Burgan Bank sets the trend with Middle East's first Visa prepaid card

Available in several denominations starting from KD25 up to KD500, Burgan Bank Visa prepaid cards can be purchased by customers irrespective of whether or not they are existing bank account or Visa cardholders. Special features of the card include the option to reload additional funds on the card whenever required, immediate replacement in case of theft or loss of the card, and personalisation of the card with images and greeting phrases for special occasions.

Commenting on the new product, Eyad Al-Serri, General Manager-Consumer Banking of Burgan Bank stated: "We are extremely happy to enhance our portfolio with the region's very first Visa prepaid card which is tailored to suit various lifestyles and will no doubt appeal to people of all ages and different backgrounds, without the need for credit worthiness qualifications.

"Not only is the Burgan Bank Visa prepaid card an ideal payment method for everyday purchases or when travelling, but there are also many occasions such as birthdays, festivals, weddings where the card can be bought as a gift, reducing any risk of loss or theft that can occur with cash - a perfect example of this was during the recent 'Mothers Day' celebrations where the card received a very encouraging response. We are very confident that the new product will appeal to a large audience."

Supported by the Visa network, the prepaid cards can be used for direct payments in physical and online locations where Visa cards are accepted including hotels, shops, restaurants and also for cash withdrawals at ATMs in over 130 countries worldwide.

Visa International's Vice President Business Development for Middle East, Jonathan Cabedo commented: "We applaud Burgan Bank for this visionary initiative in bring plastic payments closer to a wider audience. This new product is ideal for teenagers, children and the elderly providing them with a safe and convenient payment card that can be used at home and abroad.

"More importantly, the scope of Visa prepaid cards is not limited only to personal use but also extends to the business community. For example, corporations can provide their executives with cards for travel payments or else prepaid cards can be purchased as a gift when rewarding staff performance - the choices are endless!"

Visa Burgan prepaid cards can be purchased in Kuwait at 17 branches of Burgan Bank or online via www.beebank.com or www.burgan.com. Customers can buy them in various or equal denominations and will be provided a PIN number for usage.

Eyad Al-Serri concluded: "Modern lifestyles are constantly changing and the need to move ahead with swifter, easier and safer payment methods for every walk of life is becoming more important than ever. We are confident that the versatility of the new prepaid card combined with the worldwide acceptance of Visa will provide added value for purchasers of the cards."