LuLu Group International, a retail giant based in Abu Dhabi, has recently introduced the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) at all its stores in the UAE. This move allows Indian expats and visitors to make payments using their RuPay card at LuLu stores. The inaugural transaction was performed by A. Amarnath, the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Indian Embassy, at a LuLu Hypermarket in Abu Dhabi to mark the 78th Indian Independence Day. This initiative is expected to benefit over 10 million Indians who travel to the UAE each year, providing convenience and boosting the local trade and economy.
UPI is a real-time payment system in India that consolidates multiple bank accounts into a single mobile application. It enables seamless fund transfers, merchant payments, and other banking features through various UPI-powered apps like Gpay, PhonePe, and Paytm. The introduction of UPI at LuLu stores follows the joint announcement by President Sheikh Mohamed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February of the UPI RuPay card service in Abu Dhabi. Other establishments in the UAE, such as Mashreq Bank and Al Maya Supermarkets, have also adopted UPI payment solutions.
In addition to the UPI payment facility, LuLu Group also launched its annual ‘India Utsav’ festival across all its UAE stores to celebrate Independence Day. The week-long event features discounts on Indian products, traditional performances, and celebrity appearances. A. Amarnath emphasized that the festival showcases the strong bilateral relationships between India and the UAE, as well as the demand for Indian products in the emirates. The festival offers discounts on a variety of Indian products, including rice, traditional breakfast powders, cereals, spices, meats, ready-to-cook snacks, and groceries.
The introduction of UPI at LuLu stores is a significant step towards providing a seamless and convenient payment experience for Indian expats and visitors in the UAE. By allowing customers to use their RuPay card and UPI-powered apps for payments, LuLu Group aims to enhance customer satisfaction and boost local trade and economy. The adoption of UPI payment solutions by other establishments in the UAE further highlights the growing importance of real-time payment systems in the region.
The ‘India Utsav’ festival organized by LuLu Group adds a cultural touch to the Independence Day celebrations by showcasing Indian products, traditional performances, and culinary delights. The festival not only offers discounts on a wide range of Indian products but also provides a platform for customers to explore and experience the rich diversity of Indian culture. With celebrity appearances and special events planned throughout the week, the festival aims to attract a diverse audience and promote cross-cultural exchanges between India and the UAE.
Overall, LuLu Group’s introduction of UPI at its stores and the launch of the ‘India Utsav’ festival demonstrate the company’s commitment to providing a holistic shopping experience for its customers. Through innovative payment solutions and cultural celebrations, LuLu Group continues to strengthen its bond with the Indian community in the UAE and contribute to the growth of local trade and economy. The initiatives not only enhance customer convenience but also showcase the rich cultural heritage of India, creating a unique and engaging shopping experience for all.
