Data-driven roadmap for the future of festive finance Visa

Sabbir Ahmed
Country Manager
Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan, Visa 

Festive spending in Bangladesh will continue to become more digital, inclusive, and data-driven. Cashless acceptance will expand deeper into tier-2 and tier-3 cities, and real-time capabilities will become standard. Ramadan will increasingly act as a catalyst, accelerating digital adoption across consumers, merchants, and financial institutions alike.

During this Ramadan, the nation’s payment landscape is undergoing a significant structural transformation. Sabbir Ahmed, Country Manager for Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan at Visa, explores the rapid transition from cash to digital channels. He highlights how evolving consumer preferences for contactless payments, e-commerce, and secure mobile transactions are reshaping the  economy across the country.

The Daily Star (TDS): With the holy month of Ramadan approaching, how has your bank observed a shift in consumer spending behaviour over the last few years?

Sabbir Ahmed (SA): Over the last few years, Ramadan spending in Bangladesh has become increasingly digital and convenience-led. We are seeing stronger growth in e-commerce, contactless payments, and card usage at grocery, fashion, and dining outlets, particularly in urban centres. The final ten days consistently see a sharp acceleration in digital transaction volumes.       

TDS: What trends are you seeing regarding the transition from cash to digital channels (Cards, Apps, MFS) for Iftar, Sehri, and Eid shopping?

SA: The shift from cash to digital is becoming more structural rather than seasonal. During Ramadan, we observe increased card-present transactions at supermarkets and lifestyle outlets. QR acceptance and contactless payments are gaining traction among SMEs. Younger consumers are using tokenised credentials and mobile-linked cards.

TDS: How is Visa collaborating with issuing banks and merchants this season to promote secure and smart spending for cardholders?

SA: This year, Visa collaborated with partner banks and merchants for the Visa Ramadan & Eid 2026 Spend & Win campaign. Visa card transactions across debit, credit, and prepaid make cardholders eligible for rewards.

TDS: How does Visa support interoperability between banks and MFS players to ensure seamless transactions during the Eid rush?

SA: Visa supports interoperability by enabling secure credential connectivity across banks, wallets, and digital platforms. Through tokenisation and strong authentication protocols, we help ensure seamless transactions even during peak Eid rush periods.

TDS: Are there Visa-enabled features that facilitate seamless digital Zakat payments or Eidi transfers during Ramadan?

SA: During Ramadan, digital Zakat and Eidi transfers increase significantly. Visa-enabled payment gateways allow secure payments to charity platforms, educational institutions, and family members. Our Ramadan partnerships help participating SME merchants through campaign visibility and digital offers.