| By Zawya

Mastercard has collaborated with Aafaq Islamic Finance (Aafaq) to unveil a new addition to its World Elite range – the Aafaq World Elite credit card. The innovative Islamic financial product has been meticulously developed to provide enhanced features that improve customer lifestyle experiences.

The recent offering emerged from comprehensive analysis of competing products in the UAE, coupled with thorough understanding of affluent customer expectations. Designed for every occasion and providing advantages at each stage, the Sharia-compliant financial solution effortlessly connects cardholders to diverse premium lifestyle experiences and customized rewards alongside Mastercard’s distinguished benefits.

The Aafaq World Elite credit card encourages digital payments through 20% cashback on Amazon, Careem, Noon and Talabat as an introductory promotion, plus up to 5% rewards on dining, online, international and additional purchases. Additional benefits include complimentary padel and golf club membership, valet parking services, and buy-one-get-one-free vouchers to VOX Cinemas. Travelers receive free airport transportation, complimentary airport meet-and-greet assistance and entry to over 1,300 airport lounges globally. Cardholders experience smooth enrollment through a fully digital process via the Aafaq Digital application.

Usman Basit, CEO of Aafaq, stated that the company aspires to become the UAE’s preferred destination for digital Islamic finance. With its sophisticated technology and comprehensive global knowledge, Mastercard serves as their reliable partner in enhancing digital capabilities and creating new opportunities for customers. The World Elite Credit Card addresses all lifestyle requirements—from online shopping and dining to sports, entertainment, and travel—while providing premium features that enhance every dimension of the customer experience, demonstrating their dedication to innovation and outstanding value throughout contemporary living.

Gina Petersen-Skyrme, SVP and Country Manager for UAE & Oman at Mastercard, explained that the introduction of the Aafaq World Elite Credit Card emphasizes their commitment to providing exceptional value offerings customized to the lifestyle and financial goals of cardholders. At Mastercard, they prioritize establishing meaningful relationships by aligning the appropriate card with the suitable individual. This product accomplishes precisely that—whether involving dining, travel, e-commerce, or international transactions, the Aafaq World Elite Credit Card provides a smooth and beneficial experience.

Aafaq is an award-winning UAE-based organization that delivers innovative Islamic financial products and services. In 2023, it established a strategic partnership with Mastercard to create new credit, prepaid and commercial SME products.

Source:

Mastercard Newsroom. (2026). Aafaq launches World Elite Mastercard credit card, new premium Islamic finance product. Mastercard.
https://www.mastercard.com/news/eemea/en/newsroom/press-releases/en/2026/january/aafaq-launches-world-elite-mastercard-credit-card-new-premium-islamic-finance-product-ri1byyjq