The world of shopping has changed dramatically in the past few years, and one of the biggest shifts has been the rise of “Buy Now, Pay Later” services. In the UAE and Saudi Arabia, one name has become synonymous with this trend—Tamara. Offering shoppers the ability to split their purchases into interest-free installments, Tamara has quickly gained popularity among customers who want flexibility and retailers who want to increase sales.

This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about Tamara—its founders, how it works, where you can use it both online and in-store, how to apply, and the key benefits of paying via Tamara.

The Story of Tamara

Tamara was founded in 2020 in Saudi Arabia by Abdulmajeed Alsukhan, Turki Bin Zarah, and Abdulmohsen Al Babtain. Their goal was simple: to create a payment solution that was modern, interest-free, and compliant with Islamic finance principles.

The company grew rapidly from its Riyadh headquarters, winning approval from regulators and expanding into the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Within a few years, Tamara became one of the leading fintech stories of the GCC, known for its promise of no interest, no late fees, and complete transparency.

How Tamara Works

At its core, Tamara fronts the cost of your purchase and then allows you to pay back the amount over time. It’s designed to be simple and shopper-friendly.

Payment Options

  • Split in Installments: Most shoppers can divide their purchase into 2, 3, or 4 equal payments. The first installment is usually paid at checkout, and the rest are scheduled automatically.

  • Pay in Full via Tamara: If you prefer, you can still pay the entire amount in one go but process it through Tamara’s checkout for additional perks like reminders and consolidated records.

Where It Works

  • Online: At checkout, select Tamara as your payment method.

  • In-Store: Ask the cashier to process your payment via Tamara. A QR code is generated, and you complete the payment instantly in the Tamara app.

Tamara makes shopping easier by removing the stress of upfront costs while ensuring you stay in control of your budget.

Retailers That Accept Tamara

One of Tamara’s biggest strengths is its wide range of retail partners across both the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Shoppers can use Tamara for fashion, electronics, groceries, luxury goods, and more.

In the UAE — Online

  • Noon: One of the region’s largest marketplaces, where Tamara can be used on electronics, fashion, beauty, and more.

  • Level Shoes: Luxury footwear and accessories store.

  • iSTYLE (Apple Premium Reseller): Buy Apple devices and accessories with Tamara.

  • V Perfumes: Perfumes, fragrances, and accessories.

  • Sharaf DG: Electronics and appliances.

In the UAE — In-Store

  • iSTYLE physical stores: Pay for Apple devices at the counter with Tamara.

  • Apparel Group stores: Select outlets such as Aldo, Skechers, and Tommy Hilfiger support Tamara payments.

In Saudi Arabia — Online

  • IKEA: Furniture, home essentials, and décor.

  • eXtra: Electronics, home appliances, and gadgets.

  • Nike.sa: Official Nike Saudi store.

  • Golden Scent: Perfumes, cosmetics, and beauty products.

  • Al Othaim Markets: Groceries and essentials.

In Saudi Arabia — In-Store

  • IKEA stores: Accepted at checkout.

  • eXtra showrooms: Pay directly at physical stores.

  • stc branches: Use Tamara for smartphones and devices for financing.

These lists are not exhaustive, but they demonstrate Tamara’s broad reach across categories and shopping experiences.

Categories to Explore with Tamara

Electronics and Mobiles

Whether you’re buying a new iPhone, a laptop for work, or a smart TV, Tamara lets you spread the cost without interest. This makes big-ticket items more affordable.

Home and Kitchen Appliances

From air fryers to refrigerators, appliances are often a major expense. Using Tamara for installment payments helps ease the burden while letting you enjoy your purchase immediately.

Fashion and Beauty

Luxury footwear, international fashion brands, and perfumes are popular with Tamara shoppers. With thousands of brand partners, fashion and beauty remain some of the most used categories.

Groceries and Essentials

In Saudi Arabia, Tamara’s partnerships with supermarkets make it possible to spread the cost of monthly essentials, a practical use case for families.

Sports and Outdoor Gear

Sports brands and outdoor equipment retailers also accept Tamara, making it easier to gear up for fitness or adventures.

How to Apply for Tamara

Applying for Tamara is simple and takes only a few minutes.

Step-by-Step Application

  1. Download the Tamara App: Available on iOS and Android.

  2. Register with Your Mobile Number: Your number should be registered in your name with your telecom provider.

  3. Provide Personal Information: ID number, date of birth, and email address.

  4. Verify Your Identity: In Saudi Arabia, this is done via the National Single Sign-On system. In the UAE, standard ID verification applies.

  5. Add a Payment Method: Debit cards, credit cards, and digital wallets are accepted.

  6. Get Approved: Once your account is verified, you’ll see your spending limit. Start with small purchases and build trust with timely repayments.

Using Tamara at Checkout

Online Purchases

  1. Add products to your cart.

  2. Select Tamara as your payment method.

  3. Choose whether to split your payment or pay in full.

  4. Complete the purchase.

In-Store Purchases

  1. Inform the cashier you want to pay with Tamara.

  2. A QR code will be displayed at checkout.

  3. Open your Tamara app, scan the code, and confirm the transaction.

Benefits of Paying with Tamara

Tamara’s popularity in the GCC is tied to the benefits it offers:

  1. Interest-Free Payments: Split your payments into 2, 3, or 4 installments without paying extra.

  2. Shariah-Compliant: Designed to meet Islamic finance principles.

  3. No Late Fees: Unlike many BNPL services, Tamara emphasizes transparency and no penalty charges.

  4. Flexibility: Pay online or in-store with the same account.

  5. Budget Management: Spread out large expenses without overburdening your monthly finances.

  6. Convenience: The app provides reminders, tracks your spending, and keeps your installments on schedule.

  7. Wide Acceptance: From luxury fashion to groceries, Tamara is available at thousands of retailers.

Responsible Shopping with Tamara

While Tamara offers convenience, it’s important to use it responsibly. Here are some tips:

  • Only use Tamara for items you genuinely need or plan to purchase.

  • Keep track of installment due dates and set reminders.

  • Avoid stacking too many ongoing installment plans at once.

  • Always ensure your payment card has a sufficient balance to avoid failed transactions.

By treating Tamara as a budgeting tool rather than extra credit, you can take full advantage of its benefits without overspending.

Read: The Rise of Tabby

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tamara fee-free?

Yes. Tamara does not charge late fees or interest. However, missed payments can limit your account privileges or reduce your spending limit.

Who can apply for Tamara?

Any shopper aged 18 or above with a valid mobile number, ID, and payment method can apply.

Can I use Tamara in physical stores?

Yes. Many partner retailers allow in-store payments via QR code through the Tamara app.

Does Tamara affect my credit score?

Tamara does not charge interest, but consistently late or missed payments may impact your credit profile in the long term.

What if I want to pay early?

You can usually pay off installments early within the Tamara app, giving you more flexibility.

Final Thoughts

Tamara has become a trusted payment partner for shoppers across the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Its combination of flexibility, transparency, and wide retailer acceptance makes it a valuable tool for managing expenses. Whether you’re buying electronics, stocking up on groceries, or shopping for fashion, Tamara gives you the power to enjoy your purchases today and pay over time—without hidden costs.

As with any financial tool, responsible use is key. By planning your purchases, tracking your due dates, and using Tamara strategically, you can make the most of this modern BNPL solution while staying firmly in control of your budget.