Dashen Bank, Mastercard and Ethiopian Airlines' ShebaMiles loyalty program have jointly launched a Platinum co-branded Mastercard debit card in Ethiopia, combining digital payments with airline rewards and premium travel benefits into a single product.
The card targets frequent travelers, business executives, members of the diaspora and consumers who prefer digital payments. Issued by Dashen Bank and backed by Mastercard's global payments network, it connects routine spending to travel-focused rewards. Cardholders receive access to more than 1,600 airport lounges worldwide through Mastercard Airport Experiences, airport fast-track processing and global data roaming services.
The product comes in two formats to suit different preferences. A standard plastic card is available alongside a virtual version accessible through the Dashen Bank Super App, which has over two million active monthly users. The digital option is designed to speed up payment processes and give customers faster access to travel rewards.
Shehryar Ali, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for East Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands at Mastercard, said the card meets what modern travelers now expect from their payment solutions. "Modern travelers increasingly expect convenience, security, and added value from their payment cards," he said, adding that combining payments, loyalty and travel benefits into one card strengthens Ethiopia's premium payment ecosystem.
Dashen Bank Chief Executive Asfaw Alemu described the launch as a response to growing customer demand for banking products that integrate lifestyle benefits. He said the card gives clients more flexibility across both physical and digital payment options. For savers and consumers in Ethiopia, the card offers a way to earn travel rewards on everyday transactions while accessing premium airport and travel services globally.