MasterCard payment products win Smart Card accolades

Three of MasterCard Worldwide’s key customer financial institutions in the Middle East, recently walked away with awards at the 2011 Smart Card Awards Middle East. The conference was held in Abu Dhabi, as part of a range of events organized by Cards Middle East 2011, the region’s largest cards and payment exhibition. This year marked the 7th year MasterCard has sponsored the conference as the Official Payment Innovation Partner.

MasterCard customer financial institutions were awarded Best New Card for Bank Audi Lebanon’s Loubnani MasterCard, Best Premium Card for Citibank’s Citi PremierMiles MasterCard and Best Credit Card for Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank’s LuLu Co-brand Card. Bank Audi Lebanon’s Loubnani MasterCard was launched as part of a campaign to enhance the value of the Lebanese Lira, and features a cedar smell as a daily reminder of the country’s symbol. Citibank’s PremierMiles MasterCard offers cardholders the opportunity to earn free flights with their everyday purchases. These miles never expire, and can be redeemed from 5 frequent Flyer Programs with over 50 participating airlines. Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank’s (ADCB) LuLu Co-branded card allows cardholders to earn LuLuPoints with every purchase made with the card. These points can be redeemed for vouchers to be spent at LuLu, Al Falah Plaza and Emirates General Market outlets throughout the UAE.

“We congratulate all the winners of the 2011 Smart Card Awards. At MasterCard, we continuously strive to offer products and payment solutions that will appeal to cardholders’ values and lifestyle needs. As consumers’ needs evolve, we are committed to working closely with our customers and stakeholders to create a range of flexible, secure and convenient payment solutions, coupled with attractive privileges and offers,” said Raghu Malhotra, general manager, Middle East, MasterCard Worldwide

“MasterCard has collaborated with Citibank, ADCB and Bank Audi Lebanon for years, and are pleased to be affiliated with these outstanding institutions. We are delighted that they are being recognized for their efforts, and look forward to developing more differentiated and customized payment solutions with these industry leaders,” Malhotra concluded.