American Express and Doha Bank launch premium co-branded Card

Unveiled at a press conference, the Doha Bank Gold American Express Card marks the first Co-branded programme in Qatar for both companies.

Company officials highlighted that the Card was customised to offer a wide range of travel and shopping benefits to enhance premium lifestyles of individuals who seek prestigious payment options, personalised service privileges, and everyday value and rewards.

The new Card is designed to be a travel essential for affluent customers through complimentary access to airport lounges across the Middle East. Comprehensive travel insurances and worldwide assistance through a network of 2,200 Travel Service Locations around the world will assure smooth travel for Cardmembers. Special shopping rewards, exclusive offers for leisure, entertainment and social opportunities will help maximise value and prestige for Cardmembers.

Trevor Stokes, Chief Executive Officer of American Express Middle East and North Africa, highlighted the importance of bank co-brand programmes:

"Bank partnerships are at the core of our network strategy and help in expanding our reach to a wider affluent audience across the region. We explore strategic alliances with superior business partners that share our dedication to customer service and outstanding business economics, and are delighted to have found a perfect match in Doha Bank. Their exemplary success, focus on innovation, high-quality service tradition and robust growth strategy were deciding factors in introducing the unique co-branded Card."

"Qatar is an important market for us. In 2007, we generated 50 per cent growth in the number of Cards in circulation and over 80% increase in spend on Cards in comparison to 2006. For a young payments market, we believe this indicates a healthy performance and a surging demand for premium products. We are confident that the new co-branded Card will further expand our market presence and commitment to discerning individuals. The backing of two well-known premium brands and the strength of the Card offerings are attributes that will propel demand for this new Card."

Speaking at the press conference today, R. Seetharaman, Chief Executive Officer of Doha Bank, said: "Our partnering with American Express signals a further strengthening of our Card portfolio and consolidates our leadership status in the Middle East payments industry. Drawing upon American Express' expertise in world-class service and exclusive offerings, our co-branded Card will complement the needs of a large section of Qatar's population that aspires to make a prestigious lifestyle statement. Doha Bank is already recognised for wide market coverage and, with the Doha Bank Gold American Express Card, we can enhance the depth of our product and service offerings."

Ziad Bashir Kablawi, Country Manager - American Express Qatar, added: "American Express' partnership with Doha Bank commenced in 2007 when we signed an agreement allowing over-the-counter, online payments and direct debit to be made from the bank's accounts in settling American Express monthly Card statements. This has provided great convenience for our Cardmembers and also given the bank an opportunity to offer their services to our Cardmembers. Now, one year later, we believed the time is ideal to take this partnership to the next level and introduce a product that reflects the finest attributes of both brands."

As part of an introductory offer for the Doha Bank Gold American Express Card, one Cardmember will receive an exclusive opportunity to experience a day of luxury with five of their guests on a VIP private jet trip to a Middle East destination. This offer is valid for new Card applications received until June 30, 2008.

Kablawi added that the creative campaign for the co-branded Card is built around the tag-line "Shine" to reflect that with the many benefits and services of the Card, Cardmembers will truly shine with the special privileges.