KARACHI: Pakistan-based fintech ABHI on Wednesday said it partnered with Saudi Arabia’s Alruqee Group to introduce an early salary access service for its employees, as it seeks to expand its footprint across the Gulf region.
Founded in Pakistan in 2021, ABHI started offering earned wage access services by allowing salaried employees to withdraw a portion of their wages before payday through employer-linked digital platforms.
The Gulf and Middle East have emerged as a key growth market for South Asian fintech firms, as governments and employers increasingly adopt digital payroll systems and financial wellness solutions for workers.
“The expectations of today’s workforce are evolving, and access to earned income should evolve with them,” ABHI CEO Omair Ansari was quoted as saying.
“At Abhi, we are enabling a more flexible and responsive payroll experience, one that benefits both employees and employers,” he added. “Our partnership with Alruqee Group is a step toward that future.”
The company has expanded operations into payroll solutions, SME financing, and cross-border financial services, with a growing focus on Gulf labor markets and expatriate workers.
“At Alruqee Group, we recognize that financial well-being plays a critical role in employee satisfaction and performance,” Alruqee Group Administration Manager Sami Ibrahim was quoted as saying.
“Through our partnership with Abhi, we are introducing a forward-thinking solution that empowers our employees with timely access to their earned income, while reinforcing our commitment to building a supportive and future-ready workplace.”
ABHI says it has partnered with more than 7,000 companies and has received backing and recognition from organizations including Hub71, Endeavor, the World Economic Forum and Mastercard’s Start Path program.
Last week, ABHI announced the launch of this early salary access service for employees of Saudi-based firm QBS.
Saudi Arabia has increasingly promoted digital financial inclusion and fintech expansion as part of its Vision 2030 economic diversification agenda, creating opportunities for regional financial technology companies.
