Learn about 3 of the most innovative Rewards Programs in the Arab world

Most brands reward their loyal customers by creating loyalty programs aimed for the continuity of the client’s journey on one hand and increasing sales on the other. However, many of these brands still follow the traditional systems of punching cards or redeeming points for restricted options, which may limit the chances of achieving the goals from the program.

Meanwhile, some pioneering brands invested in innovative rewards programs in terms of ease of participation, points or miles accumulation and point’s redemption options and of course the integration of technology. 

Emirates Skywards program

Members in this program earn miles when they travel with Emirates Airlines, FlyNas or book with any of the partner airlines and hotels. That in addition to purchases on Mastercard and Visa credit cards offered by many banks in the United Arab Emirates such as Citibank and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB). For two years in a row (2018 and 2019) the program was presented with the “Excellence in Management” award at the Loyalty & Awards 2019 conference, for providing valuable rewards against their miles.

Why is the Emirates Skywards program innovative?

1. Rewards vary based on membership levels
   Loyalty programs that offer different levels of membership encourage members to invest more in the program and interact with it especially when these rewards are valuable. 

2. Variety in the Redeeming Options
   Unlike most airline rewards programs, redeeming options for Skywards members are not restricted for flights or hotel stays. Members can redeem their miles for vouchers or purchases at a wide range of shops and restaurants.

3. Technology Integration
   The program has its own mobile application where members can easily choose their redeeming options. The application brings the program closer to the members and allows them to stay updated on offers and other notifications. 

Find out more about the Emirates Skywards program. 

The Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program

The Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program is considered one of the most prestigious loyalty programs. With luxury hotel chains such as St. Regis and the Ritz-Carlton included, the program won several awards during 2018 and 2019 such as Best Hotel Loyalty Program at 2019 The Points Guy Awards. Although the Marriott Bonvoy program is not Arab based, however, any hotel chain customer can join this global program. 

Why is the Marriott Bonvoy program innovative?

1. Value of the Rewards
   It is a known fact that the global Hotel Chains affiliated with Marriott are one of the most luxurious and expensive hotels, and therefore, the “Free Nights” reward is considered of high value to most members.

2. Implementing Additional Benefits
   The Marriot Bonvoy program does not limit its members when redeeming points, as they can redeem their points for special offers or discounts at any of the participating Hotels all of which depend on membership tier. In addition to that, members benefit from free internet and online check-in. 

3. 24 - Customer Service
   In addition to the Hotel’s customer service, there is a dedicated team to serve members of the Rewards Program around the world, they aim to facilitate their transactions and answers their inquiries immediately.

The Privileges Club Rewards from Alshaya stores 

Alshaya is one of the largest retail groups in the Middle East, with more than 1000 brands under its umbrella. From cosmetic brands such as Vavavom, Estee Lauder and The Body Shop, to retail stores such as Zara and Victoria’s Secret, in addition to various cafes and restaurants such as Starbucks, Cheesecake Factory and many others; a complete list is available on the Alshaya website. Thus, it is not surprising that the group would invest in an innovative rewards program, nevertheless, this program is limited to the Gulf area in the exception of Saudi Arabia.

Read about Alshaya Group loyalty program “privileges club”

Why is the Privileges Club program innovative?

1. Valuable Rewards
   In its monthly draws the Privileges Club program rewards 11,000 Kuwaiti Dinar distributed for 20 members and up to 62,500 Kuwaiti Dinar every three months distributed over 9 members. 

2. The Integration of Technology
   Although the program started with a card that customers need to swipe at cashiers, however, a new mobile application was introduced that makes it easier for members to save their preferences and purchases to enter the draws and receive special offers or discounts. 

3. Advanced-Data Collection
   Privileges’ Club mobile application allows the group to collect essential data such as preferred brands, branches, spending habits, even preferable time of the shop. In turn, this information allows Alshaya Group to create customized offers for their members, thus adding up to the success of the program.