Methods of payment are changing for customers in the UAE, with many now switching from cash to digital. In the first half of 2016, the number of du customers paying bills online through the telco’s faster Quick Pay service shot up nearly 50%, compared to the same period last year. Quick Pay is the latest addition to du’s range of hassle-free app and web-based payment options for customers on its ‘My Account’ online self-service tool. Over the course of 2106, du has seen a 20% overall increase in customers managing and paying for services with My Account via du App and du.ae.

Carlos Domingo, Chief New Business and Innovation Officer, du, said: “Over reliance on cash is one of the UAE’s biggest barriers to building the digital economy and capitalising on the digital revolution. Local companies need to work harder to encourage consumers to pay online, it’s about making payments fast, safe and simple to use – that’s what we’ve focused on at du and that’s why more of our customers are paying online.”

du has invested heavily in its My Account self-service tool so customers can perform essential transactions with the swipe of a screen or click of a mouse. In addition to My Account’s express ‘no log in required’ Quick Pay service, customers can set up auto-payments and auto-recharges for an even easier way to stay connected.

My Account now offers added transparency, allowing customers to manage spending by setting data usage limits and viewing bill history, as well as showing live data, SMS and call usage. Over the past year over 50 new functionalities have been added to My Account, saving thousands from queuing in stores and call centres every day.

Carlos added: “User experience is fast becoming be the key differentiator for businesses in the digital age. We see our digital channels like du App as a great opportunity to address customer pain points, helping them carry out essential transactions in the least amount of time and with the least amount of effort.”