Astra Tech, the leading consumer technology holding group in the MENA region, announces its partnership with Al Etihad Payments (AEP), a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), for the launch of Aani—an advanced instant payment platform. Operated by Al Etihad Payments, Aani will allow digital payments to be processed instantly, on a 24×7 basis, securely and seamlessly. Aani simplifies the payment process by allowing instant fund transfers using only the recipient’s mobile number, email or a QR code, thus eliminating the need to ask for or remember complex IBANs. The integrated solution is available on the PayBy-powered Botim app, making it the first fintech platform to offer the AEP’s Aani solution. 

This innovative service enables instant and secure number-to-number money transfers, revolutionizing the fintech sector across the country. Aani sets a new industry standard by offering full interoperability across all payment services, enabling instant digital payments 24/7.

Abdallah Abu Sheikh, CEO and Founder of Astra Tech and Botim, commented on this collaboration: "We are excited to lead the way in this remarkable advancement in payment technology. Our partnership with Al Etihad Payments signifies our dedication to driving innovation, fostering financial inclusion, and contributing to the UAE’s cashless economy initiatives. With PayBy driving Botim’s financial transactions, surpassing 2 billion transactions recently, this collaboration aligns perfectly with our vision for the Ultra app."

Key features of Aani include Proxy Payments, QR-code-based payments, Request to Pay, and Split Bills, placing it at the forefront of advanced payment technologies. Aani enables secure real-time account-to-account payments within the UAE, simplifying transactions for both consumers and businesses. In its first phase, it will help facilitate instant P2P transfers from wallets or  bank accounts to any participant bank account using mobile numbers as identifiers. Future plans include the introduction of QR code-based payments, further enhancing the platform’s versatility, as well as direct debits and e-cheques.

Users can activate Aani on Botim via three simple steps: Go to the ‘Botim Money’ page, click on ‘Send Money via Aani,’ and click on ‘Activate now.’ It will then be linked to the user’s Botim Pay wallet, allowing them to receive or send money directly into any recipient’s bank account. Users can send and receive money from anyone who has also activated Aani (either on Botim or on any other platform). In case the recipient does not have Aani activated, Botim will send the money as a regular local transfer into their wallet.

Jan Pilbauer, CEO of AEP, said: "At AEP, we are not only reshaping the paradigm of digital payments but also advancing the UAE’s vision of a society less reliant on cash. The integration of Aani with Botim will not only enhance the user experience but also reflects our dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. We look forward to continued collaboration with PayBy and other key partners as we explore additional features and functionalities to deliver the full potential of Aani."

Astra Tech has positioned itself as a leading fintech player in the region, offering a comprehensive suite of digital financial services for both consumers and merchants. In addition to instant peer-to-peer (P2P) transfers, the Ultra app offers international remittances, prepaid card products, and much more. Botim’s fintech offerings are designed with inclusivity, innovation, and security at their core. This partnership amplifies the company’s commitment to driving the transition towards a cashless economy in the UAE, cementing its legacy as a trailblazer in the fintech realm.