By OpeOluwa Okudero 
In a significant move to deepen its global footprint, PayPal has officially launched its first regional hub in the Middle East and Africa (MEA), choosing Dubai Internet City as its base of operations. The expansion signals the company’s strategic focus on unlocking cross-border commerce, enhancing digital payment accessibility, and empowering both enterprises and consumers across the region.
Powering Growth Through Digital Access
With over 430 million global customers, PayPal’s arrival in MEA aims to provide businesses—large and small—with seamless payment experiences, secure transaction frameworks, and access to international payment networks. This new regional presence is expected to boost cross-border trade, helping merchants expand their reach while enabling local consumers to confidently engage in global e-commerce.
“We want to empower businesses in this region to connect with our global consumers,” said Suzan Kereere, President of Global Markets at PayPal, during the Dubai AI Festival 2025. “And we’re developing next-gen shopping experiences at speed—from smart wallets to agentic commerce.”
A Hub for Innovation and Partnership
“We are honored to already serve many of the region’s largest online enterprises,” said Otto Williams, SVP and Regional Head for MEA at PayPal. “With our new hub, we’re poised to do even more, especially for small and medium businesses.” no
The Dubai hub represents more than a geographic expansion—it’s a statement of intent. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape global commerce, PayPal is positioning itself as both a technology innovator and economic enabler in MEA.
Through strategic collaboration and cutting-edge fintech solutions, the company aims to close the digital divide and build a more inclusive global economy
Susan Olalere
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