How to Accept Card Payments in Your Store: Step-by-Step Guide for UAE Merchants

Overview

Whether you run a boutique in Dubai Mall or a neighbourhood café in Abu Dhabi, offering card payments is no longer optional — it’s expected. Customers want speed, security and choice, and businesses need a simple way to accept both contactless and chip-and-PIN transactions.
This guide walks you through the entire process of getting set up — from selecting a provider to processing your first sale — so you can start taking card payments within days.

Step 1: Choose a Licensed Payment Provider

Before anything else, partner with a UAE-licensed payment gateway or merchant services provider. Working with an approved entity ensures compliance with the UAE Central Bank and PCI DSS security standards.

When evaluating providers, look for:

• Transparent fees (per-transaction or monthly)
• Local AED settlement with no hidden FX charges
• Dedicated merchant support team
• Integration options (POS hardware and SoftPOS mobile apps)

👉 Red Dragon is a UAE-based payment gateway and provider of in-store card terminals for business across the United Arab Emirates.

Step 2: Apply for a Merchant Account

A merchant account lets you receive card transactions directly into your business bank account.
Your provider will ask for:

• Valid trade licence and Emirates ID of owner/director
• Company bank details
• Brief description of business activity and expected volume

Approval usually takes 24-48 hours once documents are verified.
Once approved, you’ll receive your merchant ID and login credentials.

Step 3: Select Your Card Machine (Type & Connectivity)

Here’s where you decide how you’ll accept in-store payments.

Main Options:

1. Countertop POS: Ideal for retail stores and supermarkets. Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection.
2. Portable POS: Perfect for cafés and restaurants; works over Wi-Fi or 4G.
3. Mobile POS (SoftPOS): Turn your phone into a card reader via Tap-on-Phone technology.

When comparing, consider battery life, receipt printing, and network coverage.

🔗 Explore our In-Store Card Terminals for fast, secure options approved for UAE merchants.

Step 4: Install and Train Your Team

After delivery, your POS provider will install the device and pair it with your merchant account. Training is simple — staff just need to:

1. Enter amount → tap / insert / swipe the card
2. Wait for approval (typically 2-3 seconds)
3. Print or send digital receipt

Tip: Run a few test transactions to ensure the device connects properly before go-live.

Step 5: Go Live and Track Your Transactions

Once live, monitor transactions through your merchant dashboard.
Modern systems provide real-time analytics showing:

• Volume by payment type (Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay etc.)
• Daily sales reports and refunds
• Settlement timing and fees

At Red Dragon, you can view all terminals and transactions in one portal — making reconciliation and settlement simple.

Why Choose Red Dragon for In-Store Card Payments?

• Fast Onboarding: Get approved and start taking payments within 48 hours.
• Next-Day Settlement: Funds arrive quickly in your AED account.
• All Payment Methods: Contactless, chip & PIN, mobile wallets.
• PCI DSS Level 1 Security: Trusted by banks and licensed partners.

Ready to modernise your checkout experience?
👉 See our In-Store Card Terminals Now

Related Articles

• Best Card Machines for Small Businesses in the UAE
• Fixed vs Portable Card Machines – Which Is Right for You?
• SoftPOS vs Traditional POS Terminals

FAQs

Q1. Do I need a trade licence to accept card payments in the UAE?
Yes. Only registered businesses with a valid UAE trade licence can apply for a merchant account.

Q2. How long does it take to set up a card machine?
Typically 24–48 hours after submitting your documents to an approved provider.

Q3. Can I accept contactless and mobile wallet payments?
Absolutely — modern POS terminals support Visa PayWave, Mastercard Tap & Go, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Q4. How much are transaction fees in the UAE?
Most providers charge between 2–3 % per transaction, depending on volume and card type.

Q5. What’s the difference between a merchant account and a payment gateway?
A merchant account holds your funds temporarily after each transaction, while a payment gateway is the software that authorises the payment itself.

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