PayPal Expands Its Presence in the Middle East with New Dubai Office

International digital payments platform PayPal is making a strategic move to deepen its presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets. Suzan Kereere, President of Global Markets at PayPal, shares insights on how the new regional hub in Dubai aligns with the company’s global strategy, how it is tapping into the region’s booming e-commerce and fintech sectors, and why partnerships and financial inclusion are central to PayPal’s vision for the future.

From empowering startups to supporting large enterprises in cross-border trade, Kereere outlines how PayPal plans to shape a more connected, inclusive digital economy across the Middle East and beyond.

A Timely Expansion into the Middle East

The Middle East is undergoing a remarkable digital transformation. With governments investing heavily in infrastructure, and fintech innovation burgeoning, consumers are adopting digital solutions at an unprecedented rate.

Kereere points out that the new regional hub in Dubai isn’t just a symbolic gesture; it’s a strategic move designed to bring PayPal closer to its customers and partners. This proximity allows for real-time collaboration, accelerated innovation, and more tailored offerings to meet the unique needs of the region. The Dubai office serves as an anchor for PayPal’s Global Markets strategy, extending its reach to over 80 countries from this dynamic crossroads.

Tapping into a $200 Billion Digital Payments Market

With a population of 1.9 billion people and a rapidly growing digital payments market valued at $200 billion, PayPal is strategically positioning itself to leverage the immense potential across the region.

Kereere emphasizes that the Middle East is emerging as a leading force in shaping the digital commerce landscape. PayPal’s global scale, combined with its diverse and adaptable suite of products, equips the company to drive the next wave of economic growth. By forming partnerships across fintech, commerce, and financial services, PayPal aims to ensure seamless connectivity into the global digital economy, facilitating frictionless checkouts and supporting gig economy workers with quick payouts.

Partnerships and Local Innovations

Collaboration is at the core of PayPal’s strategy in the Middle East. “Partnership is our superpower,” Kereere notes, highlighting the company’s focus on relationships with banks, fintechs, telecommunications providers, and other commerce stakeholders. This collaborative approach fosters a network effect that ultimately benefits shared customers.

Through PayPal Ventures, the company has invested in some of the region’s most promising fintech startups, such as Tabby in the UAE. These investments not only allow PayPal to learn from local innovators but also amplify their reach through PayPal’s robust infrastructure.

Supporting Businesses of All Sizes

PayPal’s ambition extends across the spectrum of business sizes in the region. For large enterprises, PayPal offers sophisticated global commerce capabilities, making entry into new markets seamless and requiring minimal integration.

Conversely, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups are provided with tools to navigate the complexities of commerce. PayPal’s partnership with Ignyte exemplifies this commitment, enabling thousands of startups to go global from day one. By simplifying multi-currency transactions and assisting businesses in finding new customers, PayPal aims to level the playing field.

Bridging Financial Inclusion Gaps

In a region where financial inclusion is crucial, PayPal is focused on bridging gaps for underserved communities by fostering a secure and inclusive digital payments ecosystem.

Kereere highlights that financial inclusion can be a powerful catalyst for equitable growth. Through collaborations with partners like TerraPay, PayPal is enabling wallet-to-wallet transfers that help integrate millions into the digital economy—particularly those previously outside the formal banking system. This commitment encompasses both accessibility and protection, establishing an ecosystem where every transaction is supported by the trust that PayPal represents.

The mindset of inclusion is woven into the fabric of PayPal’s approach, shaping everything that the company aims to accomplish in the region.

A Vision for the Future

As PayPal establishes its new regional hub in Dubai, the company is not just planting roots; it is laying the groundwork for an expansive vision for the future. By focusing on partnerships, technological adaptations, and inclusive strategies, PayPal is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the digital economy of the Middle East and beyond. Through its innovative solutions, it seeks to empower businesses of all sizes and build a more inclusive financial ecosystem for all.