As e-commerce continues to grow in the world of technology, businesses are focusing more on providing selling online with a smooth and secure shopping experience.
With more people shopping online, choosing the right payment gateway is more important than ever.
A reliable payment gateway helps ensure safe and easy transactions for both you and your customers. Whether you’re just starting your online store or expanding an existing one, understanding the best payment options in the UAE will help you stay competitive and offer the best experience for your customers.
What is a Payment Gateway?
Payment gateway is an online payment service which can be integrated into an ecommerce platform to collect payments. In simple terms, it is basically a connection service that connects your bank account to the platform where you need to transfer money.
It serves as the go-between for the customer, business, and payment processor. This entails providing a payment portal or checkout page for customers to submit their payment details, encrypting this sensitive data and passing it on to the payment processor or bank.
Payment gateways are generally provided by banks as well as specialized financial institutions. These days, users can make payments with debit or credit cards, UPI, online wallets, digital currencies etc.
Types of Payment Gateways
Payment gateways are essential tools in today’s digital economy, enabling online transactions and electronic payments.
There are four main types of payment gateways.
- Hosted Payment Gateways
- Self-hosted Payment Gateways
- API-hosted Payment Gateways
- Local bank Integration Gateways
Hosted Payment Gateways
Hosted payment gateways are widely recognized for their simplicity, security, and robust PCI compliance, ensuring adherence to the highest industry standards for data protection and security. This makes them a preferred choice for businesses seeking to safeguard sensitive financial information.
By outsourcing payment processing to a reliable third-party provider, organizations can leverage the provider’s advanced security infrastructure and specialized expertise, effectively reducing the risk of data breaches and fraud. Hosted gateways support a broad range of payment methods, including major credit and debit cards, as well as popular digital wallets like PayPal and Amazon Pay, offering flexibility to accommodate a global customer base. This capability enhances the accessibility of products and services.
Additionally, hosted gateways offer seamless integration with existing websites and shopping carts via plugins and APIs, significantly simplifying the implementation process and reducing the technical complexity often associated with payment processing. This ensures a smooth and efficient checkout experience for customers, while providing businesses with the security, scalability, and convenience needed to thrive in the dynamic e-commerce landscape.”
Self-hosted Payment Gateways
Self-hosted payment gateways, also known as non-hosted gateways, provide businesses with greater control and flexibility over their payment processing systems. Unlike hosted gateways, which redirect customers to third-party payment pages, self-hosted solutions enable businesses to collect and encrypt payment information directly on their websites, ensuring a seamless, branded checkout experience.
A key benefit of self-hosted gateways is the level of control usually they offer. Businesses can fully customize the payment process to align with their specific needs and branding, creating a more personalized and consistent experience for customers. This customization is particularly advantageous for larger organizations or those with complex checkout workflows. However, self-hosted gateways come with increased responsibility. Merchants are required to manage PCI compliance, implement robust security measures, and handle ongoing system updates and maintenance to ensure the payment process remains secure and efficient.
As a result, self-hosted gateways are best suited for businesses that have the technical capabilities and resources to effectively manage these responsibilities.
API-hosted Payment Gateways
API-hosted payment gateways offer a highly flexible solution for businesses seeking to balance customization, security, and ease of integration. Unlike traditional hosted gateways, which redirect customers to a third-party payment page, or self-hosted gateways that require direct handling of sensitive payment data, API-hosted gateways provide a middle ground. These solutions enable businesses to build and customize their own payment processes directly within their websites or applications, while still benefiting from the robust security and expertise provided by the gateway provider.
From a technical perspective, API-hosted gateways allow developers to seamlessly integrate payment functionality into the existing digital infrastructure. This customization allows businesses to tailor the payment flow to meet their unique requirements, ensuring that the experience remains cohesive and on-brand, which ultimately enhances the customer’s journey with a familiar and intuitive checkout process.
However, implementing and maintaining API-hosted gateways requires a certain level of technical expertise. Businesses must ensure proper integration, handle regular system updates, manage changes to the payment process, and maintain PCI compliance. This means that companies utilizing API-hosted gateways need to have the technical resources to manage these ongoing responsibilities effectively. For businesses that prioritize both the security of payment transactions and the flexibility to adapt their payment solutions to their specific needs, API-hosted gateways provide an optimal solution. They offer a powerful combination of customization and security, making them an ideal choice for organizations looking to maintain control over the user experience while leveraging the specialized security infrastructure and expertise of trusted payment providers. In today’s fast-evolving e-commerce landscape, API-hosted gateways represent an adaptable and secure solution that aligns well with dynamic business needs.
Local bank Integration Gateways
Direct or local bank integration gateways offer a straightforward and cost-efficient solution for merchants looking to process online payments directly through their banking institution. This direct integration can result in lower processing costs and more efficient payment flows by eliminating the need for intermediaries.
One of the key benefits of local bank integration gateways is their affordability. Unlike third-party payment gateways, which often involve additional transaction fees and monthly service charges, these solutions enable businesses to establish a direct connection with their bank, bypassing extra costs. Furthermore, many local banks are open to negotiating transaction fees, which can be particularly advantageous for high-volume merchants looking to reduce operational expenses.
However, it’s important to note that local bank integration gateways may not offer the same extensive range of features or services as more comprehensive third-party payment gateways. Additionally, these gateways are often limited to specific regions or countries, making them more suitable for businesses with a primarily local customer base. For merchants seeking a simple, budget-friendly, and regionally focused payment processing solution, local bank integration gateways provide an efficient and viable option, particularly when minimizing operational costs is a priority.
How does the Payment Gateway Application Work?
While each payment gateway is different, the following steps are more or less what happens during a typical online payment:
- Once the user presses the checkout button, they are redirected to the payment gateway, where relevant information needs to be entered.
- Users will be directed to a secure banking page to authorize the transaction (mostly with OTP).
- The transaction is completed if the user has sufficient funds in their account.
Finally, the user gets a confirmation message of a successful transaction, and their order is placed.
How to create a payment gateway?
The specific steps to create a payment gateway will depend on your business needs, but most businesses will use a process like the following.
1. Create your payment gateway infrastructure. You’ll need a server to host your gateway, whether it’s your own or via a third party. If you’re using your own server, your server environment should be PCI DSS Compliance which will ensure security, auditing and transaction between various stakeholders.
2. Choose a payment processor. A payment gateway works hand in hand with a processor to complete online transactions. This could be a financial institution, a card network, or an independent processor. In any case, you’ll need to ask for the processor’s API documentation and follow implementation instructions. You’ll also need to develop an external API that will facilitate the transfer of client payment data.
3. Create or use a customer relationship management (CRM) system. With the nuts and bolts of payment processing in place, you need to think about crafting a custom tool for managing transactions and client data. A good CRM system is an organized customer database, helping keep clients and their preferred payment and contact details in one place.
4. Implement security features. One thing to keep in mind is that when you create your own payment gateway, you’re responsible for all cardholder data. As such, it’s extremely important to implement tools like tokenization that keep credit card data separate from your online store’s server. Tokenization replaces credit card numbers with anonymous tokens. You’ll also need to follow all PCI DSS standards if you’re handling credit cards. 5. Obtain required certifications. Apart from PCI auditing, you must apply for a 3DS certification from EMV (Europay, Mastercard, Visa). This international certification is required to process customer bank cards containing a chip.
Benefits of Using Payment Gateways
Customer experience: Payment gateways contribute to an improved customer experience. They provide a seamless and convenient checkout process, reducing friction for shoppers. Customers can make purchases with various payment methods, promoting inclusivity.
Simpler transactions: Auto-generated reports simplify financial management for users. Businesses can easily access transaction records, financial summaries, and other critical data, facilitating better decision-making and financial planning.
Security: Security is paramount. Payment gateways implement robust encryption and fraud prevention measures, safeguarding sensitive financial data. This security fosters trust among customers and businesses alike which is essential in an increasingly digital world.
Easy integration: Payment gateways do not require special user deployment, making integration seamless. They can be easily incorporated into existing systems and websites, minimizing disruption and saving valuable time and resources.
Quicker transactions: Payment gateways enable quicker processing of transactions. Payments are processed in real time, reducing delays and enhancing operational efficiency. This is particularly crucial for e-commerce businesses aiming to provide prompt services to their customers.
Expansion: Business expansion is another significant benefit. Payment gateways allow companies to tap into global markets by accepting international payments. This can fuel growth and increase revenue streams.
Setting up a payment gateway makes your business trustworthy besides making the whole shopping experience easy. At the same time, there are many payment gateway solutions out there, and it is challenging to choose one for your business.
we have analyzed and listed the 10 best payment gateways with their pros, cons, and all other details you need to know.
- Stripe
- CashU
- Checkout
- 2Checkout
- CCAvenue
- Cybersource
- PayTabs
- Paycaps
- Hyperpay
- Skrill
Stripe
Stripe is a popular payment gateway solution that lets businesses accept payments and send payouts globally.
Stripe is a global payment gateway and financial services platform that enables businesses of all sizes to accept online payments. Founded in 2010 by brothers Patrick and John Collison(US), Stripe provides a seamless, developer-friendly solution for handling credit card transactions, digital wallets, bank transfers, and more. It is widely recognized for its advanced APIs, ease of integration, and global reach, serving businesses ranging from startups to large enterprises across many industries.
The solution powers payments for online retailers, subscription businesses, marketplaces, software platforms, and in-person retailers. The platform also has innovative features to beat fraud, share invoices, issue physical or virtual cards, manage finances, and much more.
Some notable features are
Wide Payment Method Support: Stripe allows businesses to accept payments from a variety of methods, including credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), Apple Pay, Google Pay, ACH transfers, and international payment methods.
Multi-Currency Support: Stripe supports payments in over 135 currencies, making it an ideal solution for businesses with global customers.
Advanced Fraud Protection: Stripe integrates machine learning-powered tools and 3D Secure to detect and prevent fraud, offering additional layers of protection for transactions.
Recurring Billing and Subscriptions: Stripe makes it easy to set up subscription-based payments and recurring billing, ideal for SaaS and subscription services.
Seamless Mobile Payments: With its mobile SDKs, Stripe enables mobile-friendly payment processing for businesses with iOS and Android apps.
Customizable Checkout: Stripe offers pre-built checkout pages or fully customizable ones, allowing businesses to tailor the payment experience to match their branding.
Real-Time Reporting: Stripe provides detailed analytics and reporting tools for monitoring transactions, understanding cash flow, and making data-driven decisions.
Developer-Friendly API: Stripe is known for its easy-to-use API, enabling developers to quickly integrate payment systems into custom websites or apps.
Available integration options are
API Integration: Stripe’s robust API allows businesses to integrate payments into their websites, apps, or platforms with full control over the payment experience. Developers can customize the entire process to suit their needs.
Stripe Checkout: Stripe provides a pre-built, customizable payment page (Stripe Checkout) that businesses can use for quick integration, offering a secure and easy-to-implement solution.
E-Commerce Platform Plugins: Stripe offers easy integration with popular platforms like WooCommerce, Shopify, Magento, and BigCommerce through pre-built plugins.
Mobile SDKs: Stripe offers SDKs for both iOS and Android, making it easy to integrate payment processing into mobile applications for in-app purchases and mobile payments.
Billing & Subscription API: For businesses offering subscriptions, Stripe’s Billing API simplifies managing recurring payments, customer subscriptions, and invoicing.
Prices and plans offered
Stripe’s pricing is transparent and usage-based, making it affordable for businesses of all sizes. Below is a general overview:
Transaction Fees:
- Domestic Transactions: Stripe charges 2.9% + 30¢ per successful card transaction for U.S.-based businesses.
- International Transactions: For international cards, Stripe charges 3.9% + 30¢ per transaction, plus an additional 1% for currency conversion.
- ACH Payments: ACH direct debit payments are typically 0.8% per transaction, with a cap of $5 per transaction.
Setup Fees:
- Stripe does not charge any setup or monthly maintenance fees. It operates on a pay-as-you-go model, with fees only for the payments processed.
Monthly Fees:
- Stripe does not charge monthly fees for its core payment processing services. However, businesses may incur additional costs for premium features like Stripe Atlas (for company incorporation) or Stripe Radar (for advanced fraud protection).
Other Fees:
- Chargeback Fees: If a chargeback occurs, Stripe charges a fee of $15 per chargeback (which can be refunded if the merchant wins the dispute).
- Currency Conversion Fee: If the business is accepting payments in a different currency, Stripe applies a 2% fee for currency conversion.
- Issuing Cards: Stripe offers a service for issuing physical and virtual cards, which typically costs around $2 per card issued.
Ideal payment gateway for businesses looking for an easy-to-integrate, secure, and scalable solution to handle online payments. With a wide range of supported payment methods, flexible integration options, and competitive pricing, Stripe is suitable for startups, e-commerce platforms, SaaS companies, and large enterprises. Its powerful APIs, and robust fraud protection features make it one of the top choices for businesses worldwide.
CashU
CashU is a pioneer online payment solution in the Middle East. Began solely to serve customers, it is now one of the most preferred solutions in Europe as well. It is famous for security and modern fraud prevention AML systems.
Launched in 2002, CashU offers a secure and easy-to-use online payment platform, enabling businesses to accept payments via various methods including credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and local payment options.
In addition, CashU guarantees every transaction without the risk of chargeback. However, you will need to pay a setup fee and security deposit to implement CashU. The annual fee is charged based on the volume of sales.
Some notable features are
Multiple Payment Methods: CashU supports a variety of payment options such as credit/debit cards, CashU prepaid cards, local bank transfers, and regional payment methods popular in the MENA region.
Secure Transactions: CashU uses advanced encryption and security protocols to ensure secure online transactions and protect both merchants and consumers.
Localized Payment Options: It supports local payment methods and currencies in the MENA region, helping businesses cater to regional customers who prefer non-international payment methods.
User-Friendly Interface: It offers a simple, easy-to-use payment system, making it accessible even to customers with minimal technical knowledge.
Multi-Currency Support: CashU supports multiple currencies, allowing businesses to accept payments from international customers.
Recurring Billing: For businesses with subscription models, it offers recurring billing capabilities to automate payment collections.
Mobile Optimization: The platform is optimized for mobile, enabling a smooth and secure payment experience on smartphones and tablets.
Real-Time Reporting: Provides real-time transaction reporting and analytics, allowing merchants to track payments and manage their finances effectively.
Available integration options are
API Integration: Offers an API for businesses looking to integrate payment processing directly into their websites or mobile apps. This option provides flexibility for developers to customize the payment experience.
Hosted Payment Pages: For businesses seeking a simpler solution, CashU provides secure hosted payment pages. These pages are easy to implement and reduce the need for extensive technical integration.
E-Commerce Platform Plugins: Integration with popular e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce, Magento, and PrestaShop through pre-built plugins, making it easy for online stores to accept payments.
Mobile SDKs: Enabling businesses to accept payments within iOS and Android apps for a smooth in-app payment experience.
Prices and plans offered
Flexible pricing structure based on the volume and type of transaction. Here’s a general overview of its pricing:
Transaction Fees:
- Domestic Transactions: For payments made within the MENA region, CashU charges a fee of approximately 2.5% to 3% per transaction, depending on the payment method used (credit card, bank transfer, etc.).
- International Transactions: For cross-border payments, fees can range between 3.5% to 4% per transaction, depending on the country of origin and the currency involved.
Setup Fees:
- CashU generally does not charge setup fees for standard merchant accounts. However, for businesses requiring customized solutions, additional fees may apply.
Monthly Fees:
- CashU typically does not charge monthly maintenance fees for basic accounts. Custom solutions or enterprise-level accounts with higher transaction volumes may have monthly fees based on the service package.
Other Fees:
- Currency Conversion Fee: If a business accepts payments in different currencies, CashU may charge a currency conversion fee, usually around 2% to 3% above the exchange rate.
- Chargeback Fees: In the case of chargebacks, CashU may charge a fee of approximately $10 to $20 per chargeback, depending on the specifics of the dispute.
- Withdrawal Fees: CashU charges a fee for transferring funds to a bank account, generally ranging from $5 to $15 depending on the country and withdrawal method.
In short, CashU is a reliable and flexible payment gateway catering to businesses in the MENA region and beyond, offering a wide range of payment options including local and international methods. Its easy integration options (API, hosted payment pages, e-commerce plugins, and mobile SDKs) make it a good choice for businesses of all sizes.
Checkout
Checkout is an international payment gateway system popular for seamless transactions. It comes with a range of customizable solutions that provide valuable insights and adapt to specific markets.
Currently, Checkout is one of the most popular payment gateway solutions. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Dubai, Checkout.com is renowned for its high-performance payment solutions, serving a wide range of industries, including e-commerce, travel, gaming, and digital services. Easy integration methods, and simple setup.
The gateway is designed to handle complex, large-scale payment operations while providing seamless integration and an excellent user experience for both merchants and customers.
Some notable features are
Global Payment Acceptance: Checkout.com supports over 150 currencies and more than 100 payment methods, including credit and debit cards, digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay), bank transfers, and local payment options.
Advanced Fraud Protection: The platform uses machine learning algorithms, 3D Secure 2, and other security measures to prevent fraud and ensure safe transactions for businesses and customers.
Real-Time Analytics & Reporting: Checkout.com offers powerful reporting and analytics tools that provide real-time insights into transaction data, helping businesses track payments, optimize revenue, and manage operations efficiently.
Recurring Billing: The gateway supports subscription-based businesses by offering features like recurring billing and automatic payment collection, making it ideal for SaaS businesses and membership models.
Customizable Checkout Pages: Businesses can fully customize their checkout pages to align with their branding, ensuring a seamless and consistent experience for their customers.
Mobile Optimization: The platform is optimized for mobile payments, providing a smooth and secure payment experience on smartphones and tablets.
Payment Gateway API: Checkout.com provides an easy-to-integrate API for developers, allowing businesses to integrate payment processing into their websites, mobile apps, or platforms with full flexibility.
Tokenization: Ensures that sensitive customer data is securely stored, reducing the risk of fraud and data breaches.
Prices and plans offered
Checkout.com follows a transparent pricing model with flexible fees based on transaction volume, business needs, and geographic region. Here’s a general overview of its pricing:
Transaction Fees:
- Domestic Transactions: Typically, Checkout.com charges 2.9% + 30¢ per successful card transaction (similar to other payment gateways).
- International Transactions: For cross-border payments, the fee is usually higher, around 3.9% + 30¢, depending on the payment method and the customer’s country.
- Alternative Payment Methods (APMs): Fees for using digital wallets and other alternative payment methods may vary but generally fall within the same range as credit card payments (around 3% to 4%).
Setup Fees:
- Checkout.com does not charge setup fees for standard accounts. However, businesses requiring custom solutions or high-volume accounts may have negotiated pricing and additional setup fees depending on the complexity of their needs.
Monthly Fees:
- Typically, Checkout.com does not charge monthly fees for its basic services. However, enterprise customers with high transaction volumes or requiring specialized services may have customized pricing that includes monthly fees.
Other Fees:
- Chargeback Fees: If a chargeback occurs, Checkout.com charges around $15 to $30 per chargeback, depending on the situation.
- Currency Conversion Fee: For businesses accepting payments in multiple currencies, Checkout.com applies a 2% fee for currency conversion.
Available integration options are
API Integration: Checkout.com offers a powerful and flexible API that allows businesses to integrate payments directly into their websites, mobile apps, or platforms. The API is developer-friendly, making it easy to tailor the payment process.
Hosted Checkout Pages: For businesses looking for a quicker setup, Checkout.com provides customizable hosted payment pages, which are secure and easy to implement without needing extensive technical resources.
E-Commerce Platform Plugins: Checkout.com integrates with popular e-commerce platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, and BigCommerce, enabling businesses to accept payments on their existing stores with minimal setup
Mobile SDK. Take charge of your mobile checkout experience with our iOS and Android Mobile SDKs. Get all the benefits of Checkout.com ’s core products through a native approach.
Checkout.com is a powerful and versatile payment gateway suitable for businesses looking for a high-performance, secure, and scalable solution. With support for over 150 currencies, a variety of payment methods, and customizable integration options (API, hosted pages, e-commerce plugins, and mobile SDKs), Checkout.com is ideal for businesses in industries such as e-commerce, travel, and digital services.
2Checkout
2Checkout (now Verifone) is a global online payment processing platform that enables businesses to accept payments from customers worldwide. It offers a wide range of payment methods including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and local payment options. With a focus on international reach, 2Checkout provides a seamless checkout experience for both merchants and customers.
Some notable features are
Global Payment Acceptance: Supports transactions in over 200 countries with multiple currencies.
Multiple Payment Methods: Accepts credit/debit cards, PayPal, local payment methods, and digital wallets.
Subscription Billing: Enables businesses to manage recurring billing for subscription-based models.
Fraud Prevention: Advanced fraud protection tools to help safeguard transactions.
Customizable Checkout: Flexible options for customizing checkout pages to match your brand.
Multi-Language Support: Available in several languages, enhancing customer experience across different regions.
Seamless Integration: Easy integration with various shopping carts, platforms, and APIs.
Payment Integration options are
API Integration: Developers can integrate 2Checkout into their websites using RESTful APIs for customized payment experiences.
Hosted Checkout Pages: Pre-built and customizable payment pages that handle payments securely without the need for extensive technical setup.
Shopping Cart Integration: Pre-built integrations with popular shopping cart solutions like WooCommerce, Shopify, and Magento for quick setup.
Mobile SDKs: Integrate payments into mobile applications with the mobile SDKs available for iOS and Android.
2Checkout provides an easy and secure way for businesses to expand their reach globally while offering customers a smooth and reliable payment experience.
Latest plans and prices are [Products]
CCAvenue
CCAvenue offering businesses a secure and flexible solution for accepting online payments. It supports a wide variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, net banking, wallets, and UPI, making it one of the most comprehensive and versatile gateways in the local market. CCAvenue provides businesses with the tools to expand their reach, process transactions securely, and manage payments effectively in both domestic and international markets.
Some notable features are
Multi-Payment Options: Accepts payments via credit/debit cards, net banking, mobile wallets, UPI, and more.
International Payment Support: Enables businesses to accept payments in over 27 currencies, facilitating global transactions.
Fraud Detection: Advanced fraud protection tools, including 3D Secure, to ensure secure transactions and reduce chargeback risks.
Multi-Language and Multi-Currency Support: Offers checkout pages in multiple languages and supports a wide range of currencies, helping businesses serve international customers.
Recurring Billing: Provides subscription-based billing for businesses with recurring payment models.
Customizable Checkout: Fully customizable payment page designs that align with the merchant’s brand identity.
Mobile Optimized: Provides a mobile-friendly payment interface, improving the experience for customers on smartphones and tablets.
Robust Reporting: Real-time transaction reports and detailed analytics help merchants track payments and monitor financial performance.
Integration with E-Commerce Platforms: Compatible with popular shopping carts and CMS platforms like WooCommerce, Magento, PrestaShop, and more.
Available integration options are
API Integration: CCAvenue provides a comprehensive API that can be integrated into custom websites or apps for a fully tailored payment experience.
Hosted Payment Pages: A simple solution for businesses that prefer a quicker setup without much technical work. CCAvenue’s hosted payment pages are secure, customizable, and easy to implement.
Plugins for E-Commerce Platforms: Pre-built plugins for popular platforms like WooCommerce, Magento, Shopify, and OpenCart allow businesses to integrate CCAvenue quickly and without the need for extensive technical expertise.
Mobile SDKs: For mobile app developers, CCAvenue offers SDKs for iOS and Android, providing seamless in-app payment processing.
Payment Gateway Pages: Businesses can also integrate customizable payment gateway pages directly into their checkout process.
Prices and plans offered
Pricing structure is very flexible and depending on transaction volume, payment methods, and the type of business, but here’s a general overview:
- Setup Fees:
- Standard Setup: No setup fee for small and medium-sized businesses.
- Customized Solutions: For large enterprises, CCAvenue may charge a one-time setup fee for tailored payment solutions.
- Transaction Fees:
- Domestic Transactions: Typically, CCAvenue charges around 2% to 3% per transaction for domestic payments, depending on the type of payment method used (cards, UPI, net banking).
- International Transactions: For payments in foreign currencies, the fee can range from 3% to 5%, depending on the payment method and the country of origin.
- Monthly Fees:
- CCAvenue generally does not charge a monthly maintenance fee, though this may vary depending on the agreement with larger businesses or enterprises.
- Other Fees:
- Currency Conversion Fees: If the business accepts international payments in different currencies, CCAvenue charges a currency conversion fee, usually around 3% above the exchange rate.
- Chargeback Fees: Chargeback handling fees are depending on the severity and case specifics.
Overall, it is a robust, feature-rich payment gateway ideal for businesses looking to cater to both local and international customers. With its extensive support for payment methods, competitive pricing, and versatile integration options, it is well-suited for businesses of all sizes. Its ability to accept payments in various currencies, coupled with strong fraud protection, makes it a reliable choice for merchants seeking a secure and efficient payment processing solution.
Cybersource
Cybersource is an American payment gateway established in 1994. In November 2007, Visa Inc. acquired it for $565 million, along with the U.S. small business payment services provider, Authorize.net.
As a global payment gateway and fraud management service that provides businesses with a secure and efficient way to process online payments. It offers a wide range of payment solutions, including credit/debit card processing, digital wallets, and localized payment methods, all backed by robust fraud prevention tools. As part of Visa, CyberSource has a strong reputation for reliability, security, and scalability, making it a trusted choice for businesses around the world.
Some notable features are
Global Payment Acceptance: Supports payments in over 190 countries and territories, and accepts multiple currencies, offering global reach.
Wide Payment Methods: Enables businesses to accept payments through credit/debit cards, digital wallets (like Apple Pay and Google Pay), bank transfers, and other local payment methods.
Advanced Fraud Prevention: Offers a comprehensive suite of fraud detection tools, including machine learning-based risk scoring, address verification system (AVS), and 3D Secure, to reduce chargebacks and fraudulent transactions.
Recurring Billing: CyberSource supports subscription-based billing for businesses with recurring payment models.
Seamless Mobile Integration: Fully optimized for mobile payments, allowing businesses to accept payments seamlessly on smartphones and tablets.
Payment Analytics and Reporting: Offers real-time transaction monitoring and detailed reporting features to help businesses track performance and analyze payment data.
Tokenization: Provides tokenization for secure, recurring payments by replacing sensitive card data with tokens, reducing the risk of fraud.
Comprehensive API: Developers can integrate CyberSource into their platforms with robust APIs, allowing for tailored and customized payment solutions.
Available integration options are
API Integration: CyberSource offers RESTful APIs, which allow businesses to fully integrate their payment processing needs into their websites or apps. This option provides flexibility and customization for various business models.
Hosted Payment Pages: For businesses that want a simpler, less technical solution, CyberSource provides hosted payment pages that can be easily linked to, handling payment processing securely.
E-Commerce Platform Plugins: CyberSource integrates with major shopping cart platforms like WooCommerce, Magento, and Shopify, providing easy and quick integration for online stores.
Mobile SDKs: Developers can use CyberSource’s SDKs to integrate payments into mobile apps, ensuring smooth and secure payment processing for mobile users.
Prices and plans offered
It’s pricing is based on a pay-per-transaction model, with the costs varying depending on the type of transaction, payment methods, and the volume of payments processed. Below is a general comparison:
Transaction Fees:
- Domestic Transactions: Typically, CyberSource charges around 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction for domestic credit/debit card payments.
- International Transactions: For cross-border payments, fees can range from 3.5% to 4.5%, depending on the currency and payment method.
Setup Fees:
- Account Setup: CyberSource generally does not charge a setup fee for basic payment gateway accounts. However, customized enterprise solutions may incur additional setup costs.
Monthly Fees:
- Monthly Gateway Fee: CyberSource typically charges a monthly fee ranging from $10 to $25, depending on the volume and type of service required. This fee can vary for enterprise-level clients.
Additional Fees:
- Fraud Prevention Tools: Depending on the level of fraud protection required, businesses may incur additional fees for fraud management services.
- Currency Conversion Fee: CyberSource charges a currency conversion fee, typically around 3% above the exchange rate for international payments.
- Chargeback Fees: Chargeback handling fees are generally around $15 to $25 per case, depending on the agreement and the nature of the dispute.
Other Fees:
- Payment Tokenization: Some features like tokenization may incur an additional fee, typically depending on the business’s usage.
It’s a powerful and secure payment gateway suitable for businesses of all sizes that require global payment acceptance, strong fraud protection, and robust reporting tools. Its integration options, including APIs, hosted payment pages, and platform plugins, make it easy to implement across various business models. While pricing can vary based on transaction volume and business needs, CyberSource’s competitive fees and enterprise-level features make it a top choice for companies looking for a reliable, scalable payment solution.
Paytabs
Paytabs payment gateway solution, designed to provide businesses with a secure and efficient way to process online payments. It is especially popular in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region but also supports international transactions.
It was founded in 2014 in Saudi Arabia and has quickly become a trusted payment solution provider in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The company focuses on simplifying payment processing for businesses and supporting both regional and international transactions.
PayTabs offers a wide range of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, bank transfers, digital wallets, and local payment options. It is well-known for its user-friendly interface, high security standards, and customizable solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Some notable features are
Multi-Payment Method Support: Accepts payments via credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard), digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay), local payment methods, and bank transfers.
Global Reach: Supports payments in multiple currencies, helping businesses serve customers worldwide.
Fraud Prevention: Advanced fraud detection features, including 3D Secure, real-time monitoring, and encryption for secure transactions.
Recurring Billing: Supports subscription-based businesses with recurring billing and automatic payment collection.
Mobile Optimization: Fully responsive, mobile-optimized payment interface, enhancing the user experience for mobile shoppers.
Multi-Language & Multi-Currency Support: Available in several languages and accepts payments in over 160 currencies, making it ideal for global businesses.
Customizable Checkout: Offers businesses the ability to customize payment pages to align with their branding, providing a seamless user experience.
Robust Reporting & Analytics: Real-time transaction reports, analytics, and dashboards to help businesses track and manage payments efficiently.
Available Integration options are
API Integration: PayTabs provides a powerful API for developers to integrate the payment gateway into custom websites and mobile applications, offering full flexibility for businesses.
Hosted Payment Pages: For businesses that prefer a simple setup, PayTabs offers secure hosted payment pages that handle the transaction process, reducing the need for technical expertise.
E-Commerce Platform Plugins: PayTabs integrates with major e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce, Shopify, Magento, and OpenCart, providing quick and easy integration for online stores.
Mobile SDKs: Developers can use PayTabs’ SDKs to integrate payments directly into iOS and Android apps for a smooth in-app payment experience.
Prices and plans offered
PayTabs offer a transparent, competitive pricing model that is tailored to different business needs and transaction volumes. Here’s a general comparison of its pricing:
Transaction Fees:
- Domestic Transactions: Fees generally range from 2.5% to 3.5% per transaction, depending on the type of payment method (cards, bank transfers, etc.).
- International Transactions: Fees for cross-border payments are typically between 3.5% and 4.5%, depending on the currency and location of the customer.
Setup Fees:
- PayTabs offers a free standard setup for businesses. However, there may be charges for customized solutions or higher-volume accounts.
Monthly Fees:
- PayTabs charges no monthly maintenance fees for standard accounts. Custom pricing may apply for enterprise-level solutions or businesses with high transaction volumes.
Other Fees:
- Currency Conversion Fee: If businesses accept payments in multiple currencies, a conversion fee of approximately 2% to 3% may apply.
- Chargeback Fees: PayTabs typically charges around $25 per chargeback, depending on the specific case.
- Withdrawal Fees: Fees for withdrawing funds to a bank account can range from $5 to $20, depending on the region.
It’s a versatile payment gateway that caters to businesses in the MENA region and globally, offering a wide range of payment methods and a robust, secure platform. With easy integration options, including API, hosted pages, and plugins for popular e-commerce platforms, PayTabs is a great option for businesses looking to streamline their payment processing. Its competitive pricing and focus on fraud protection, mobile optimization, and multi-currency support make it a reliable choice for businesses looking to expand their online payment capabilities.
Paycaps
PayChttps://www.paycaps.com/aps is a payment gateway solution designed to provide businesses with a secure and efficient way to process online payments, catering primarily to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It supports a wide range of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, digital wallets, and local payment options, allowing businesses to serve both regional and global customers. It’s aims to simplify payment processing with easy integration, strong security measures, and a focus on customer support for businesses of all sizes.
PayCaps is a relatively new player in the payment gateway industry, primarily focused on providing solutions for businesses in the Middle East, North Africa, and surrounding regions. The company aims to bridge the gap in the market by offering a simple, secure, and effective way to process online payments, focusing on local payment methods alongside global options.
Some notable features are
Multi-Payment Method Support: PayCaps allows businesses to accept payments through credit/debit cards, digital wallets (like Apple Pay, Google Pay), bank transfers, and local payment options in various regions.
Global Payment Acceptance: Supports transactions in multiple currencies and countries, making it suitable for businesses targeting international markets.
Fraud Protection: Advanced fraud prevention features, including 3D Secure, encryption, and real-time transaction monitoring, to ensure secure payments and reduce the risk of fraud.
Recurring Billing: Ideal for businesses with subscription models, offering automated recurring billing and payment collection features.
Mobile-Friendly: Fully optimized for mobile devices, ensuring a smooth payment experience for customers shopping via smartphones and tablets.
Customizable Checkout: Businesses can customize payment pages to match their branding, providing a seamless experience for users.
Comprehensive Reporting: Real-time reporting and analytics to track transaction history, manage payments, and optimize business operations.
Available Integration options are
API Integration: PayCaps offers an API that allows businesses to integrate the payment gateway into custom websites and mobile apps, offering full flexibility and control over the payment experience.
Hosted Payment Pages: For businesses that need a quick and secure setup, PayCaps provides hosted payment pages that can be easily linked to a website, allowing for simplified integration.
E-Commerce Platform Plugins: PayCaps integrates with popular e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce, Magento, and Shopify, making it easy to implement on existing online stores.
Mobile SDKs: PayCaps also provides SDKs for iOS and Android apps, enabling businesses to accept mobile payments seamlessly within their mobile applications.
Prices and plans offered
PayCaps follows a competitive pricing model designed to cater to various business sizes and needs. Below is an overview of its pricing:
Transaction Fees:
- Domestic Transactions: Typically, PayCaps charges around 2.5% to 3% per transaction for domestic payments made via credit cards, debit cards, or bank transfers.
- International Transactions: For cross-border payments, fees generally range between 3.5% and 4.5%, depending on the payment method and currency.
Setup Fees:
- PayCaps offers free setup for standard merchant accounts. However, custom solutions or enterprise-level accounts may incur additional setup charges.
Monthly Fees:
- PayCaps generally does not charge a monthly maintenance fee for standard accounts, although larger businesses with high transaction volumes may negotiate custom pricing.
Other Fees:
- Currency Conversion Fee: PayCaps may charge a currency conversion fee of 2% to 3% for international transactions.
- Chargeback Fees: If a chargeback occurs, PayCaps charges around $25 per instance, depending on the specific situation.
- Withdrawal Fees: Withdrawal fees for transferring funds to a bank account typically range from $5 to $15, depending on the country.
PayCaps is an up-and-coming payment gateway solution, focusing on providing businesses in the MENA region and globally with secure, flexible payment processing options. With support for various payment methods, strong fraud protection, and seamless integration options (including APIs, hosted pages, and e-commerce platform plugins), PayCaps is an attractive choice for businesses looking to streamline their online payments. Its competitive pricing structure and focus on customer service make it a solid choice for businesses aiming to expand their payment processing capabilities.
Hyperpay
HyperPay provide a comprehensive payment gateway solution that facilitates secure, seamless, and efficient online transactions for businesses across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. It allows merchants to accept a wide range of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, digital wallets, bank transfers, and local payment options, making it a versatile tool for both regional and global e-commerce.
It’s an ideal solution for businesses looking for a robust, secure, and flexible payment gateway, particularly in the MENA region. With a variety of payment integration options and a competitive fee structure, it provides businesses with a comprehensive solution to manage payments effectively, while also offering specialized support for local payment methods and currencies.
Notable features includes
Global Payment Acceptance: Supports multiple payment methods and currencies, including Visa, MasterCard, and regional payment options.
Localized Payments: Offers a wide variety of local payment methods popular in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), such as STC Pay, Fawry, and Mada, allowing businesses to cater to regional customers.
Fraud Prevention and Security: Utilizes advanced fraud detection systems and adheres to PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) to ensure secure transactions.
Recurring Billing: Provides options for subscription-based businesses to manage recurring payments and billing.
Multi-Currency Support: Supports payments in multiple currencies, making it easier for businesses to serve international customers.
Mobile Optimization: Fully optimized for mobile devices, providing an efficient and smooth payment experience for users on smartphones and tablets.
Flexible Integration Options: Includes a variety of API, hosted payment pages, and SDK options to integrate into websites and mobile apps.
Available Integration options are
API Integration: HyperPay provides a comprehensive API that can be easily integrated into custom websites or mobile applications. This allows for full control over the payment experience and customization to fit business needs.
Hosted Payment Pages: For businesses that prefer a simpler integration, HyperPay offers hosted payment pages that securely handle payment processing without the need for advanced technical expertise.
Plugins for E-Commerce Platforms: HyperPay provides plugins for popular e-commerce platforms such as WooCommerce, Magento, and PrestaShop, enabling quick and easy integration.
Mobile SDKs: For mobile app developers, HyperPay offers SDKs for iOS and Android, allowing seamless in-app payment integration.
Prices and plans offered by Hyperpay
Pricing structure varies depending on the type of business and the volume of transactions, but here’s an overview:
- Transaction Fees:
- Domestic Transactions: Typically between 2% and 3% per transaction, depending on the payment method and region.
- International Transactions: Fees may range from 3% to 4% for cross-border payments, depending on the currencies involved.
- Setup Fees:
- There are no upfront fees for setting up a HyperPay merchant account, making it an accessible option for businesses of all sizes.
- Monthly Fees:
- HyperPay typically charges a monthly fee for maintaining the payment gateway service, which can range from $10 to $50, depending on the business scale and payment volume.
- Other Fees:
- Currency Conversion Fee: Around 3% above the base exchange rate.
- Chargeback Fees: HyperPay imposes a fee for chargebacks, typically around $25 per chargeback case.
- Withdrawals: Withdrawal fees for transferring funds to a bank account can vary, usually between $5 and $20.
Skrill
Skrill is an online payment platform that enables businesses and consumers to make secure payments and money transfers across the globe. It offers a simple and fast way for merchants to accept payments in multiple currencies, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and Skrill’s own digital wallet. Skrill is known for its ease of use, low fees, and support for international transactions, making it an appealing option for businesses looking to scale globally.
Notable features are
Global Reach: Accepts payments in over 40 currencies from customers around the world.
Skrill Wallet: Allows users to store funds, send money, and make online purchases easily.
Payment Methods: Supports credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and local payment methods.
Low Transaction Fees: Offers competitive fees, especially for cross-border transactions.
Fraud Prevention: Implements industry-standard fraud protection tools to ensure secure transactions.
Recurring Billing: Allows businesses to set up subscription and recurring billing models.
Multi-Language Support: Available in various languages, making it easy for global customers to interact.
Available Payment Integration Options are
API Integration: Skrill offers a powerful REST API that allows developers to integrate payment processing into their websites or apps with full customization.
Hosted Payment Pages: Quick setup with pre-built, secure payment pages that businesses can link to for processing payments.
Shopping Cart Integration: Skrill integrates with popular e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce, Magento, and PrestaShop, making it easy to set up payment solutions for online stores.
Skrill Buttons: Add simple “Pay Now” buttons to your site or checkout page for a straightforward payment experience.
Mobile SDKs: For developers who want to offer in-app payment solutions, Skrill provides SDKs for iOS and Android apps.
Prices and plans
Skrill’s pricing varies depending on the country of operation, the type of transaction, and the volume of payments. Here’s a general comparison
Merchant Fees:
- Domestic Payments: Typically around 1.9% to 2.9% per transaction, depending on the country and currency.
- International Payments: Up to 3.99% for cross-border transactions.
- Withdrawal Fees: Skrill charges a fee of approximately 5.50% for withdrawing funds to a bank account, and a lower fee for withdrawals to Skrill accounts or using prepaid cards.
Skrill Wallet:
- Free to create an account, but there are fees for some services like sending money to non-Skrill users, and receiving international payments may incur additional charges.
- There may be additional charges for currency conversion, which typically ranges from 3.99% above the exchange rate.
Business Account Setup:
- No setup fees, but fees apply based on transaction volume and payment methods.
Skrill gateway offers flexible and cost-effective payment solutions for businesses of all sizes looking to accept payments online globally. However, it’s important to compare specific pricing based on the country and payment methods involved, as they may differ.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the best payment gateway for my e-commerce business?
Consider factors like security features, fees, transaction speed, support for multiple payment methods, ease of integration with your website, and whether it supports international transactions if you’re targeting global customers.
Are payment gateways safe to use?
Yes, most payment gateways comply with high standards of security, including PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard), ensuring that your customers’ data is protected during transactions. Always choose a trusted and reputable payment provider to ensure safe transactions.
What is a payment gateway and why is it important for my e-commerce website?
Payment gateway is a technology interface link that securely processes payments made by customers on your e-commerce website. It ensures safe transactions by encrypting sensitive information, such as credit card details, and facilitating the transfer of funds between your customer and your business.
How long does it take to integrate a payment gateway into my e-commerce website?
Payment gateway integration time depends on the platform you’re using and the complexity of the integration. For most e-commerce platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, the integration can take just a few hours. However, custom-built websites may take longer depending on the specific setup.
What are the costs associated with using a payment gateway in 2025?
The cost of using a payment gateway depend on factors such as transaction fees, setup fees, monthly fees, and any additional charges for international transactions. It’s important to compare the fee structures of different gateways to find the most cost-effective solution for your business.
