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Our latest Travel Trends report, issued by the Mastercard Economic Institute (MEI), reveals that despite ongoing global headwinds, including currency fluctuations and geopolitical uncertainty, travelers are prioritizing experiences that are meaningful, immersive and connected to their personal passions.

According to a Mastercard-commissioned report by Genesis Analytics, Africa’s digital payments economy is projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2030. That projection reflects a seismic shift in how Africans transact, save and build livelihoods. But unlocking this potential requires more than optimism—it demands commitment, infrastructure and scale.

Mastercard has prioritized resilience, digital innovation, and inclusive financial solutions—partnering with government bodies and launching vital initiatives to support the economy, empower SMEs, and ensure continued access to services, while adapting to evolving challenges with flexibility and purpose.

Across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EEMEA), women are redefining the business landscape. Mastercard’s latest research reveals a powerful trend: 78% of women in the region aspire to start their own businesses. This growing entrepreneurial spirit signals a significant shift, one that has the potential to drive economic development, innovation, and financial inclusion.

At Mastercard, we believe in empowering every business - whether it’s a tech-driven startup in Saudi Arabia, a small retailer in Egypt, or an export-focused SME in Kazakhstan. Through strategic partnerships with fintech companies, governments, and banks, we are ensuring that SMEs have access to cutting-edge digital payment solutions, real-time insights, and credit opportunities.

Over the past two decades, we at Mastercard have been actively involved in introducing cutting-edge digital payment solutions to the Egyptian market in line with the government’s vision for a financially inclusive future.