Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
For many years, Somali travelers faced a unique set of financial challenges shaped by the country’s turbulent history. The collapse of Somalia’s central banking and other financial system during the civil war, followed by decades of instability, left the nation without a formal financial infrastructure. In the absence of functioning banks and digital payment systems, Somali citizens developed informal methods to manage money especially when traveling abroad. Traditionally, traveling from Somalia meant relying heavily on cash and not cards. People would carry large sums of money tucked into their luggage or hidden in their clothing, exposing themselves to risks of theft, loss, or confiscation at borders. Booking flights and accommodations was often done through local travel agencies, which operated on cash payments and informal networks. There was little access to international financial services, and travelers had to depend on relatives abroad or hawala agents to help with currency exchange and emergency funds. This cash-based approach not only limited the safety and convenience of Somali travelers but also restricted their ability to fully engage with the global economy. Whether traveling for education, healthcare, business, or religious purposes, the lack of secure and modern financial tools created barriers to mobility and opportunity.
As Somalia continues to reconnect with the global economy, more Somali citizens are traveling abroad for tourism, healthcare, education, and business. Whether it’s a student heading to Malaysia, a patient seeking treatment in Turkey or india, or a businessperson attending a conference in Dubai/china, one thing is essential: access to reliable financial tools. Banking cards—especially those powered by international networks like VISA and Mastercard—are transforming how Somali travelers manage their finances abroad. However, Somalia is now undergoing a quiet financial revolution. With the emergence of banks like IBS Bank, and their partnerships with global payment networks such as VISA and Mastercard, Somali travelers are finally gaining access to internationally accepted banking cards. These cards offer a new level of freedom—allowing users to pay securely in foreign countries, withdraw local currency from ATMs, book services online, and manage their finances through mobile apps.
This shift from cash to cards is more than a technological upgrade; it’s a symbol of progress. It reflects Somalia’s re-entry into the global financial system and empowers its citizens to travel with confidence, security, and dignity. For Somali students, patients, entrepreneurs, and pilgrims, banking cards are no longer a luxury—they are essential tools for navigating the world.
Benefits of Banking Cards for Somali Travelers
Banking cards have revolutionized how Somali travelers manage their finances abroad. Instead of carrying large amounts of cash, travelers can now pay for hotels, flights, and restaurants with ease. Whether shopping online or in-store, VISA and Mastercard are widely accepted, and ATMs around the world allow Somali travelers to withdraw local currency whenever needed.
For those traveling for medical treatment, banking cards offer direct payment options to hospitals and clinics. They also support online bookings for appointments and tests, and can instantly cover emergency expenses. Premium cards go further by offering travel insurance and medical assistance services, providing peace of mind during health-related journeys.
Business travelers benefit from streamlined expense tracking and secure online payments for services, subscriptions, and logistics. Premium cards like VISA Infinite and World Elite Mastercard offer access to airport lounges and exclusive travel perks, helping Somali professionals operate more efficiently and comfortably on the global stage.
Students studying in countries such as India, Malaysia, Turkey, and across Europe can use banking cards to pay tuition fees and accommodation, subscribe to educational platforms, and receive financial support from family back home. These cards also help young travelers build financial discipline and independence.
For pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah and Hajj, banking cards simplify the journey. They enable cashless payments for accommodation, transportation, and food, and make it easy to book flights, buses, trains, and hotel packages. Travelers can also access Saudi Riyals from ATMs across Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah.
Modern banking cards also enhance safety and control. They offer fraud protection, emergency card replacement services, and real-time alerts and spending controls via mobile apps giving Somali travelers confidence and peace of mind wherever they go.
IBS Bank’s Role in Leading Somalia’s Card Revolution
IBS Bank has pioneered card services in Somalia, offering and has emerged as a key player in modernizing Somalia’s financial landscape, especially in empowering travelers. As the first bank in Somalia to offer international remittance services through Western Union and RIA, IBS Bank has also led the way in introducing globally accepted VISA and Mastercard products.
With instant card issuance available nationwide, Somalis can now access secure, internationally recognized banking cards without delay.
Also, they are now seeking more than just basic financial access, premium banking cards such as the VISA Infinite and World Elite Mastercard offer a suite of exclusive services that elevate the travel experience.
These cards provide airport lounge access, allowing travelers to relax in comfort during long layovers or delays. They also come with travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, lost luggage, and trip cancellations—critical support for those traveling for health or education.
cardholders benefit from concierge services, which assist with hotel bookings, restaurant reservations, and itinerary planning. This is especially valuable for Somali business travelers and pilgrims who need reliable support while navigating unfamiliar destinations.
With these VIP cards, Somali travelers are not just spending—they’re experiencing a higher standard of global mobility, backed by security, convenience, and personalized service.
By bridging Somalia with the global financial system, IBS Bank is helping Somali travelers move from cash dependency to digital confidence—making travel safer, smarter, and more connected.