Burgan Bank has introduced Click to Pay, a new biometrics-powered digital payment service developed in partnership with Visa, marking a first for Kuwait’s financial sector. The launch aligns with the country’s wider New Kuwait Vision 2035 to create a digital economy and reduce reliance on cash transactions.
The service, unveiled this week, allows customers to make online purchases through a single tap, without entering long account details or one-time passwords (OTPs). By registering once with unique identifiers such as a phone number or email, users can authenticate payments securely through fingerprint or facial recognition.
Officials said the technology is designed to raise the bar for secure, convenient online transactions while responding to Kuwait’s fast-growing e-commerce market.
Driving digital transformation
Manaf Al-Menaifi, Acting General Manager of Retail Banking at Burgan Bank, said the introduction of Click to Pay reflects the institution’s commitment to delivering a seamless digital experience.
“In response to the market’s growing reliance on e-commerce and digital payment solutions, Burgan Bank continues to invest in financial technologies and information security to ensure every purchase is seamless and secure,” he said.
The launch comes as the bank seeks to reinforce its position as a leading digital services provider, focusing on sustainable growth and customer trust.
Security and customer trust
According to the bank, the service complies with FIDO authentication standards and integrates Visa Payment Passkey Solutions, combining biometric checks with encrypted tokens to protect sensitive financial data. Multiple cards can be registered under one profile, giving customers flexibility while ensuring consistent security at checkout.
The initiative is part of Burgan Bank’s wider investment in digital infrastructure, advanced technologies, and employee training to adapt to the rapidly changing financial landscape.
Barrak Al-Mattar, General Manager of Information Technology, said: “Kuwait is accelerating its transition to a cashless economy, and Burgan Bank aims to lead this shift by offering digital-first solutions that balance convenience with robust security.”
Consumer demand for faster checkouts
Visa’s regional leadership highlighted the significance of the launch. Diane Teulery, Visa’s Head of Digital Solutions for MENA, pointed to the company’s 2025 Checkout Friction Report, which found that 75% of Kuwaiti consumers would shop more often if one-click or biometric payment options were available.
“Click to Pay with biometrics delivers exactly that, reducing cart abandonment and enabling secure, seamless payments,” she said, adding that the collaboration with Burgan Bank supports both the Central Bank of Kuwait’s digital strategy and the government’s Vision 2035.
Supporting awareness and sustainability
Alongside technological innovation, Burgan Bank said it continues to raise awareness about safe digital practices, participating in the Central Bank’s “Let’s Be Aware” (Diraya) campaign, which educates consumers about online fraud and scam prevention.
The bank also linked the move to its environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals, noting that digital payments reduce the need for physical card production, cut waste, and promote financial inclusion.
Analysts say the adoption of biometrics-powered payments in Kuwait could set a precedent for wider regional use, reinforcing the country’s ambition to position itself as a digital-first financial hub.
