DOHA - American Express (Amex) Middle East and Doha Bank have launched a premium co-branded Card for Qatar residents. The Doha Bank Gold American Express Card which was unveiled at a news conference yesterday marks the first Co-branded programme in Qatar for both companies.
The Card has been customised to offer a wide range of travel and shopping benefits to enhance premium lifestyles of individuals who seek prestigious payment options, personalised service privileges, and everyday value and rewards.
Speaking of partnership between American Express and Doha Bank, Chief Executive Officer of American Express Middle East and North Africa, Trevor Stokes said American Express selects partners who share the same ambitions and have the same focus on innovation, on traditions of good service and on delivering superior business economics.
"Doha Bank like us has great emphasis placed on delivering quality, integrity and trust," he said.
"Bank partnerships are at the core of our network strategy and help in expanding our reach to a wider affluent audience across the region."
The new Card is designed to be a travel essential for affluent customers through complimentary access to airport lounges across the Middle East. Card members are being provided with comprehensive travel insurances and worldwide assistance through a network of 2,200 Travel Service Locations around the world to assure them smooth travel.
Besides, special shopping rewards, exclusive offers for leisure, entertainment and social opportunities are also on offer to help maximise value and prestige for Card members.
Asked whether with the current inflation in Qatar and the region wouldn't the Card get people into further debt, Doha Bank CEO, R Seetharaman said the growth being witnessed in the region in terms of national income and GDP and in this context inflation does not hamper purchasing power.
Stokes pointed out Qatar as the other countries of the region are facing inflation, but Qatar is also one of the leading fastest growing economies in the world. However, he pointed out it is not American Express's policy to encourage people to get into debt; quite the reverse. "We offer payment solutions of many types to all our Card members."
Qatar is an important market for American Express. In 2007, 50 per cent growth in the number of Cards in circulation was generated and recorded over 80 per cent increase in spend on Cards compared to 2006.
"For a young payments market, we believe this indicates a healthy performance and a surging demand for premium products," said Stokes.
"We are confident that the new co-branded Card will further expand our market presence and commitment to discerning individuals."
R Seetharaman said partnering with American Express signals a further strengthening of Doha Bank's Card portfolio and consolidates its leadership status in the Middle East payments industry. "With the Doha Bank Gold American Express Card, we can enhance the depth of our product and service offerings," he said. As part of an introductory offer for the Doha Bank Gold American Express Card, one Cardmember will receive an exclusive opportunity to experience a day of luxury with five of their guests on a VIP private jet trip to a Middle East destination. This offer is valid for new Card applications received until June 30, 2008.
© The Peninsula 2008
