bank |
| Technology provider | NETSTARS payment solution |
| Coverage | UPI QR code payments at QNB-acquired merchants across Qatar |
| First merchant | Qatar Duty Free outlets |
| Benefit | Quick, safe and smooth UPI payments for Indian tourists at major sites |
Exam angle
- International arm of NPCI: NIPL.
- Qatar partner bank: Qatar National Bank.
- First UPI merchant in Qatar: Qatar Duty Free.