Mastercard launches program to support MENA small businesses amid regional challenges

Mastercard has introduced the "Built Small. Moving Strong." program to assist small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The initiative aims to help SMBs overcome trade disruptions, rising energy and logistics costs, and other challenges caused by regional conflict by providing financial tools, digital enablement, and partnerships with banks and government entities. Collaborations include launching an SMB commercial card with First Abu Dhabi Bank, offering credit limits with RAKBANK, and providing spending incentives through Pemo and Amazon vouchers. This program is part of Mastercard's broader commitment to connect more people and businesses to the digital economy and enhance financial resilience in the region.