Contactless payments on the cards for 1,000 UAE stores



MasterCard is to boost the number of UAE stores accepting contactless payments to 1,000 by the end of the year.

Coffee shops, cinemas and convenience stores will be included in the rollout of the firm's PayPass terminals, which allow consumers to buy goods by tapping their card against a sensor.

Other PayPass-enabled devices include smartphones, watches and wrist bands.

A PIN code or signature is only required for purchases above Dh100, making purchasing cheaper items, such as a cup of coffee, even quicker.

MasterCard said it has partnered with payments firm Network International in its expansion of the technology in the UAE.

Eric Hughes, the general manager of Costa Coffee UAE, said all of the chain's stores were ready for contactless payments. "Customers deserve a fast and secure way to pay at the checkout," he said.

How to protect yourself when air quality drops

Install an air filter in your home.

Close your windows and turn on the AC.

Shower or bath after being outside.

Wear a face mask.

Stay indoors when conditions are particularly poor.

If driving, turn your engine off when stationary.

BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE

Starring: Winona Ryder, Michael Keaton, Jenny Ortega

Director: Tim Burton

Rating: 3/5