Indian Travelers Can Now Use UPI for Bookings in UAE and Singapore
Indian tourists visiting the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Singapore can now enjoy a smoother travel experience, thanks to the integration of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for online bookings. This innovative development allows Indian travelers to make payments through their preferred UPI apps, eliminating currency-related hassles and enhancing the ease of travel planning.
On July 29, 2026, NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the international arm of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), announced a strategic partnership with the UAE. This partnership allows UPI acceptance for various online bookings, starting with ‘At the Top, Burj Khalifa,’ one of the country’s most iconic attractions. Subsequently, on September 9, 2026, a partnership with FOMO Pay in Singapore expanded UPI acceptance to the popular Resorts World Sentosa, which welcomed 1.2 million Indian visitors in 2025 alone.
With this integration, Indian travelers can book thrilling experiences at renowned destinations like Universal Studios Singapore, Singapore Oceanarium, and Adventure Cove Waterpark using UPI. The incorporation of UPI for online payments addresses the increasing demand for reliable cross-border payment solutions, reinforcing the digital and economic ties between India, the UAE, and Singapore. This initiative empowers travelers to leverage familiar and secure financial tools while exploring new destinations.
Fostering Digital Innovation
The Ministry of Finance is dedicated to cultivating global partnerships that promote digital innovation and simplify cross-border commerce. This initiative showcases India’s technological advancements on the international stage and caters to the growing need for seamless payment solutions in travel.
Previous Initiatives
Notably, UPI’s potential for international payments was first demonstrated in 2024 when ticketing for the Eiffel Tower was introduced through UPI on January 26. This marked a significant milestone in expanding India’s digital payment footprint across the globe.
Wider Acceptance of UPI Globally
Currently, UPI is accepted in ten countries worldwide, including Singapore, the UAE, France, Mauritius, Nepal, Bhutan, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Greece. This international expansion allows Indian travelers to enjoy hassle-free transactions abroad. Additionally, Uzbekistan is set to become the 11th country to accept UPI, following a commercial agreement announced during the Indian Prime Minister’s visit on August 30, 2026.
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