Verto, the Nigerian-born B2B payments platform, has officially launched its operations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a move that signals a new era for African businesses engaging in trade with the Gulf region. With a strong track record of processing over $25 billion annually for global corporations such as Unilever and Maersk, Verto’s entry into the UAE aims to bridge a long-standing gap in cross-border payments between Africa and the Middle East. This expansion enhances financial efficiency for businesses operating along this critical trade corridor, including Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.
The UAE remains one of the most influential global trade hubs, and Verto’s entry is designed to provide the fast, transparent, and cost-effective payment solutions needed to support large-scale and time-sensitive business operations. Helen Ghebreluul, Verto’s UAE Country Manager, highlighted that the platform is purpose-built for dynamic markets where quick settlements and reliability are crucial. By providing high-value, cross-border transaction capabilities, Verto positions itself as more than a payments provider—it becomes a vital partner for businesses seeking to streamline financial operations across continents.
For Kenyan importers, exporters, and multinational firms with trade connections in the Gulf, Verto’s platform offers practical solutions to historical inefficiencies in cross-border payments. Businesses can now enjoy faster settlements, reduced foreign exchange risks, and complete transparency in payment tracking. From manufacturers in Nairobi’s Industrial Area to logistics companies operating through Mombasa Port, this innovation translates directly into better cash flow, improved supply chain reliability, and greater competitiveness in regional and international markets.
Among the platform’s standout features are instant or near-instant payment settlements, transparent foreign exchange rates with hedging options, and real-time transaction traceability. Businesses can also maintain multi-currency accounts, lock in favorable rates to mitigate currency volatility, and automate exchanges to secure optimal rates. According to Verto’s CEO and Co-founder, Ola Oyetayo, these tools empower enterprises to mitigate risks, accelerate financial processes, and enhance operational agility—key ingredients for growth in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Headquartered at the Emirates Financial Tower within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), Verto’s expansion is strategically positioned to strengthen trade connectivity between Africa and the Gulf. By combining global infrastructure with deep expertise in emerging markets, Verto is redefining how African and Gulf businesses move money—securely, efficiently, and at scale. This milestone reinforces the company’s commitment to building an interconnected global economy powered by innovative, technology-driven financial solutions.
