29 June 2004
DUBAI - Emirates, one of the fastest-growing airlines in the world, to further consolidate its position in the field of e-commerce as well as to enhance security for the increasing number of passengers who book on-line, has joined over 17,500 leading global merchants to adopt the latest e-commerce security solution, 'Verified by Visa' (VbV).
The announcement comes as Visa is witnessing an all-time boom in Middle East cardholder e-payments. In 2003, the annual turnover of e-transactions by regional Visa cardholders rose 60 per cent over the previous year, proving that cardholders are increasingly discovering the convenience and security of paying with Visa on the Internet.
Joshua Koshy, Emirate's senior vice president, IT, said: "Emirates believes in offering the most innovative and reliable services available. The adoption of VbV by Emirates is both strategic and timely and will further enhance the airline's services by creating a safer environment for e-transactions.''
The airline went live with VbV earlier this month, launching the service in the UAE and New Zealand. A full rollout in Australia, the United States and 16 other countries has now been completed.
David Treadgold, Head of Operations Middle East for Visa International, said: "Emirates' decision to go with VbV is of great significance to the region's e-landscape. As one of the most prominent companies to adopt VbV technology, Emirates is setting the trend for future Middle East merchants to further consolidate the region's e-marketplace.'' The retailer's benefits of using VbV include reduced costs, guarantee of payment while cardholder's confidence is increased.
BY A STAFF REPORTER
© Khaleej Times 2004
