Dubai-based airline flydubai has partnered with Network International to introduce mobile money payment options for customers in Kenya and Uganda.
This collaboration will enable travelers to book flights and pay for services using Mpesa, Airtel Money, and MTN Mobile Money, enhancing digital payment accessibility in East Africa.
With the integration of these mobile money services, flydubai passengers can now make seamless payments when booking flights directly through the airline’s website or mobile app.
The move is expected to improve convenience and financial inclusivity, particularly in markets where mobile money is more prevalent than traditional banking methods.
Expanding Footprint in Africa
Flydubai has been expanding its presence in Africa, having launched operations in Entebbe, Uganda, in 2014 and in Mombasa, Kenya, in 2024.
The airline views the introduction of mobile money as a key strategy to improve customer experience and engagement in the region. The company has also indicated plans to extend similar payment solutions to other African markets, including Tanzania.
Sudhir Sreedharan, Divisional Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations at flydubai, reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to innovation.
“Since launching our operations in East Africa, we have seen growing demand from these markets. This partnership with Network International underscores our commitment to investing in technologies that enhance accessibility and convenience for our customers,” he stated.
Advancing Digital Payments in East Africa
Network International, a leading digital payments provider in the Middle East and Africa, aims to strengthen localized payment solutions through this collaboration. The company views this partnership as a milestone in advancing digital financial inclusion in Africa.
“With East Africa leading in mobile money adoption, integrating these solutions into an international airline demonstrates the impact of strategic collaborations in advancing digital payments,” said Judy Waruiru, Regional Managing Director for East Africa Acquiring at Network International.
“This not only enhances customer experience but also sets a precedent for expanding digital solutions across the region.”
Network International serves over 50 countries, including 40 African markets, offering digital payment solutions to businesses and financial institutions.
Meanwhile, flydubai continues to expand its global network, operating flights to more than 130 destinations with a fleet of 88 Boeing 737 aircraft.
The integration of mobile money payments is expected to benefit thousands of travelers who prefer mobile-based transactions, reinforcing flydubai’s commitment to bridging gaps in financial accessibility across its key markets.
