Payment Methods Accepted

Understanding the various payment options available on Aswaq Online helps ensure smooth transactions for both buyers and sellers. This guide outlines all accepted payment methods, their benefits, and considerations.

Platform Payments vs. Direct Payments

Aswaq Online supports two main payment approaches:

Platform Payments

These are payments processed through our secure system:

• Provide buyer protection features
• Create transaction records for both parties
• Allow for easier dispute resolution
• Enable ratings and reviews
• Transaction fees may apply

Direct Payments

These are arranged between buyers and sellers:

• Handled outside the platform
• No platform processing fees
• Less formal record-keeping
• Limited dispute assistance available
• Fully responsible for your own transaction security

Online Payment Methods

Credit and Debit Cards

• Cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express
• Processing time: Instant authorization with 2-3 business days for settlement
• Transaction limits:
  • Minimum: AED 5
  • Maximum: AED 50,000 per transaction
• Verification: 3D Secure authentication required
• Fees: No additional fees for standard transactions

Digital Wallets

• Apple Pay

  • Available on iOS devices
  • Tokenized secure transactions
  • Biometric verification
  • Transaction limits match credit card limits

• Google Pay

  • Available on Android devices
  • Secure token-based payments
  • Transaction limits match credit card limits

• Samsung Pay

  • Available on Samsung devices
  • Compatible with most payment terminals
  • Transaction limits match credit card limits

Bank Transfers

• Emirates NBD

  • Direct account integration
  • 0-1 business day processing
  • Maximum transfer: AED 100,000

• Dubai Islamic Bank

  • Secure banking portal
  • 0-1 business day processing
  • Maximum transfer: AED 100,000

• Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank

  • Online banking integration
  • 0-1 business day processing
  • Maximum transfer: AED 100,000

• Other UAE Banks

  • Standard bank transfer options
  • 1-2 business days processing
  • Limits vary by bank

Digital Payment Services

• PayPal

  • Buyer and seller protection
  • International payment support
  • Fees: 2.9% + fixed fee per transaction
  • Withdrawal to local bank in 2-3 business days

• Skrill

  • Fast digital transfers
  • Lower fees than some alternatives
  • Multiple currency support
  • Withdrawal to local bank in 2-3 business days

• Payoneer

  • Good for international transactions
  • Support for multiple currencies
  • Professional services payments
  • Withdrawal to local bank in 2-3 business days

In-Person Payment Methods

When meeting in person to complete a transaction, these payment methods are commonly used:

Cash Payments

• Most common for in-person transactions
• No processing fees
• Immediate transfer
• Counterfeiting risks
• Safety considerations for large amounts
• No automatic record of transaction

Mobile Payment Apps

• Samsung Pay / Apple Pay / Google Pay

  • Contactless payment option for in-person meetings
  • Digital receipt generated
  • Transaction limits apply based on your bank
  • Requires both parties to have compatible devices

• UAE Payment Apps

  • Apps like Beam Wallet, Etisalat Wallet, or Emirates NBD Pay
  • Instant transfers between users
  • Digital receipt generated
  • May require both parties to use the same app

Bank Cheques

• Suitable for larger transactions
• Processing time: 2-3 business days for clearing
• Provides paper record of transaction
• Both parties should verify identity
• Risk of insufficient funds

Payment for Premium Services

For platform services such as listing promotions and subscription packages:

Subscription Payment Options

• Credit/Debit cards (primary method)
• Digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
• Direct bank transfers (for annual subscriptions)
• PayPal (for international users)

Boost and Feature Payments

• Pre-paid credits
• Credit/Debit cards
• Digital wallets
• Account balance (if available)

Payment Security

Secure Transaction Tips

1. For online payments:

   • Always use the platform's secure payment system when available
   • Verify security certificates before entering payment details
   • Never share OTP or security codes with other users
   • Keep transaction records until completion

2. For in-person payments:

   • Meet in public, well-lit places (preferably near a bank for large amounts)
   • Bring someone with you for high-value transactions
   • Verify cash or payment method before handing over items
   • Consider using the platform's meeting points when available

Fraud Protection

To protect yourself from payment fraud:

• Never accept overpayment with a request to return the difference
• Be wary of requests to use unusual payment methods
• Don't agree to wire money to "shipping agents" or other third parties
• Verify bank transfers have cleared before releasing items
• Report suspicious payment activities to Aswaq support immediately

International Payments

For transactions with international buyers or sellers:

• Currency conversion: Automatically handled by payment processor
• Exchange rates: Set by payment provider at time of transaction
• International fees: May apply depending on payment method
• Recommended methods: PayPal, Skrill, or international credit cards
• Restrictions: Some payment methods may be limited by country

Refunds and Cancellations

Refund Processing

• Credit/Debit cards: 5-10 business days to appear on statement
• Digital wallets: 2-5 business days
• Bank transfers: 5-7 business days
• In-person cash: Arranged directly between parties

Cancellation Policy

• Orders cancelled before seller confirmation: Full refund
• Orders cancelled after seller confirmation: Platform policy applies
• Subscription cancellations: Pro-rated refunds based on usage
• Listing fee refunds: Non-refundable once listing is active

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I pay partially through the platform and partially in person?
A: No, each transaction should use a single payment method for clarity and security.

Q: Are there any additional fees for using credit cards?
A: No, Aswaq Online doesn't charge additional fees for standard credit card transactions.

Q: How do I know if a payment has been successfully processed?
A: You'll receive an email confirmation and notification in your account dashboard for all platform-processed payments.

Q: What should I do if a buyer claims they've paid but I haven't received the money?
A: Always verify that payment has cleared in your account before releasing any items. Contact support if there are discrepancies.

Q: Is it safe to accept direct bank transfers?
A: Bank transfers can be safe, but you should verify the funds have cleared in your account before completing the transaction. Be aware that bank transfers may be difficult to reverse in case of disputes.

Q: Can I use multiple payment methods for a single purchase?
A: Currently, Aswaq Online supports one payment method per transaction for clarity and record-keeping purposes.

Need More Help?

If you're experiencing issues with payments or have questions not covered in this guide, please contact our support team or visit our Help Center for more assistance.