iGA launches eWallet for government eServices in co-operation with BENEFIT, CrediMax

The Information and eGovernment Authority (iGA) announced the launch of its eWallet, a new online payment method for government eServices.

The eWallet is being made available in cooperation with The BENEFIT Company, which runs the Credit Reference Bureau network and provides the electronic funds transfer system between banks, and CrediMax, a pioneer in credit card and payment gateways.

The announcement was made during a meeting between iGA Chief Executive Mohammed Ali AlQaed, BENEFIT CEO Abdulwahid Janahi, and CrediMax Chief Executive Yousif Ali Mirza at iGA’s headquarters in Muharraq, which was also attended by iGA Deputy Chief Executive of Electronic Transformation, Dr Zakareya Ahmed AlKhajah and other executives from the partnering entities.

Mr AlQaed stated that the eWallet was created by iGA to complement its existing smart payments program, which it seeks to continuously improve: “The new eWallet is in accordance with our strategy to offer comprehensive digital government eservices to the public across a range of channels, while remaining committed to the highest standards of security and privacy.

“Our co-operation with the private sector is a realisation of the vision of the Kingdom’s senior leadership, which is aimed at encouraging businesses to take the lead in the ICT sector, with the government playing the role of regulator.” Mr AlQaed expressed his gratitude to BENEFIT and CrediMax for their continuous co-operation with the Authority in offering payment solutions for digital services.

BENEFIT CEO, Abdul Wahid Janahi stated that the company greatly values its ongoing cooperation with the iGA, which comes within the framework of a partnership between the two organisations that includes several joint initiatives: “The payment options available through BenefitPay continue to be expanded upon.

Our goal is to provide innovative electronic payment options which reduce the need for physical cash translations, thereby contributing to the government’s national plan to promote online services. We would like to see a future in which electronic payments are central to the culture and financial infrastructure of the country.”