Geidea, a fintech and payments technology provider, has introduced a dual-card routing capability in partnership with UnionPay International.

The feature improves payment flexibility, acceptance rates, and the transaction experience for UnionPay cardholders across the Middle East and Africa.

The capability intelligently routes eligible transactions across dual-network cards and processes payments through the most suitable network based on routing rules and, where applicable, cardholder preference.

Geidea said it intends to improve transaction reliability and consistency across its merchant network, particularly at the point of sale.

The launch comes amid continued growth in outbound travel from China, which has contributed to increased cross-border spending in the region.

The integration aims to reduce friction for Chinese tourists and expatriates by enabling them to use their cards with a level of familiarity similar to that in their home market.

For merchants, the update is expected to improve acceptance rates and streamline payment processing, particularly in retail, hospitality, and tourism sectors that serve international customers.

Depending on routing and issuer arrangements, there may also be currency efficiency benefits.

The collaboration builds on the existing relationship between Geidea and UnionPay International as both organisations continue to expand payment acceptance infrastructure across the region.

The companies said the capability also supports broader financial connectivity between markets.

“Payments should operate seamlessly in the background, regardless of where you are in the world. With dual-card routing, we’re removing friction for UnionPay cardholders while helping our merchants connect more meaningfully with one of the world’s most valuable customer segments.”

said Pankaj Kundra, CEO of Geidea.

“This launch represents a significant milestone in advancing payment acceptance in the region,”

said Luping Zhang, General Manager of UnionPay International Middle East.

“By enabling dual-card routing, we are enhancing reliability for UnionPay cardholders while helping merchants unlock greater value from cross-border customers.”

Geidea said the development supports its broader aim of enabling more seamless cross-border payment experiences.

Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News UAE, based on image by smth.design via Magnific