Aldar, a prominent real estate developer based in Abu Dhabi, has partnered with Visa to enable voice-activated payments for real estate service charges. This innovative feature is part of the launch phase of their collaboration focused on implementing Visa Intelligent Commerce in the region. The announcement was made on December 18, 2023, detailing how customers can now interact with an artificial intelligence (AI) agent to complete transactions.
The inaugural transaction showcased this capability when a customer utilized the Live Aldar mobile app to make a payment. The AI agent confirmed the customer’s details and processed the payment using an Emirates NBD Darna Visa Card linked to Aldar’s digital loyalty platform, Darna. This seamless experience marks a significant step forward in integrating technology into everyday financial tasks.
Voice-Activated Convenience for Customers
In the coming weeks, Visa cardholders in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will gain access to this voice-enabled payment option through the Live Aldar app and Aldar’s website. The companies plan to introduce additional features in 2026, enhancing the user experience further.
Harry Nakichbandi, Chief Digital Officer at Aldar, emphasized the transformative nature of this technology, stating, “By pairing Aldar’s AI agent with Visa Intelligent Commerce, we have transformed a routine payment into a customer-first experience that is secure, transparent, and almost instant.” He highlighted that as these AI capabilities expand, customers will benefit from personalized offers, relevant services, and automatic application of Darna points.
Innovating Financial Transactions
Godfrey Sullivan, Senior Vice President and Head of Products and Solutions for CEMEA at Visa, noted that this collaboration exemplifies how Visa Intelligent Commerce facilitates secure, trusted transactions initiated by AI agents on behalf of cardholders. This is particularly relevant for routine financial tasks, making payments easier for consumers.
Initially unveiled in April 2023, the Visa Intelligent Commerce program opens the Visa network to developers creating AI agents that can search, recommend, and transact on behalf of consumers. According to Mark Nelsen, Global Head of Consumer Products at Visa, this advancement is set to revolutionize shopping and purchasing. He articulated the vision of enabling AI developers to leverage the Visa network for seamless and safe transactions.
As Aldar and Visa continue to innovate, this partnership represents a leap forward in the integration of AI within financial services, enhancing convenience and security for customers in the UAE.
