travel 16 September 2026 Nile Post
Maqam Travels and Salaam Bank Partner for Digital Hajj/Umrah Prepaid Card
Maqam Travels and Salaam Bank have launched a prepaid Visa card to digitize the Hajj and Umrah experience, offering a secure and convenient alternative to carrying cash for pilgrims. The initiative aims to enhance financial inclusion and streamline transactions for travelers to Saudi Arabia. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/371105/maqam-travels-salaam-bank-launch-prepaid-visa-card-to-digitize-hajj-and-umrah-experience
Pilgrims undertaking the Hajj and Umrah journeys from Uganda will now benefit from a new prepaid Visa card, a joint initiative between Maqam Travels and Salaam Bank. This innovative solution is designed to digitize the pilgrimage experience, moving away from the traditional risks associated with carrying large sums of cash.
The prepaid card allows for secure and easy financial transactions while in Makkah and Madinah. Family members can conveniently send money to pilgrims, facilitating seamless transactions during their spiritual journey. Officials highlighted that the card is powered by an international payment system and is secured with a personal PIN, ensuring the safety of funds even if the card is misplaced.
With a loading limit of up to Shs110 million, the card offers a secure way for pilgrims to manage their finances abroad. Salaam Bank noted that the process for obtaining the card is straightforward, even for individuals without a traditional bank account, provided they are recommended by Maqam Travels. This move aligns with the government’s broader agenda of promoting financial inclusion.
Maqam Travels emphasized that the card is not limited to Muslim pilgrims but is available to Ugandans of all faiths, including business travelers. They also highlighted the security benefits, such as the ease of replacing a lost card, which offers peace of mind for performing religious rituals. The adoption of digital payment methods is seen as essential, with guests noting that even access to sacred sites in Makkah can be facilitated through digital connectivity.
The launch event in Kampala also saw calls for easier travel procedures for Hajj and Umrah, particularly following Uganda’s declaration as Ebola-free. The initiative encourages a shift towards digital payments for enhanced security and convenience for all travelers.