barq has launched global cross-border QR payments through a partnership with Alipay+, the unified wallet gateway operated by Ant International.
The service allows more than 12 million barq users to make payments abroad by scanning QR codes at merchants that accept Alipay+.
It will be available across more than 220 markets, including destinations in the Middle East, Asia, Europe and the UK, covering sectors such as retail, dining, transport and healthcare.
barq said it is the first Alipay+ partner in the Middle East to enable outbound cross-border QR payments.
The rollout will begin progressively from May 2026.
The initiative supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which includes advancing digital payments and reducing reliance on cash.
It also reflects broader efforts to expand the country’s digital financial infrastructure.
Ahmed Alenazi, CEO and founder of barq, said:
“This collaboration enables our customers to pay globally with the same simplicity they experience locally, setting a new benchmark for Saudi fintech and accelerating our vision of connecting users to the global economy.”
Pietro Candela, General Manager of EMEA at Alipay+, said:
“Alipay+ is delighted to partner with barq to promote QR payments from the Kingdom, directly supporting its Vision 2030 goals for innovation.”
Featured image credit: Alipay press release
