LuLu Group International, a prominent retail entity based in Abu Dhabi, has implemented the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), India's real-time payment system, across all its stores in the UAE. To commemorate the 78th Indian Independence Day, A. Amarnath, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy, conducted the inaugural UPI transaction at a LuLu Hypermarket in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.
Indian expatriates and visitors now have the option to pay using their RuPay card at LuLu stores. They can also utilize the UPI QR code to facilitate payments through UPI-enabled applications such as Gpay, PhonePe, and Paytm. Saifee Rupawala, CEO of LuLu Group International, highlighted that this new payment option will significantly benefit the over 10 million Indians who visit the UAE annually, enhancing convenience and supporting local trade and economic growth.
UPI is a real-time payment system that integrates multiple bank accounts into a single mobile application, offering a range of banking services including seamless fund transfers and merchant payments. The UPI RuPay card service was jointly launched in Abu Dhabi by President Sheikh Mohamed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February. Following this, both Dubai-based Mashreq Bank and Al Maya Supermarkets have integrated UPI payment solutions.
In celebration of Independence Day, LuLu Group initiated its annual 'India Utsav' festival across all UAE stores. This week-long festival includes discounts on Indian goods, traditional performances, and celebrity appearances. Amarnath, during the festival's inauguration, emphasized that the event underscores the robust bilateral relations and reflects the high demand for Indian products throughout the emirates.
The festival provides discounts on a wide array of Indian products, such as rice, traditional breakfast mixes, cereals, spices, meats, ready-to-cook snacks, and groceries, inviting everyone to explore and enjoy the unique and authentic offerings of Indian culture and cuisine.
