NETSTARS Supports QNB Group in Becoming the First Bank in GCC to Accept WeChat Pay e-Commerce
TSE-listed NETSTARS has supported QNB Group, the largest financial institution in the Middle East and Africa, in successfully becoming the first bank in GCC to enable Weixin Pay e-Commerce acceptance, working closely with Darwish Holding to make this achievement possible.
This ground-breaking initiative enables QNB’s e-commerce merchants to offer Weixin Pay (Weixin known internationally as WeChat) as a payment option, catering to the growing number of Chinese tourists and residents. The service is now live on selected Darwish Holding’s retail online stores, including Fifty One East, Fnac, iSpace and Toysaloona in Qatar.
By integrating Weixin’s extensive e-commerce ecosystem into the GCC, this collaboration fosters greater financial inclusivity and drives digital innovation. Customers can now enjoy safe, seamless and secured transactions at local merchants, enhancing their overall shopping experience. As a pioneer in e-commerce and digital payment innovation, QNB continues to play a central role in transforming Qatar’s financial and banking landscape.
As a digital banking leader, QNB has played a vital role in enabling the successful implementation of this solution by leveraging its robust acquiring infrastructure and advanced payment gateway systems. The Bank worked closely with Darwish Holding and NETSTARS to ensure full compliance with international security standards and seamless integration with local merchants.
Darwish Holding’s partnership with QNB and NETSTARS to introduce Weixin Pay to the e-commerce landscape in Qatar reflects its commitment to anticipating global consumer expectations and delivering a best-in-class retail experience. In support of the country’s ongoing efforts to attract tourists—especially from China—it is only natural that it adapts and offers familiar, seamless solutions tailored to the customers’ needs. Darwish Holding and its subsidiaries have long championed retail innovation, and this collaboration further reinforces Qatar’s position as a modern, welcoming destination.
As for NETSTARS, the introduction of Weixin Pay in Qatar’s e-commerce landscape aligns with its mission to expand seamless, secure payment experiences globally. This step comes to support the advancement of cashless solutions in Qatar and to help enhance everyday services for both residents and visitors.
Norbert Gehrke
