Global digital commerce platform PayPal has opened its first regional headquarters for the Middle East and Africa in Dubai Internet City, marking a major step in its regional expansion.
PayPal’s regional headquarters
The new Dubai hub is designed to bring PayPal’s global commerce capabilities closer to businesses in the region, supporting both large enterprises and small and medium-sized companies in selling across borders.
PayPal said the expanded presence reinforces its commitment to regional customers and partners, while helping millions more consumers and businesses access the global digital economy.
Suzan Kereere, president of global markets at PayPal, said the company serves more than 430 million customers worldwide and aims to extend that reach further through its Middle East and Africa headquarters. She noted that the goal is to empower regional businesses to connect with global consumers while enabling shoppers to make international purchases with confidence.
The move follows several major merchant and partnership agreements that PayPal has secured across the region in recent months.
Expanding partnerships
Otto Williams, senior vice president, regional head, and general manager for PayPal Middle East and Africa, said broader access to the global digital economy can be achieved through strategic partnerships with banks, fintech firms, telecommunications providers, and other commerce players.
He added that PayPal already supports many of the region’s largest online enterprises across key sectors including aviation, tourism, digital goods, and retail. The new regional hub is expected to accelerate support for small and medium-sized businesses by providing tools to help them attract, convert, and retain customers globally.
Big numbers
PayPal accounts for roughly 45% of the global payments market, according to industry estimates. In 2024, the company processed $1.68 trillion in total payment volume and generated $31.8 billion in net revenue. Its services are available in more than 200 markets worldwide.
What to watch
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape shopping and payments, PayPal is developing next-generation commerce experiences, including smart wallets and agent-driven payment solutions.
