Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has announced the expansion of acceptance of its national payment card ‘HIMYAN’ in the Kingdom of Bahrain to develop digital payment systems and support financial integration among GCC countries.
The initiative aligns with the Third Financial Sector Strategy and QCB’s broader mandate to develop secure and efficient digital payment infrastructure.
With this development, HIMYAN cardholders can now use the card for purchases and cash withdrawals across point-of-sale terminals and ATMs throughout Bahrain.
The service is enabled in accordance with internationally recognized security and protection standards to ensure safe and seamless transactions for users.
The expansion follows QCB’s earlier move to extend HIMYAN card acceptance to the State of Kuwait, as announced on 18 December 2025. With Bahrain now added to the network, HIMYAN continues to grow its regional acceptance footprint across the Gulf region.
QCB stated that the initiative reflects its commitment to strengthening cooperation among GCC countries in the field of payment systems and supporting the wider adoption of national payment solutions.
The expansion is also intended to improve cross-border usability of domestic payment instruments and enhance the efficiency of financial transactions for citizens and residents travelling within the region.
HIMYAN is the first national payment card issued under a Qatari brand, introduced by Qatar Central Bank as part of its efforts to advance digital transformation within the financial sector.
The card is designed to provide secure, reliable, and locally governed payment services, supporting innovation in electronic payments and reducing reliance on external payment networks.
The rollout of HIMYAN across GCC markets forms part of Qatar’s broader strategy to modernize its financial infrastructure and promote interoperability between regional payment systems.
It also supports national objectives aimed at expanding digital financial services and encouraging the adoption of cashless payment solutions.
QCB has reiterated its commitment to continuing collaboration with regional central banks and financial institutions to further expand the acceptance network of HIMYAN and other national payment initiatives.
The move is expected to contribute to greater financial connectivity within the GCC and improve the overall efficiency of cross-border retail payment systems.
