I&M Bank has announced the launch of the Mastercard World Elite Credit Card in Kenya, making it one of the newest banks in the region to offer World Elite status on a metal card to its high-value customers.
The card, developed in collaboration with Mastercard and unveiled on July 8, 2026, is designed for affluent professionals and globally mobile executives seeking premium travel, lifestyle, and financial benefits.
It carries no minimum spend requirement, meaning qualifying clients gain instant access to the full suite of benefits from day one.
I&M Bank Regional CEO, Kihara Maina, said the card reflects a shift in how Kenya’s affluent clients measure prestige.
“Kenya’s affluent professionals and global executives no longer measure prestige by what a card represents on paper, but by what experiences it unlocks in the world. The Mastercard World Elite Credit Card is our answer to that shift. It is engineered for those who travel often, shop and entertain widely, and expect their bank to move at the same pace as their ambitions,” he said.
Mastercard’s East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands Country Manager, Shehryar Ali, described the launch as more than a product rollout.
“This is far more than a product launch. It is a commitment to connecting Kenya’s most discerning consumers to their everyday passions, ensuring they have seamless, secure access to the same world-class privileges and priceless experiences available anywhere in the world,” he said.
Cardholders will enjoy unlimited global airport lounge access for themselves and a guest, fast-track airport services at select locations, a dedicated concierge for travel, dining, and lifestyle support, and comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
Beyond travel, the card also opens access to Mastercard’s Priceless platform, offering curated experiences across dining, sports, cultural events, and exclusive offers from global retail and hospitality partners.
On the security side, the card comes with advanced fraud monitoring, purchase protection, emergency services, and a dedicated World Elite support line.
The launch comes as Kenya’s high-net-worth population continues to grow, having expanded by 14 percent between 2015 and 2025, driving rising demand for premium financial products that combine global acceptance with elevated lifestyle benefits.
